A Private Shore Excursion From Nantes to Loire Valley Castles

This morning, we will come and pick you up at your Cruise Ship in Nantes. Meet your English speaking driver who will go over the itinerary and program of this day tour with you. Today we have selected unique experiences for you especially if you are interested in the Castles of the Loire.

Nantes being a bit too far to reach the most famous châteaux of the Loire such as Azay le Rideau or Chateau de Chambord, we have nonetheless included some great visits to chateaus that are rated 3*** on the Green Michelin Tourism Guide. Begin your full day private shore excursion, board your air conditioned vehicle and start to make your way to the Loire Valley and its castles.

Visit the highest castle of France 

Welcome to historic Anjou region of France that will be on your program today. After a short drive, reach the first Loire Valley Castle, Chateau de Brissac. The Palace of the Dukes of Brissac is the highest Chateau of France measuring around 48 meters high.

It is flanked by two massive medieval towers, with a Baroque type façade and Toscan style Pilasters - Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. There are no less than 204 rooms that cover 8000 square meters and that include a theater. The parc is also a delight to visit.

Enjoy a guided tour of the Chateau that is owned by the same family since the 16th century. 518 years later the descendants of René de Cossé still live in the Chateau - the Marquis and Marquise with their four children.

Then off to Angers, the Capital of Anjou

Your day trip moves along to Angers, the ancient Capital of one of the most emblematic regions of France: Anjou. Home to the Plantagenet dynasty - yes you know them - Henri II & Alienor of Aquitaine parents of Richard Lion Heart - the town of Angers was one of the most flourishing towns of Renaissance France. The city was built around the massive 13th century medieval fortress ordered by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) who wanted to affirm his military power.

If you do have some time to visit the fortress, do not miss the extraordinary Apocalypse Tapestry which is a masterpiece of medieval Art. In Angers, you will have free time to visit on your own and at your pace. It will be in Angers that you will also have some time for lunch so don't hesitate to ask your private guide for some recommendations.

End the day with the Visit of Chateau de Serrant

Your private tour of the Loire continues with the visit of Chateau de Serrant. It is probably one of the most well furnished castles of France. The castle has an amazing collection of furniture and works of Art that span over a time period of more than four centuries.

As you visit, discover magnificent apartments, a huge library, multiple rooms and a convivial atmosphere as the house has always been inhabited. After the visit of the Chateau, we will head back to Nantes and drop you off at your Cruise ship in Nantes Cruise port.

Please note that it is also possible for us to organize a Loire Valley wine tasting session as the Anjou area is also a wine region of France. Just let us know and we will adapt the tour to your wishes.