Highlights
Walk Through History and the Loire Valley of the Kings!
Rolling French Walking Through Famous Loire Wine Estates
Contrasting Ambiance of the Loire, Vienne, Cher and Indre Rivers and their Chateaux
Characterful, Independent Accommodation
Great Choice For First-time Walking Holiday in France
Specially Crafted Route Notes, Maps & GPX Files
Specially Crafted Route Notes, Maps & GPX Files
Itinerary
Step into the storybook landscapes of the Loire Valley on the 'Loire Vineyard Trails'—an 8-day self-guided walking trip ideal for travelers who delight in gentle rambles, gastronomy, and history. This private tour meanders through the heart of France’s famed valley of the kings, linking the grand chateaux of Amboise, Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry, and Chinon with the celebrated vineyards of Vouvray, Chinon, Saumur, and Anjou.
The walking is mostly easy, following a blend of old pathways, farm tracks, and forest trails that wind through rolling hills and past iconic historical monuments. Along the way, immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage—where Balzac found inspiration, Leonardo da Vinci spent his final days, and Joan of Arc shaped history. The countryside’s charm is matched only by its culinary delights, with opportunities to sample renowned wines and savor exquisite local cuisine.
Each evening, you’ll rest in comfortable accommodations, with all meals and transport thoughtfully arranged, making this tour package a breeze from start to finish. The itinerary invites leisure and discovery, whether you’re an aficionado of French culture or embarking on your first walking holiday in Europe.
The unique selling point of this trip is its seamless combination of world-class vineyards, magnificent chateaux, and leisurely walking—offering an experience that is both indulgent and accessible. For those who crave the finer things in life, the Loire Vineyard Trails tour is the perfect introduction to France’s historic heartland.
day 1Arrive Amboise
The old town boasts the still impressive remnants of what was a magnificent chateau as well as Le Clos Luce, a redbrick manor house that was the home of the great inventor Leonardo da Vinci for 3 years until his death in 1519. Chateau and Le Clos Luce (which incorporates a museum of models based on da Vinci’s designs) are both open to the public, each visit requiring approx. 1 hour. Overnight in Amboise, a picturesque town on the south bank of the Loire.
day 2Amboise to Chenonceau 14.2 km/8.8 miles, 3.5 h
day 3Chenonceau to Montbazon 27 km/16.7 miles, 6.5 h (Can be shortened)
day 4Montbazon to Azay-le-Rideau, 17-27.7 km/11-17 miles, 3.5-6 h
day 5Azay-le-Rideau to Chinon 27 km/16.7 miles, 7 h
day 6Chinon to Fontevraud 21 km/13 miles, 5 h
day 7Fontevraud to Saumur 20 km/12.5 miles, 5 h
day 8Arrangements end after breakfast
What's Included
Customer Reviews
We enjoyed the actual route very much. The written directions which we used extensively need to be reviewed. There were a number of very confusing directions which took a lot of time to sort out and find our way. We met other track hikers along our route with the same issues.
My itinerary was well planned and I think the experience was of good value for money. The variety of accommodations were welcoming and clean. I especially liked the GPX/GPS files on the daily routes. The communications were impeccable. My only request is that the trip package be provided a month prior to the start of the walk. I usually travel to the starting point about a week prior to the commencement of the walk to get over jet lag, etc.
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