THE LOIRE VALLEY If Paris is on your itinerary, a diversion to the Loire Valley is a natural addition. It’s a one-hour high-speed TGV train ride to Tours, where you can rent a car. Stay in one of the towns or a chateau in the country. Try a couple of nights at Hotel Château De Chissay, an authentic Renaissance castle transformed into a four-star hotel in 1986. Castles are the main attraction, with dozens of them within a 50-mile stretch, each one more beautiful than the last. Don’t miss some of the most renowned castles, such as Chambord, Chenonceau, and Villandry. You may want to sign up for a customized luxury excursion
that emphasizes the Loire Valley’s UNESCO-listed landscapes, elegant châteaux, and world-class vineyards. Connect with off-the- beaten-path activities, such as hot air balloon rides, private vineyard tours, and access to local markets. Enjoy private wine tastings under the tutelage of venerable cellar masters. In the markets and cafes, you’ll find Loire specialties for a unique gastronomic experience, such as white wine, mushrooms, and goat cheese. Allow at least 3-5 days to explore the Loire Valley. Climate-wise, it’s usually more bearable than Provence in the summer months and may seem chilly in the fall.
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