Châteaux of the Loire 2012, France
Châteaux of the Loire 2012
Discover the graceful elegance of the Loire Valley on our rail break
Experience the Chateaux of France
A sophisticated break that explores the history and beauty of France's renowned châteaux. The tour also offers guests the opportunity to visit the historic city of Tours, and the majestic Château d'Amboise where Mary, Queen of Scots, spent her childhood. In fact many of the places featured on the break are linked to famous historical figures including Fontevraud Abbey, the resting place of Richard the Lionheart. One of the greatest chateaux of France, the spectacular Château de Chenonceau is the highlight of the tour. The graceful bridges of the castle arch across the River Cher. Inside you will find a fine collection of paintings, tapestries and furniture whilst outside you can explore the castle's maze.
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Average Group size: |
35 |
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Transport Used: Train |
Tour highlights
- Guided tour of Tours
- Lunch in the Orangerie at the Chateau de Chenonceau
- Visit to Chinon
- Entrance to Fontevraud Abbey
- Entrance to Chateau de Chenonceau
- Visit to Amboise
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar to Paris. After crossing the city by coach we continue by train to the attractive city of Tours. We stay for four nights at the welcoming 3* Kyriad Tours Centre. This evening we sample some of the delicious local cuisine during dinner in a Tours restaurant. (D)
Today we travel south, to the historic town of Chinon. Located on the banks of the River Vienne, Chinon is surrounded by the verdant vineyards that provide the region's famous wines. Here we have some time to visit the spectacular château, or simply admire the pretty town. We continue on to Fontevraud where entrance and a guided tour of the impressive abbey are included. This historic building dates back to 1110 AD and is the last resting place of some of the great Plantagenets, such as Henry II, Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine. We return to Tours, and enjoy dinner together in a local restaurant. (B,D)
This morning we embark on a guided walking tour of Tours' main attractions. Set on the banks of the Loire, the city is a former capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We take in sights such as the ornate Town Hall and the magnificent Château Royal. We also see Le Vieux Tours, the city's medieval district, which is full of beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings built around the atmospheric Place Plumereau, a bustling square lined with cafés, boutiques and galleries. Your afternoon is free for you to explore. (B)
This morning we travel to Chenonceaux, where entrance to the renowned château is included. Arguably the loveliest of all the great castles, its graceful arches span the pretty River Cher. The château has much to offer visitors, renowned not only for its architecture and history but also for its Renaissance furniture, tapestries and paintings. Take a walk through the gardens with their manicured lawns and maze or wander round the recently restored 16th century farm on the estate.
After time to explore, we enjoy a sumptuous three-course lunch with wine at the château's Orangerie. Later this afternoon we travel the short distance to the charming town of Amboise, filled with picturesque half-timbered houses and dominated by the centuries-old Château d'Amboise. Perhaps you might like to explore the castle or admire the stunning views of the Loire Valley from its beautifully landscaped gardens. (B,L)
After breakfast we make our way to Tours station, where we join the TGV service to Paris. Here we connect with the Eurostar back to St Pancras International. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
| Departure date | Single Room Prices From | Twin Double Prices From | Rail Class | Holiday Ref |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 May 2012 | £685 | £555 | Standard | 2LOS02 |
| 23 Jun 2012 | £695 | £565 | Standard | 2LOS03 |
| 07 Jul 2012 | £685 | £555 | Standard | 2LOS04 |
| 08 Sep 2012 | £695 | £565 | Standard | 2LOS05 |
| 29 Sep 2012 | £695 | £565 | Standard | 2LOS06 |
All prices are per person and assume full occupancy of the room.
Booking info:
To book, call Teryn Holidays on 01904 734 250 quoting TravelRecipes
Terms and conditions:
Travel insurance is not included. Calls from a BT landline cost 5p per minute, mobile and other networks may vary. All prices are per person in UK £ based on two persons sharing a twin/double room. All tours are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Offers are applicable to new direct bookings only. Terms and conditions apply, and can be obtained on request. All tours are operated by and your resulting contract will be with Treyn holidays, a company wholly independent of Travel Recipes Limited.
