Day excursions

We will start our day with Acco Dispo by visiting the French Gardens of the Chateau of Villandry, that makes it one of the most beautiful gardens in France. It is divided in 3 patios: the 1st one is a mix of vegetables, fruit trees and vines, the 2nd one is made of sculpted bushes, and the last one is a water garden. Then, we will visit the Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau, its elegant facades are like a jewel trapped between sky and river. You will discover its 500 years old framework, as well as furniture and tapestries from different periods, in the living rooms. After the lunch break, we will continue our memorable day by visiting the Chateau of Chenonceau, also known as the « Ladies’ Chateau » which was embellished by famous women, such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici. This elegant structure built on the river will mesmerize you with its unique Renaissance architecture, furniture and gardens that will make you daydream. We will finish our excursion by visiting the Royal Chateau of Amboise, which was Francis the 1st’s main residence. With its Gothic and Renaissance styles, the chateau will make you fall in love its panoramic view on the valley. And you must not forget about the St. Hubert’s chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci rests in peace.

VinoLoire has been offering wine tours in the Loire Valley since 2016. Your professional guide will share their wine knowledge, take you on personal tours of vineyards, caves and wineries, and answer your questions. This full day wine tour is a great introduction to the exceptional diversity of Loire Valley wines with a visit to 3 wineries, including a gastronomic 3-course Pic-Nic made from local farm to table products. Program 9:00 am: Pick up at the tourist office of Tours. Transport in a comfortable minivan. Visit a Family Wine Estate in Vouvray First stop in a vineyard in Vouvray : introduction to ‘terroir’ and making wine Visit of a rock-hewn cellar (several kilometers long) Tasting of different white wines typical from Vouvray (dry, half-dry, sparkling…) Pairing with local cheeses Visit a Bourgueil Wine Estate, including lunch Visit around the estate and vineyards Tasting of a wide range of white, red, sparkling wines from different terroirs Gastronomic 3-course pic-nic “farm to table” style lunch, with a 0 kilometer philosophy of a green Michelin starred chef A Great and Unique Visit in Chinon Visit an organic wine estate Discover a very original cellar dug by the winemaker himself over 30 years! Large tasting of red wines Pairing with local charcuteries (rillettes, saucisson sec…) Around 6:00 pm: Drop off at the tourist office.

We will start our day with Acco Dispo by visiting the Chateau of Langeais, the oldest forteress of the Loire Valley with its 10th century donjon (keep). Its main facade still has medieval characteristics yet, its opposite part has been renovated in the 16th century, which gives it a Renaissance charm. In 1491, Charles the 7th and Anne of Brittany’s marriage signed the annexation of the Duchy to French kingdom. A collection of tapestry, furniture and objects from the 15th century awaits you there. We will cross over the Loire river to go to the Chateau of Villandry, known for its French gardens that makes it one of the most beautiful garden in France. It is divided in 3 patios: the 1st one is a mix of vegetables, fruit trees and vines, the 2nd one is made of sculpted bushes, and the last one is a water garden. After the lunch break in Villandry, we will go towards the Chateau of Ussé - known as the "Sleeping Beauty’s Castle”, which inspired Charles Perrault. This property is a combination between Gothic and Renaissance architectures, as well as an expansion done in Classic style. We will finish our day with the visit of the Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau, its elegant facades are like a jewel trapped between sky and river. You will discover its 500 years old framework, as well as furniture and tapestries from different periods, in the living rooms.

Whether you're a lover of heritage, nature or simply looking for an original getaway, this day promises to be a real trip back in time! 9:15 Departing from the Tourist Office, treat yourself to a magical day on board a comfortable minibus, exploring four of the Loire Valley's most fascinating gems: Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry, Langeais and Ussé. Let yourself be seduced by... ... the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, a fairytale castle set in lush greenery. Its Renaissance architecture and gardens will transport you back in time, while offering exceptional panoramic views. ... the Château and gardens of Villandry, renowned for its sumptuous formal gardens. Each flowerbed and avenue of greenery tells a story, and you'll be amazed by the precision and elegance of this unique place. Lunch at the Château de Villandry restaurant. Then off to... ... the Château d'Ussé, a veritable fairytale castle that inspired the story of Sleeping Beauty. Its turrets, gardens and magical atmosphere will have you dreaming of princes and princesses. ... the Château de Langeais, a medieval fortress that plunges you into the history of royalty. Its imposing towers and architecture will take you back in time, with fascinating stories of royal marriages and court intrigues. 17:45 Return to Tours by minibus. End of the tour. This tour is available on Mondays and Fridays from April to November. It can be combined with :  Royal Day Renaissance Day Depending on the minibus schedule, the excursion programme may be subject to change. Departures are guaranteed from 4 people, a refund will be made if the number is not reached.