Day excursions

Discover the Valley of the Kings by electric bike! Between lush forests and memorable castles, you are not about to forget this day. Full day on an electric bike in Chambord Park!   Program:  2:00 pm: Start at the Tourist Office in Tours and get into our minivan to Chateau de Villesavin.   The “discovery of the Valley of the Kings” day can begin!   What better way to discover the castles of the Loire than an electric bike tour. You will visit two magnificent castles: a charming family property and the prestigious Château de Chambord. Then have lunch in Chambord Park, and stroll through the estate, which was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. In e-bike mode, your perception changes and this excursion will allow you to enjoy this magnificent region “à la française!”.    10:15 am: Departing from a beautiful family chateau where we will taste local products later in the day, take the time to discover the charming French countryside on this e-bike ride during 15 miles.   Cross with your guide the monumental forest of Chambord, a veritable green lung of 13.000 acres enclosed by 20 miles of walls, unique in Europe. After about 35 minutes, you will finally see the sumptuous Château de Chambord, symbol of the French Renaissance in the Loire Valley.   11:00 am: Start of the guided tour of Chambord, your guide will show you the emblematic rooms of this castle still shrouded in mystery. A free time will allow you to walk where you want and review the pieces that you have preferred.   12:30 pm: For lunch, your guide will show you the different options around the Château de Chambord: restaurant, crêpes, burgers, sandwichs…   2:00 pm: Return to Château de Villesavin, “Chambord site hut” built by Jean le Breton, minister of François 1er, and supervisor of the works of the Château de Chambord.   2:45 pm: Visit of the interior of this charming little family castle, property since the 1930s and still the main home of the Count and Countess. You will also have free time to stroll around the estate and visit the various points of interest of the property (wedding museum, dovecote, small farm, etc.)   3:30 pm: Bucolic snack under the linden tree planted in 1900 with local produce such as apple juice, strawberries and biscuits from the Chambord biscuit factory.   6:00pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

The day will begin with a visit to Château de Chenonceau, a historic gem spanning the Cher River, surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers. You will then have free time for lunch in Amboise (not included), before visiting the Clos Lucé, the residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Finally, you'll explore the prestigious Château Royal d'Amboise, a royal retreat and the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.   Our team will accompany you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.   After this fascinating day, Val de Loire Travel will return you to your departure point (your accomodation or the Tourist Office).

Discover the Loire Valley and visit its 2 most prestigious castles in one great day: impressive Château de Chambord and stunning Château de Chenonceau. Learn about the intimate little secrets of the French Kings who once lived there. Enjoy off-the-crowd panoramic views thanks to your local guide, benefit from wealth of thrilling genuine details and funny anecdotes and make the most of this exciting day. Program: 9.30am: Departure from Tours. Meet your friendly guide in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours (just in front of the train station). Everybody's here? Let’s start the day! 9:30am: Start in front of the Tourist Office in the city of Tours, and get into our minivan, off to Chenonceau! Next step is Château de Chenonceau! On the way, get a good look at lovely privately owned châteaux but also other must-see castles of Loire Valley such as: Cheverny, Chaumont, Amboise, Montrichard... Chenonceau: this is the most visited historical monument in France after Château de Versailles. Admire this stunning chateau and its unique gallery, built on a bridge across the Cher River. With your guide, stroll through the gorgeously-manicured gardens à la Française named after the famous ladies who lived there: "Catherine de Médicis" and "Diane de Poitiers". Once inside, take your time to appreciate the refined architecture and feminine influence that prevails in each room of this renowned chateau, all decorated with beautiful antiques and the most divine fresh flower arrangements. The kitchens, the Queen bedroom, the Gallery... your tour guide will show you all the beautiful rooms of this incredible place. Lunch: Free time More than a chateau, this work of art is a glorious historical place that will take you to the heart of the Loire Valley and the Renaissance era. Your guide will make this trip back in time a fun and captivating experience. He will tell you everything about the history of the castle, built by the famous King François 1er. Unforgettable! Once inside, your guide will select for you the most emblematic rooms to visit: the double helix staircase, the chapel, the terrace...He will also share with you memorable anecdotes and point at hidden details of interest and breathtaking views of the château. So get ready to travel back in time of French Renaissance! After this exceptional visit, your tour-guide will advise you some spots to get a impressive view of the chateau. A spectacular day you will never forget. 5.30pm: Back to the Tourist Office in Tours

We will start our day 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.