Loire valley is often addressed as “garden of France”. The Loire valley is full of vineyards, rolling green hills and flowers. These hills are dotted with thousands of chateaux. This is the charm and beauty of the calm paced life that has since centuries attracted many poets and writers. Some of the France’s finest masterpieces come from this region. The famous Cathedral of Chartres that was termed as Acropolis of France by Rodin is an astounding evidence of medieval architecture. The sculpture the 12’ as well as 13’ century stained glass works and the remarkable collection of antique musical instruments. The gabled houses, charming footbridges and the Old Town cobbled streets of the medieval period situated at the foot of cathedral are a must see spots. The castle of Maintenon and Anet are other places of interest.
Orleans
This was once a time second major city of France and is now boasts as the vinegar capital of the country. Joan of Arc liberated this city from British in 1429. Every year a celebration in commemoration of her exploits is celebrated in May; her place of residence during the period of ten-day Orleans siege can be visited. The Hotel Groslot, stone and brick Renaissance mansion that served as Town Hall as well as the Gothic Cathedral of St-Croix are other amazing features of the city. The castles of Sully-sur-Loire and Chamerolles are places that are worth visiting in the surrounding areas.
Bourges
Geographically it is situated at the heart of the France; the city is rich historical town of cobbled stone streets, Renaissance and medieval architecture, old ramparts and extraordinary St-Etienne’s Gothic Cathedral that controls the hilltop. Places to visit are George Sand’s House situated in Nohant, Noirlac Abbey and the chateaux o’ Meillant. Also, Sancerre and its popular white wines are worth paying visit. If you happen to visit in summer, make sure you have a stay in Bourges for Illuminated Nights. Some buildings and monuments in town come alive with light and music.
Blois
Blois is a famous castle that has been associated through many centuries to the past of Kings of France. Each Wednesday night spectacle is conducted at the castle for English speaking tourists. The places that will surely interest you are Chaumont-sur-Loire and the chateaux of Beauregard where International Festival of Parks and Gardens are held from mid-June till mid-October.
Chambord
This is the largest among all the castles in Loire valley. This elegant Renaissance structure was constructed by Francois I, and is surrounded by hunting preserve and an immense park that can be toured by a horse drawn carriage. Near to it, is the magnificent Chateaux of Cheverny that can be appreciated from ground or the captive balloons present on the site.
Ambioise/ Chenonceaux
Crowded under the shade of its significant royal castle, Chenonceaux is a beautiful town having white stone houses that are dated back from 15th century. The other places to visit is the former place of residence of Leonardo da Vinci, the Cbs Luce, the Chateaux of Chenonceau also referred as Ladies Castle have famous spectator’s gallery, constructed by great Queens of France, from where remarkable view of Cher River can be obtained.
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