The vineyards of the Loire Valley cover 70,000 hectares, 52,000 of which are AOC and AOVDQS, and produce 4 million hectolitres of wine per year. It includes four major regions: the Nantes region, Anjou, Touraine and the Centre. The Loire and its tributaries influence this terroir which benefits from a temperate climate. The diversity of soils and grape varieties allows for a wide range of wines: dry, semi-dry, sweet or sweet whites, light reds, rosés and sparkling wines. Red grape varieties include Cabernet Franc, Gamay and Pinot Noir, while the whites are made from Chenin, Sauvignon and Melon. This diversity makes the Loire an emblematic and appreciated vineyard.

CHATEAU DE CHAMBORD

The Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of the French Renaissance, located in the Loire Valley region. Built between 1519 and 1547 during the reign of Francis I, it is a symbol of power and refinement. This imposing castle combines Italian and French influences, with intricate architecture marked by a central spiral double staircase, famous for its beauty and ingenious design. Chambord is surrounded by a vast park of 5,440 hectares, the largest enclosed park in Europe, once used as a royal hunting reserve. The castle is also home to many works of art and historical furniture. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it remains a must-see for history and architecture lovers.

CHATEAU D’AZAY LE RIDEAU

The Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is an elegant Renaissance castle, located in the Loire Valley, near Tours. Built in the early 16th century by financier Gilles Berthelot, it is a perfect example of the architecture of the time, harmoniously blending medieval style and Italian Renaissance influences. The castle stands on an island in the middle of the Indre River, surrounded by a landscaped park. Its façade, with its mullioned windows and slate roofs, is beautifully reflected in the water of the lake. Azay-le-Rideau is famous for its refinement, sculpted details and understated elegance. Classified as a historical monument, it embodies the spirit of the time and remains one of the jewels of French heritage.

THE ROYAL CASTLE OF AMBOISE

The Royal Castle of Amboise is an imposing castle located overlooking the Loire River, in Amboise, in the Loire Valley. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, but it was in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, under Charles VIII and Francis I, that it took its current form, with renovations influenced by the Renaissance. The castle is known for its architecture mixing medieval and Renaissance styles, including its terraces and majestic spiral staircase. It was a royal residence for several centuries and an important place of passage for the court of France. The castle also houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who lived in Amboise at the invitation of Francis I. Classified as a historical monument, it remains a symbol of royal power and the art of living of the time.

THE CHÂTEAU DU CLOS LUCÉ

The Château du Clos Lucé is a castle located in Amboise, in the Loire Valley, famous for having been the residence of Leonardo da Vinci from 1516 until his death in 1519. This 15th-century manor house, surrounded by a beautiful park, was laid out by King Francis I to accommodate the Italian artist. The Clos Lucé is a real place of memory, where you can discover Leonardo da Vinci's inventions and sketches through models and interactive exhibitions. The castle retains an intimate atmosphere and a special charm, with rooms furnished in the style of the time, a garden and a network of tunnels linking the castle to the castle of Amboise. Classified as a historical monument, the Clos Lucé is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts.

THE CATHEDRAL OF SAINT-GRATIEN

The Cathedral of Saint-Gatien is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture located in Tours, in the Loire Valley. Built between the twelfth and sixteenth centuries, it is dedicated to Saint Gatien, the first bishop of Tours. The cathedral stands out for its majestic façade, adorned with detailed sculptures, and its two imposing towers that rise to more than 65 meters. Inside, you can admire remarkable stained-glass windows dating from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, as well as a remarkable set of frescoes and chapels. Its architecture harmoniously combines the early Gothic style and the flamboyant Gothic. Classified as a historical monument, the Saint-Gatien cathedral remains a symbol of the city of Tours and a major place of worship in the region.

THE CATHEDRAL OF THE HOLY CROSS OF ORLÉANS

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross of Orléans is an emblematic religious building of the city of Orléans, located in the Loire Valley. In Gothic style, its construction began in the thirteenth century and continued until the seventeenth century. It is dedicated to the Holy Cross and is particularly known for its stained-glass windows from the thirteenth to the eighteenth centuries, which depict biblical scenes. Its imposing façade, flanked by two towers, features refined carved details and a large central rose window. The interior of the cathedral is large and bright, with magnificent chapels and high-quality sculptures. A symbol of the city, the cathedral is also an important place of pilgrimage, especially for celebrations related to Joan of Arc, who played a key role in the city's history.

MUSEUM OF THE BLIND

The Tank Museum is located in Saumur, in the Loire Valley, and is one of the largest museums in the world dedicated to armored vehicles. It houses an impressive collection of more than 800 vehicles, ranging from the first tanks of the First World War to modern models. The museum traces the history of armored vehicles through the ages, showcasing rare pieces and iconic vehicles used in major conflicts. Visitors can see tanks, transport vehicles, self-propelled guns and specialized vehicles, all accompanied by educational exhibits and military artifacts. Ranked as one of the most visited museums in France, the Tank Museum is a must-see for military history and technology enthusiasts.

PLUMEREAU SQUARE

Place Plumereau is one of the most picturesque and lively squares in the city of Tours, located in the historic district of Old Tours. Surrounded by half-timbered houses dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, this typical square offers a charming and authentic setting, with its colourful facades and small cobbled streets. It is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike, offering a friendly atmosphere thanks to its terraced cafes and restaurants. The square is also a great place to stroll and learn about the city's history while enjoying its lively atmosphere. Listed as a heritage site, the Place Plumereau is a real beating heart of Tours.

LE JARDIN BOTANIQUE DE TOURS

The Botanical Garden of Tours is a public garden located in the heart of the city, offering an oasis of greenery and tranquility. Created in the nineteenth century, this 3-hectare garden is a pleasant place for walking, ideal for lovers of nature and botany. It is home to a wide variety of plants, including rare and exotic species, divided into several thematic collections. The garden also has an area dedicated to medicinal plants, a rose garden and an arboretum. In addition to its rich flora, it offers breathtaking views of the Cher and is a perfect place for relaxing moments in the open air. The Botanical Garden of Tours is a peaceful and educational site, perfect for the curious and nature enthusiasts.

THE CITY OF TOURS

Tours is a city located in the centre-west of France, in the Centre-Val de Loire region, crossed by the Loire River. It is known for its rich historical heritage, including its medieval and Renaissance monuments. The city is a vibrant cultural and academic center, with iconic landmarks like the Saint-Gatien Cathedral, Place Plumereau, and Old Tours, home to charming half-timbered houses. Tours is also renowned for its gardens, such as the Botanical Garden, and its role in the region's viticulture. The town is an ideal starting point for exploring the Loire Valley, famous for its castles, as well as its culinary specialties and wine.