3-day Private Loire Castles Trip 2 Wine tastings by Mercedes

This 3-day private tour of the Loire Valley offers an immersive experience through France’s most famous castles, combined with two wine tastings and premium hotel stays. Guided by a professional driver and guide, this trip takes you to 7 iconic castles—including Château de Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Clos Luce, Villandry, and Chaumont—all with tickets included. The journey is designed for those who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and personalized exploration of the Loire’s highlights in just three days.

Starting from Paris, the tour is priced at a tiered rate, with guaranteed departures, making it a reliable choice. Accommodation at a luxurious 4-star Château-Hotel ensures a restful night after busy days of sightseeing. The inclusion of two wine tastings at local wineries adds a flavorful touch, making this experience ideal for lovers of history, architecture, and good wine alike. Travelers should be prepared for a busy itinerary and bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as the tour involves walking and outdoor visits.

Key Points

• Private guided tour covering 7 Loire Valley castles in 3 days, with tickets included.
• Two wine tastings at local family wineries, sampling at least 7 different wines.
• Luxury 4-star Château-Hotel accommodation at Domaine De La Tortinière, with breakfast included.
• Comfortable Mercedes vehicles, either E220 or Minivan, for small groups.
• The tour departs from Paris early in the morning and returns by late evening on the third day.
• Not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users, and no food or alcohol in the vehicle.

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From Paris to Château de Chambord and Blois

The journey begins early from Paris at 07:30, with a scenic 2.5-hour drive on the highway toward the Loire Valley. The first stop is Château de Chambord, famous for its French Renaissance architecture and expansive grounds. This castle is among the most popular in the region and offers an impressive sight for architecture and history enthusiasts. Visitors have the chance to admire the distinctive design and explore the grounds before moving on.

Next, the tour heads to Blois city for a lunch break, with local restaurant recommendations provided. After lunch, the focus shifts to Château Blois, once a residence of French kings. Notably, Joan of Arc visited this castle in 1429, adding historical depth to the visit. Inside, the guide helps explain the castle’s role in French history, making it accessible for history lovers.

Exploring the Château de Chenonceau and Its Gardens

On the second day, the tour visits Château de Chenonceau, known as the “ladies castle” for its association with influential women of France. The visit enjoys skip-the-line access, allowing more time to explore the remarkable architecture and gardens. The castle’s feminine history is highlighted by guides who emphasize its role in French cultural and historical narratives. After touring the castle, travelers have free time to stroll through its beautiful gardens, gaining a sense of serenity and beauty.

Discovering Amboise and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Home

Following Chenonceau, the group moves to Amboise, a grand 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII. The Château Royal d’Amboise is explored using the Histopad, which provides a digital guide explaining the history of each room, making the visit engaging and educational.

Shortly after, the trip continues to Clos Luce, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final three years. The Château Clos Luce features an attractive park dedicated to Leonardo, showcasing models and inventions inspired by the artist. This stop offers a mix of art, history, and innovation, appealing to a wide range of interests.

Villandry Castle and Its Vegetable Gardens

On day three, the tour heads to Villandry, celebrated for its famous vegetable gardens. The castle’s breathtaking gardens are a highlight, with visitors able to appreciate the intricate designs and horticultural artistry. This stop provides a peaceful contrast to the grand castles and offers excellent photo opportunities.

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Visiting Château de Chaumont and Its Medieval Legacy

Later on, travelers visit Château de Chaumont, founded in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 15th century by Charles I d’Amboise. The castle’s medieval architecture and history make it a compelling site for those interested in the region’s past. The guide explains the castle’s different phases of construction, emphasizing its significance in regional history.

Ending with a Final Wine Tasting and Return to Paris

The last activity involves a local winery visit, where participants enjoy wine tasting in a cave setting. Sampling at least 7 wines, the experience combines regional flavors with a relaxed atmosphere. Following the tasting, the group departs for Paris around 17:30, arriving back at the city by 20:30, completing a full and satisfying day of sightseeing.

Tour Logistics and Comfort

All accommodations are at a luxurious 4-star Château-Hotel, Domaine De La Tortinière, for two nights with breakfast included. The transport is in a Mercedes E220 for small groups or a Mercedes Minivan for larger parties, ensuring comfort during the long drives. The tour includes all tickets and taxes, as well as bottled water, so travelers can focus on enjoying the experience without extra costs.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking on uneven castle grounds and wear suitable clothes for outdoor visits. The tour does not permit food or alcohol in the vehicle, maintaining safety and cleanliness. The experience is not suitable for children under 6 or those in wheelchairs, due to the nature of castle visits and mobility considerations.

Why Choose This Loire Valley Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the most renowned castles, with guided explanations, skip-the-line access, and luxury accommodation. The inclusion of wine tastings adds a regional flavor, making it suitable for those eager to combine cultural sightseeing with tasting local wines. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace, perfect for visitors wanting a detailed yet comfortable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many castles are visited during the tour?
The tour visits 7 castles: Château de Chambord, Château Blois, Château de Chenonceau, Château Royal d’Amboise, Château Clos Luce, Villandry, and Château de Chaumont.

Are tickets included for the castle visits?
Yes, all castle tickets are included in the tour price, allowing skip-the-line access at Chenonceau and other sites.

What does the wine tasting involve?
Guests sample minimum 7 different wines at local family wineries, including red, rosé, and white varieties.

What is the accommodation like?
The trip stays in a luxurious 4-star Château-Hotel, Domaine De La Tortinière, with breakfast provided for two nights.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses Mercedes E220 or Mercedes Minivan, both offering comfortable seating for small groups on long drives.

Who is this tour suitable for?
It’s ideal for adults interested in history, architecture, and wine, but not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users.

How long is the drive from Paris?
The drive from Paris to the Loire Valley is about 2.5 hours, with the return journey taking approximately 3 hours on day three.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but restaurant recommendations are provided during the day.

What should I bring for the trip?
Travelers should pack comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor exploration and variable weather conditions.

When does the tour depart and return?
The tour departs from Paris at 07:30 on day one and returns around 20:30 on day three.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour follows a set itinerary with included stops and activities, designed for a small group with guaranteed departures. Customization options are not specified.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it is designed for small groups with Mercedes vehicles suited for 2-7 people.

This 3-day private Loire Castles trip balances castle architecture, historic sites, and local wine experiences, all delivered in a comfortable, guided format. It’s well-suited for travelers craving a detailed, intimate exploration of France’s most famed Loire landmarks, with the added pleasure of regional wines.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby