The Loire Valley is one of the most beloved destinations by tourists from all over the world for its enchanting landscapes, good wine and local culture. In 2000, the UNESCO Committee chose to include the Loire Valley and its Castles in the list of World Heritage Sites, highlighting the true value of this French region. Here, in fact, travelers can immerse themselves in nature, visit internationally renowned historical sites and enjoy a cup of excellent wine.

Loire Valley: The Origins of the Castles

There are more than three hundred castles scattered throughout the Loire Valley, which began to be built around the tenth century, first as defensive fortifications, then as residences of the nobility. The French kings indeed began to consider the Loire as a holiday area and the castles took on a renewed meaning. Among all, the most famous and visited are the castles of Amboise, of Villandry and the fortress of Chenonceau. During the French Revolution, however, the people's fury also unleashed on some of these enchanting structures, resulting in the theft of most of the treasures contained within these extraordinary palaces.

Today, the remaining castles are used for different purposes, particularly as private houses, while still guaranteeing the possibility of public visits, as tour destinations, and as hotels. The fairy-tale scenarios they offer have the power to captivate adults and children: a journey to discover the history of France, with that touch of magic typical of the world of fairy tales.

Loire Valley: an unforgettable wine

Another treasure of this enchanting French region are the vineyards, precious jewels at least as much as the castles. During your journey, you can tour landscapes of indescribable beauty, stopping then to sip a delicious cup of Vouvray or Chinon, accompanied by a cheese platter.

By traveling the Wine Road in the Loire Valley, it is possible to visit some of the most famous wineries in the country: here you will have a unique gastronomic experience, tasting the typical specialties and discovering the traditions of the local winemakers.

Loire Valley: 5 must-do things

The Loire Valley offers numerous attractions, here are the 5 must-do things:

• Visit the manor of Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci: in the castle park there are a series of inventions of the Tuscan genius at full scale and in working order, with which it is possible to interact: a dream for children!

• Dine in the delightful town of Blois: the historic center offers a wide choice of bistros where you can sample the most authentic cuisine of the Loire Valley
• Live for a day in the enchanted village of Gargilesse-Dampierre: here talented French artists such as George Sand and Claude Monet have come in search of inspiration; if you are a literature enthusiast you will have the chance to visit Sand's house, a cottage used as the setting for many of her novels
• Pamper yourself with a tasting of French wines, accompanied by a dish of local cheeses: the combination is sure to win you over
• Discover wonderful landscapes on your bicycle: on cyclando.com you find many routes in this dream place, you just have to choose the one that best suits your desires!

Ready to jump in the saddle?