France - The Loire Valley
"The Garden of France" is particularly beautiful in June when the gardens bloom in the charming villages and in the grounds of over 3000 historic chateaux.
"The Garden of France" is particularly beautiful in June when the gardens bloom in the charming villages and in the grounds of over 3000 historic chateaux.
The River Loire is the longest in France, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is home to over 3,000 chateaux each of which is unique making it a paradise for history and architecture enthusiasts. Charming villages set in the idyllic countryside of this region famed for its excellent wines makes for a memorable experience. Often referred to as “The Garden of France” the month of June is particularly beautiful as gardens bloom and present a stunning display of glorious colour.
ITINERARY
Tuesday - Very early morning departure to arrive Portsmouth in time to board the 07:45* ferry sailing to Ouistreham (Caen) - arrive 15:00. Drive across country and through the beautiful Normandy countryside passing the city of Le Mans to Amboise on the River Loire.
Wednesday - Morning visit to the magnificent Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the most photographed in the area. Discover its beautiful formal gardens, explore the breathtaking interior and visit the maze. Make a short stop in quaint Montrichard with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings. Arrive in Blois, the capital of the region, with free time to visit the Royal Palace or enjoy the House of magic with its 6 headed dragon automaton.
Thursday - Journey through the countryside of The Loire - past the imposing Chateau of Villandry, world renowned for its gardens, and continue to the city of Tours. Situated between the Cher and Loire Rivers, explore this historic city with its half-timbered houses, cathedral, gardens and street cafes. So many gorgeous sights you won't know which way to turn.
Friday - Just 10 mins drive from the hotel we shall visit Chateau du Clos Luce, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last years. Take time to discover the museum, house and gardens - fascinating and beautiful. Later into the old town centre of Ambois with its narrow streets, impressive castle and old bridge across the Loire. Finally this afternoon we shall call into a local vineyard for a tour and tasting - cheers!
Saturday - Drive to Caen with some time to explore the town of William the Conqueror . Well restored after the war it is an attractive place to visit with many fine buildings, monuments and museums. This afternoon we shall board the 16:30* ferry sailing to Portsmouth - arrive 21:30. Returning to point of departure late that night.
B=Breakfast, D=Dinner
Hotel Novotel, AMBOISE
A modern 4 star hotel situated on the outskirts of Amboise and affording panoramic views across the town. The stylish bedrooms are very well equipped and include private bathroom with free toiletries, hairdryer, air-con, TV with satellite channels, phone, safe, tea tray and free wifi. The restaurant is elegant and provides traditional French meals accompanied by wine, water and tea/coffee to follow.
There is a comfortable lounge area and bar in which to socialise, or you can move outside and enjoy the terrace and gardens. The outdoor swimming pool provides infinity views of the surrounding countryside and there are loungers and sunshades on which to relax. A lift serves all floors and room service is available.
5 Days / £845.00 Per Person SRS £170.00
Holiday Highlights: All coach travel, Return channel crossings, 4 nights hotel accommodation, Half board meals, Drinks with dinner, Admission to Chateau de Chenonceau, Admission to Chateau du Clos Luce, Vineyard tour & tasting.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Beaminster Area | Convenient local point in Beaminster to be advised |
| Blandford Area | Convenient local point in Blandford to be advised |
| Bournemouth Area | Convenient point in Bournemouth to be advised |
| Branksome Area | Convenient point in Branksome to be advised |
| Bridport Area | Convenient local point in Bridport to be advised |
| Britannia Inn | Britannia Inn, Fortuneswell, Portland |
| Charlestown | The Alexandra Inn, Chickerell Road, Charlestown |
| Chickerell | Bluebird Garage, Chickerell Road |
| Corfe Castle | Convenient point in Corfe Castle to be advised |
| Courtlands | Portland, Courtlands bus stop |
| Dorchester South Station | Dorchester South Station bus stop |
| Dorchester TOT | Top O'Town Car Park (by cafe), Dorchester |
| Easton | Easton Square, Portland |
| Ferndown Area | Convenient local point in Ferndown to be advised |
| Foords Corner | Foords Corner bus stop, Wyke Regis |
| Jestys Avenue | Bus stop end of Jestys Avenue on Littlemoor Road |
| Littlemead | Broadwey, Littlemead bus stop (Swan Inn) |
| Littlemoor Road Finches | Littlemoor Road, The Finches bus stop |
| Lodmoor Hill | Lodmoor Hill Bus Stop (near Post Office) |
| Lyme Regis | Convenient local point in Lyme Regis to be advised |
| Lyndale bus stop | Wyke Regis, Lyndale Bus Stop |
| Nottington | Broadwey, Nottington Corner bus stop |
| Poole Area | Convenient local point in Poole to be advised |
| Poundbury QMSE | Poundbury Queen Mother Square bus stop (Coach heading into Dorchester) |
| Radipole | Spa Hotel bus stop, Radipole |
| Redlands | Redlands, Opposite Garage |
| Ringwood Area | Convenient local point in Ringwood to be advised |
| Rodwell | Rodwell Traffic Lights, Rodwell Rd/Rodwell Ave |
| Sgt Bunn | St Bunn Bakery, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| Sherborne Area | Convenient local point in Sherborne to be advised |
| Southwell | Portland, Southwell, Opposite Eight Kings Inn |
| St Edmunds Church | St Edmunds Church, Lanehouse Rocks Road |
| St Johns Church | Weymouth, St Johns Church, outside Dentist |
| St Nicholas Church | Southlands Road bus stop on Buxton Road, Weymouth (former St Nicholas Church) |
| Sturminster Newton Area | Convenient point in Stur. Newton to be advised |
| Swanage Area | Convenient local point in Swanage to be advised |
| To be advised | To be advised - Approx. 2 weeks before travel |
| Upton Area | Convenient local point in Upton to be advised |
| Value House | Value House Car Park |
| Victoria Square | Victoria Square bus stop, Portland |
| Wareham Area | Convenient local point in Wareham to be advised |
| Westwey Road | Westwey Rd, Magistrates Court, Weymouth |
| Weymouth Bluebird | Weymouth, Outside Bluebird Office, K1 bus stop |
| Wimborne Area | Convenient local point in Wimborne to be advised |
| Wool Area | Convenient local point in Wool to be advised |
| Wyke Smuggler | Smugglers Inn, Wyke Regis |
| Yeovil Area | Convenient local point in Yeovil to be advised |
| From Price | Book Now | Call Back | Telephone | Favourites |
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