8 DAYS ROYAL JOURNEY IN THE LOIRE VALLEY

Arrive in Paris and transfer to your hotel in the Loire Valley (approx. 230km, 3hrs).

Day at leisure to relax after your long flight.

Today, enjoy a special experience at Chateau de Chambord. This is the largest and one of the most impressive chateaux in the Loire Valley, a French Renaissance masterpiece that was built on the orders of Francois with a central double spiral staircase supposedly inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. Your private guided visit takes you on a discovery of the royal home of Francis I, including exclusive access to areas not opened to the public, where you can learn about the history of its unique architecture. End the tour with a glass of champagne on the terrace of the Castle, offering a breathtaking view of the French gardens.

The Loire Valley earns the title of France’s longest wine route, with more than 7000 producers and 85 appellations. Your private guided visit starts in a troglodyte cellar, typical of this region, where you will learn about the various stages of producing these fine wines, considered as French new world wines by some top sommeliers and oenology critics, before a session with a professional on the art of wine appreciation on an outdoor terrace with an amazing view over the Loire River. Taste Vouvray whites and Chinon reds paired with gastronomic local cheese and cold cuts.

Walk in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci who spent his final years in Clos Luce in the 16^th century. This chateau has a long history dating back to the 14^th century when it then belonged to the Amboise family, and is today a historic monument commemorating da Vinci’s life and work. Learn the history of Clos Luce and its relations with da Vinci as you roam the hallways with your audio-guide, and be sure to explore the new exhibition hall and garden after.

Enjoy a private visit of Amboise Castle, including special access to some secret spots! This chateau is the only one in the Loire Valley which has been continuously occupied by the French kings from the 15^th to 19^th centuries, and has hosted numerous literary, artistic, and historical figures, including Leonardo da Vinci who is buried at the château. Marvel at the architectural styles which transit from Gothic to Renaissance as you explore the castle, partly designed by Leonardo da Vinci, and soak up the panoramic views of the town and Loire River.

Chateau de Chenonceau is one of the most beautiful castles of the Loire Valley, spanning the River Cher. Its interesting history is defined by a succession of women who built, embellished and protected the chateau, and today contains a wonderful collection of furniture, tapestries and paintings.

A special private tour has been arranged in the beautiful gardens, starting in the Garden of Catherine de Medicis, where a castle guide will introduce you to history and architecture of the castle. Next, you will meet the official gardener, who will take you on an exclusive tour of two royal castles around Chateau de Chenonceau, where you will learn more about the women who played a key role in the histories.

Note: Due to COVID-19, only self-guided tours are permitted inside the chateau, included is an audio-guided visit of the interiors.

After lunch (on own expense), transfer to your next hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon to appreciate the hotel facilities and beautiful gardens.

In the morning, transfer to an exclusive truffle patch for a private visit with the producer. Experience a unique way of discovering the truffle growing process and understanding the truffle collection technique with the domain owner and his dogs. After the hunt, enjoy a truffle butter tasting paired with Chinon wines.

In the late afternoon, transfer to the banks of the Loire River and board your private traditional sailing boat. Listen to your captain share stories about the local fauna, flora and history as you sail along by charming villages on the banks of the river. As the sun sets, enjoy a gastronomic dinner prepared by your own chef with pairings of the local wines.

The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest surviving monastic cities from the Middle Ages and is today a Historic Monument as well as an important landmark in the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its ancient buildings span thirteen hectares and tell of a rich history over 900 years, from a monastery of four communities helmed by the Abbess of Fontevraud, to a prison in the nineteenth century and a cultural centre today. After the tour, we highly recommend an Abbey Cocktail at the beautiful contemporary bar of the 1* Michelin restaurant in the Abbey.

Next, make an exclusive visit to discover the biodynamic winery of a master is considered as “one of the finest wine producers in the entire Loire valley, and surely to become one of the top red wine domaines in Saumur” by wine advocate Robert Parker. The winemaker’s daughter will be your host – discover the vineyards and troglodyte cellars to learn about the ageing process before getting to sample the renowned wines.

Enjoy a leisurely last morning in the Loire Valley, and transfer to Paris (approx. 280km, 3hr 15min). Enjoy a day of leisure in the City of Light to do some retail therapy or enjoy an afternoon in one of the fantastic museums. Alternatively, we will be more than happy to arrange local experiences and assist with restaurant reservations.

After breakfast, your driver will take you to the airport for your departure flight.