Gardens of the Loire Valley

On arrival in Paris we will board our coach for a visit to Parc Floral de la Source located in Orleans. This magnificent 35 hectare landscaped garden is divided into themed areas including a dahlia, iris and rose gardens. Following our visit we will transfer to our hotel in Tours for our welcome meal together in a restaurant close to our hotel.

Following a leisurely breakfast we depart our hotel for a visit Chateau de Chenonceau which boasts two magnificent gardens in the French style, dedicated to Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.

After free time for lunch (under own arrangements) we travel to Chateau de Valmer overlooking the Vouvray vineyards for a guided tour by the owner of the formal terraces display flowers, roses, fruit, vegetables, statuary and fountains. We finish our visit with a tour of the wine cellars and included wine tasting.

Join us on our first visit today to Chateau de Rivau – encircling a 15th century turreted castle, the contemporary gardens are inspired by legend and folklore.

This afternoon we will visit Prieure de Saint Cosme, where a series of small gardens are linked by roses and dedicated to the medieval poet Pierre de Ronsard who lived here for 20 years.

Today is free to explore, sightsee, shop or enjoy your hotel facilities. Iain will be happy to advise and offer suggestions on how best to spend your free time!

This morning our first visit is to Chateau d’Amboise where Italianate gardens surround the fortress overlooking the Loire. We will enjoy some free time in Amboise for lunch at our leisure.

In the afternoon we will visit Le Conservatoire International des Parc et Jardins de Chaumont-sur-Loire. Overlooking the Loire River the doors of the chateau and park hosts the International Garden Festival from April to October.

Check out of our hotel this morning for a visit to Chateau de Villandry; arranged in three terraces, this world famous potttager gardens feature impressive displays of fruit, vegetables and flowers. The sumptuous chateau offers panoramic views of the colourful display below.

This afternoon join us on a visit to Chartes Cathedral, one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture before transferring onwards to the airport for our return home.