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   A guide to the Loire Valley and its Chateaux

We hope, through the pages of this Loire Valley Guide, to convey to you the diverse delights of this beautiful part of France. Tourism is 'central' to this region's economy. There are so many places to visit and things to do in the  Loire Valley and the region of Centre that once you have sampled the 'experience' you'll want to return time and time again. We include a list of the major chateau of the Loire Valley plus the towns and cities of greatest interest.

The term 'Loire valley' if used correctly could refer to an area of over 1000km as this is the length of the river from its source in the springs on the side of Mont Gerbier de Jonc in the southern Cevennes hills within the department of the Ardeche to its destination on the Atlantic coast at Nantes. It has however become synonymous with the area along the river Loire between Sully-sur-Loire in Loiret  and Chalonnes-sur-Loire in Maine-et -Loire a distance of 280km. This became formalised with its inclusion on the list of world heritage sites in November 2000. It also takes in the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park and the park at Chateau de Chambord.


The Loire Valley, (see map) ;or more specifically Val de Loire the UNESCO world heritage site is an area of diverse attractions and landscapes that today make it one of the most popular places for tourists in the whole of France. Probably best known for its architectural heritage, most famously its chateaux, it is also blessed with other fine examples in its historic towns such as Amboise, Blois, Chinon, Orléans, Saumur, and Tours. The Loire Valley (Val de Loire) is also known as the Garden of France and the Cradle of the French Language.
 It has benefited throughout history from its popularity with the French Royal Families who have left a wonderful legacy in the form of its many chateaux, gardens and parks.

  
It was their influence and the areas natural beauty that made UNESCO designate a large stretch of the river and its monuments a world heritage site.


 Enjoy browsing our website, which contains a comprehensive chateaux guide plus guide to the Centre/Val de Loire region as well as other tourist information. If you are touring in the Loire Valley let us help with your planning.

There is also a  list of houses, gites and chateaux to rent within the Loire Valley -- we hope it leads you to your very own unique --- Loire Valley experience!         

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