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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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