Transfer to Tours from Paris where your chauffeur guide will take you to your accommodation at the beautiful Chateau Jalesne . At the very heart of the Loire region, this chateau will be your base for the duration of your stay. It is perfectly situated to venture out and discover a new part of the region each day.
Choose from one-and two-bedroom suites with their own kitchen, ideal for a family. You will enjoy the heated pool, picnic area, bar, BBQ, moat, caves, salons, library, chapel and the terrace of the Chateau.
The owners of the chateau will meet you in the grand salon this evening with sparkling wines from the Ackerman vineyards, to explain the fascinating history of the chateau. A local wine specialist will introduce you to the wines of the Loire region accompanied by tasting plates finishing with a local sweet wine and a plate of pastries. The perfect introduction to the region.
Highlights
Today you will walk in the footsteps of giants. Discover the lovely town of Amboise, residence of Charles VIII and Francois I. Visit the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci in the chapel and the panoramic gardens along the Loire. Learn more about the genius of da Vinci by visiting the Clos Luce where you can see a display of some of his inventions, where young and old can see the display of the spectacular machines he invented.
Enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant in the city accompanied by the local wines of Chinon and Bourgeuil.
This afternoon enter another historical signature of the Loire; the troglodyte caves. These famous caves were dug into the limestone cliffs along the banks of the Loire River. Maison Bredif is the oldest family owned winery on the Vouvray appellation, their mile-long galleries and cellars date back to the 8th century. They have been making wines since 1893 and will share their Vouvrays and Chenins, sweet and dry, in the Rotonde in heart of the caves and then take your to the roof top terrace, over looking the Loire River, to taste their red, rosé and sparkling wines accompanied by local cheeses.
Returning to your chateau, you can spend the evening in neighbouring Saumur to stroll around the town in the early evening before a food and wine pairing dinner in a local restaurant.
Highlights
Today you will visit one of the most spectacular gardens in France at the Chateau de Villandry. This is the last Loire chateau built during the renaissance. It has a visit designed specifically for children, but children of all ages will enjoy getting lost, and found, in the Maze.
This afternoon you will stop in the pretty village of Bourgueil at Chateau de Miniere to taste their 100% Cabernet Franc wines from 10 to 100-year old vines where you will enjoy a customized gourmet experience in the vineyards, if weather permits, or in the Château chosen from their extensive wine list and menu.
Highlights
Today enjoy the surroundings of the Chateau de Jalesnes. Discover the private forest and local surroundings on one of the chateau bikes or follow one of the walking trails. Make your way to the village of Vernantes for lunch and then stock up at the local food and wine shops to enjoy a dinner or BBQ on the terrace of the chateau that very night.
Highlights
Today you will visit a renaissance jewel: The Chateau de Chenonceau. Its unique architecture and bridge make it one of the most original and iconic chateaux of the Loire Valley. King Henry II offered it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers.
This evening you will enjoy a gourmet dinner exclusively catered for you in the private salons of the chateau de Jalesnes.
Highlights
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