Loire Valley: Walks, Wine & Chateaux

A gentle walking trip through the Loire Valley, where the walking is really an excuse to move between châteaux, vineyards and quiet countryside at a human pace. You are based for the week rather than living out of a suitcase every night.

You stay in a chateau near Tours and a country manor in the village of Beaumont-en-Véron, both good bases for exploring the region known as the Garden of France. Days mix walking routes with visits to some of the valley's grand houses and time with local winemakers.

It suits people who want culture and wine alongside their walking, rather than a demanding hiking trip. The pace is easy and the focus is as much on food, wine and history as on distance covered.

What you'll do

• Walk sections of the Loire Valley countryside between Tours and Beaumont-en-Véron
• Visit Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried
• See Chenonceau, the Renaissance château built across the Cher river
• Tour local vineyards and meet the producers behind the wines
• Stay in a chateau near Tours and a country manor in Beaumont-en-Véron
• Sample regional wines with the people who make them