The many charms of the Loire Region
Once the stamping ground of French aristocrats, the Loire region is brimming with patrician mansions like Musée Balzac or Le Clos Lucé, former home to Leonardo da Vinci. A UNESCO Heritage Site, the Royal Valley is dotted with the castles and fortresses of royalty, as well as those of many noblemen who followed suit. The majestic Château de Chenonceau doubles up as a bridge, the gargantuan Château de Chambord offers activities for all the family, while Château de Villandry boasts a breathtaking ornamental garden. The Maison de la Magie and the ZooParc de Beauval eagerly await young visitors, while the École Nationale d'Équitation offers a tour of the grounds and several horse shows throughout the year. For family holiday rentals by the seaside, choose a residence or mobile home campsite on the Atlantic Coast or even on Ile d’Oleron. If motor racing is your thing residence in Le Mans is the ideal choice to visit the famous race circuit where the Le Mans 24 hour-race takes place.
Authentic cuisine from the Loire Region
No holiday in France would be complete without a taste of the Loire's most sought-after gastronomical treats. When you're feeling peckish, try the delicious cushion-shaped filled pastry that locals call fouée. For a heartier meal, give the local bream or pikeperch a go, especially if it's smothered in the mouth-watering sauce the locals call beurre blanc. The woodland is brimming with duck, quail, pheasant and rabbit, which the locals like to pair with Chenin, Sauvignon blanc, or Melon de Bourgogne. But if you'd like to try fresh Loire venison and other game, you would be advised to pair it with a local Gamay or Pinot Noir. With a choice of food markets including the Sunday market in Amboise and the medieval market at the Joan of Arc festival, you’ll find plenty of tasty local delights to take back and enjoy while relaxing in your holiday rental