Two fabulous cities that must be on your list of places to visit while on
holiday in France for a family holiday or city break are
Tours and
Orleans. The pleasant climate in Tours made this city the King's choice for the capital of France back in the Middle Ages which explains why there are chateaux and other wonderful monuments dotted right across the Loire Valley. Ideally located just 1 hour by train from Paris, the cradle of the French Renaissance is today an open-air museum where just strolling through the old centre you will take you on a trip back in time thanks to its well-restored and beautifully kept half-timbered houses which line the streets and charming squares. Orleans, regional capital, and former Royal City is a authentic, fascinating city just the right size for an interesting long weekend or
city break full of great discoveries and experiences. Visit the many museums, monuments, galleries or just stroll along the pedestrian streets and marvel at the Renaissance buildings or wander along the banks of the Loire River and admire the wonderful views. Enjoy a drink in one of the many cafes or try some of the great culinary delights of the region.
Chinon, a smaller, more intimate town on the Vienne River, is equally interesting and packed with endless tourist attractions for those eager to learn everything about the town, or quiet spots where you can just soak up the charm of this historical place.
Visiting Central France on a family holiday or
city break, you cannot miss an outing to at least one of the world-famous Loire Valley castles. Take a trip back in time and marvel at impressive Renaissance masterpieces such as the Chateau of Chenonceau, built on an arched bridge over the river Cher and which was home to some of the most important women in French history such as Catherine de Medici and Louise Dupin. Chateau Chambord, the largest of the Loire Valley castles was a hunting lodge built for King Francis I in the 16th century and boasts 440 rooms and 84 staircases ! The fairy-tale Chateau of Amboise, built on a spur offering wonderful views of the Loire River, has wonderful stories to tell. The favourite residence of the French Kings in the 15th century, King Francis I grew up here in the early 16th century. Leonardo da Vinci was buried in the Saint Hubert chapel on the grounds and French folklore tells of the death of Charles VIII in 1498 after hitting his head on a doorframe in this chateau ! If Royal gardens are your cup of tea, then the Chateau de Villandry should be number one of your list of places to visit. The ornamental garden, kitchen garden, box hedge maze and water garden are enchanting and immaculately well-kept, a real treat for all ages. These castles can easily be visited from your
holiday accommodation in the fascinating city of Tours. The Odalys prestige residence in
Chinon, is the ideal choice for your holiday in Central France just minutes from the fabulous Royal Fortress of Chinon dating back to the 12th century and mostly built by English King Henry II.
