In the heart of the Loire Valley, Château Touraine enjoys a picturesque setting on the edge of a small village in the Indre-et-Loire department. Near the Indre River, the traditional village is home to a couple of restaurants and a train station with departures to Loches and Tours.
By the banks of the Loire, the vibrant city of Tours (18km) is rich in medieval architecture, bustling markets and a dynamic food scene – perfect for a day trip spent wandering cobbled streets and riverside promenades, soaking up the local culture.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy along the Loire River. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the river is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, offering scenic routes past historic towns and rolling vineyards. Cyclists are equally well catered for, with well-marked routes forming part of the renowned Loire à Vélo trail.
This is also an ideal base from which to discover the Loire Valley’s most iconic grand châteaux. Within easy reach are the elegant gardens and water features of Château de Villandry (35km), the fairy-tale beauty of Château de Chenonceau (27km) arching over the River Cher, and the royal residence of Château d’Amboise (28km), steeped in Renaissance history. Each castle offers a unique window into France’s regal past, from grand halls to manicured grounds.
Further south lies the enchanting town of Loches (25km), a medieval gem with a beautifully preserved old quarter, royal château and a lively weekly market. Its quiet streets and historic ambience make it a rewarding detour and a testament to the region’s rich heritage.
For oenophiles, the Loire Valley is a dream. The region’s vineyards produce some of France’s finest wines, from the Chenin Blanc grapes of Vouvray and Cabernet Franc of Chinon to the sparkling white wine of Saumur. Wine-tasting tours are widely available, offering the chance to sample local varietals and meet the passionate winemakers behind the labels. Whether in a centuries-old cellar or a modern boutique estate, each glass tells a story of terroir and tradition.
The Region
A region doesn’t get to be called “The Garden of France” without being pretty special, and the Loire Valley is just as luscious and beautiful as its nickname would suggest. There’s countless acres of beautiful woods, vineyards and farmland that produce some of France’s revered ingredients and delicacies, and a wealth of history and beautiful architecture that demands and rewards exploration. Whether you’re heading off with the family, friends, or both, our fantastic portfolio of Loire Valley villas and chateaux means you’ll find fantastic, comfortable and quirky accommodation no matter your preferences.
