- Loire Valley
Where?
Located in the middle stretch of the Loire river in central France, the area of the Loire Valley comprises about 800 square kilometers. It is referred to as the Cradle of the French and the Garden of France due to the abundance of vineyards, fruit orchards such as cherries and artichoke and asparagus fields, which line the banks of the river.
Weather
The climate is favourable most of the year, the river often acting as a demarcation between France’s Northern and Southern climate. Minimum temperature can be as low as 2° in the winter months and in summer months can range between 21° and 24°.
Best time to visit
The climate can be cool with springtime frost while the wine harvest months may have rain, but they are good times to visit. The best time is in summer –July and August when the temperatures are warmer with cool breeze because of the Atlantic influence.
Must See Must Do!
Notable for its historic towns, architecture and wines, the valley has been added to the list of World heritage sites in 2009 by UNESCO. The architectural heritage in the valley is famous, especially the Chateaux, or the castles such as Chateau d’Amboise, Chateau de Chenonceau, Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Villandry etc and their spectacular gardens are truly a must visit . There are more than 300 castles, most of them a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture and many built on top of hills. You can take a wine tour at Bouvet- Ladoubay or get an aerial tour over Amboise through a hot air balloon ride, the incredible views will want you hanging in there forever. This will surely make one open their hearts to an unending sky of dreams. For those who would like to have a sporty trip, traverse the valley and its countryside by bicycle, passing through adorable towns, copious historical sites and scenic paths.
Shop For
Needless to say, a bottle of local wine should be on your shopping list. Other souvenirs like Faience pottery, wicker baskets and other hand made goods are popular.
Eat Here
The valley is one of the world’s well-known areas of wine production and includes several French wine regions situated along the river. Loire wines tend to exhibit a characteristic fruitiness with fresh, crisp flavors, so there’s nothing like experiencing a wine tour and tasting some of the finest French wines. Goat cheese and a box of pralines are also some things that you can try.
