Chateaux Of The Loire Walk - Short Break

Walking information

Walks on this holiday are off-the-beaten-track, gentle and flat routes. There are no tough climbs on this route. Walk through vineyards, villages and along rivers.

Day 1 : Arrival in Blois

Explore the cobbled streets, arcaded squares and impressive chateau of this pretty riverside town before dinner.
You stay at Hotel Le Monarque (Breakfast included)

Day 2: Blois / Chambord to Chitenay (19km/11.8mi)

Transfer to Chambord, the largest Chateau of the Loire Valley. Then walk through the estate's forest before heading across open countryside via sleepy wine villages. Transfer to your hotel in Chitenay. Dinner is included for the next 2 nights.
You stay at Auberge du Centre (Breakfast and evening meal included)

Day 3: Chitenay to Chenonceaux (16km/9.9mi)

Today a 20-minute transfer takes you to Bourre, where you'll begin your walk alongside the River Cher. You have the chance to visit the Caves des Roches - or 'mushroom caves' - on the way, a vast network of underground caves and tunnels which were formerly limestone mines. You'll also pass La Magnanerie de Bourre, the site of traditional cave dwellings and a silk-worm farm. Continue your walk alongside the River Cher to Montrichard, a traditional French town with its own riverside beach and a number of good restaurants to choose from for lunch, before heading along the GR41 to Chenonceaux.

Then, you can marvel at the impressive Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the best-known of the Loire chateaux with its iconic arches over the river. This fairytale chateau has seen some famous figures from history, notably Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de'Medici - rivals for Henry II's affections - and Mary, Queen of Scots.
You stay at Hotel de la Roseraie (Breakfast included)

Day 4: Chenonceaux to Amboise (19km/11.8mi)

We take you from Chenonceaux along the Cher river and through quaint villages before to continue through the majestic forest of Amboise. Continue your walk until you arrive in the bustling market town of Amboise.

Amboise has a charming mediaeval feel, with historical links to the French Royal Family and also connections to Leonardo da Vinci who spent his last few years at Clos Luce, now a museum which houses displays of some of the artist's original work. Da Vinci's tomb is housed in the majestic Chateau d'Amboise which also hosts the impressive Son et Lumiere display. Amboise offers plenty of restaurants and cafes in which to relax and sample the local wines and produce.
You stay at Hotel Clos d'Amboise (Breakfast included)

Day 5 : Leave Amboise