Rivers and Chateaux of the Loire Walk

Day-by-day itinerary

Walking information

Mainly flat walking along riverside paths and through open fields and vineyards. Much of the route follows waymarked GRs. Good views with not too much effort!

Day 1 Arrive at Chaumont

Arrive at your riverside hotel in Chaumont where there's a lovely pool if you fancy a dip. (Staying at Hostellerie du Chateau, Half Board)

Day 2 Chaumont to Chenonceaux 15km/9.5mi/3hr

Today a 20-minute transfer takes you to Bourre, before walking alongside the River Cher. En route you have the opportunity to visit the Cave des Roches, an underground town previously sculpted in a limestone quarry, and La Magnanerie de Bourre, a troglodyte site and silk-worm farm in a lovely hillside setting. The route continues alongside the Cher to Montrichard, a bustling market town which has kept its French traditions, a perfect place to have lunch. The final section of the route takes you along the GR41 through Chissay-en-Touraine to Chenonceaux with its iconic chateau. (Staying at Hotel La Roseraie, Half Board)

Day 3 At Chenonceaux

Explore the superb Chateau de Chenonceau with its famous arches spanning across the river. It's the most romantic and beautiful of all the Renaissance chateaux and is associated with some famous names - rivals Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de'Medici (respectively mistress and widow of Henry II) and Mary, Queen of Scots who stayed here as the child bride of Francis II. After you visit you can taste the chateau's wines, hire a rowing boat (July-August), or take a pleasant riverside walk. Why not take the train to explore the lively city of Tours before coming back to relax with a swim in the hotel pool? (Staying at Hotel La Roseraie, Half Board)

Day 4 Chenonceaux to Amboise 17.5km/11mi/4hr

You begin today with a transfer from Chenonceaux to Veretz-Montlouis. The route then takes you along the quiet back roads of the GR3, running parallel with the Loire. Leaving Montlouis you walk through the open fields and vineyards of the Loire region, with the opportunity to stop for wine tastings and perhaps take advantage of our wine-carrying service. The final stretch takes you beside the Loire River into the fascinating town of Amboise, providing you with numerous options for your rest day. (Staying at Hotel Le Pavillon des Lys, Breakfast only)

Day 5 At Amboise

Amboise is filled with interest. It's well known for its Son et Lumiere display based at the massive chateau, which was turned by Charles VIII into a luxurious palace in the late C15. The town has bustling narrow streets, some excellent restaurants and attractive buildings. Leonardo da Vinci spent the last four years of his life at Clos Luce, now a museum with displays of models constructed from his original plans. there's a striking fountain (made in 1968 by Max Ernst) and fascinating stained glass, paintings and sculptures in the C12 church of St-Denis. (Staying at Hotel Le Pavillon des Lys, Breakfast only)

Day 6 Amboise to Chaumont 21km/13.5m/4hr

Today's walk leads you out of Amboise heading south east along the GR3 trail towards the charming village of Souvigny-de-Touraine. The paths then flow through the fields and wineries of the Loire region (your last opportunity for a tasting or to purchase a few bottles). The final stretch follows part of the Camino de Santiago trail back to Chaumont-sur-Loire beside the river, with its impressive C15 chateau. (Staying at Hostellerie du Chateau, Half Board)

Day 7 Leave Chaumont