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Loire Valley Family Biking
Fun in France's Regal Touraine
There's nothing to see in the Loire Valley. Nothing but fairy-tale castles in every shape and size. Imposing towers and pincushion spires. Flying buttresses and astonishingly flawless gardens. Nothing but fertile fields crisscrossed by gracefully meandering rivers. Easygoing routes for younger riders. And lots of pedaling options for the older crowd. Nothing but treats at patisseries, gourmet cuisine and exquisite wines. A visit to Leonardo da Vinci's house and a fencing lesson just for kids. History comes to life. The Loire Valley - nothing short of the perfect family getaway.
Request an itinerary here or reserve this trip now.
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• Fairy-tale castles
• Leonardo da Vinci's home
• Fence with an award-winning fencing master!
• A private tour of Château de Chenonceau
• Relax at gracious castle-hotels
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Days 1-2
Renaissance, medieval and classical chateaux. Pedal to Vouvray, one of France's oldest wine-growing regions. As you spin past peaceful woodland and picture-perfect villages, you'll soon see why bicycling in the Loire Valley is such a delight. A hands-on visit to Leonardo da Vinci's home Join a local Vouvray vintner for a private tour of the family's centuries - old wine cave (it used to be a troglodyte dwelling!) Walk through Clos Lucé, where da Vinci once lived, and marvel at models and designs of his creations. Adults can explore the lively town of Amboise while the youngsters let loose at an outdoor adventure park with options from trampolines to go-karts.
• Two nights at Le Choiseul. This elegant 18th-century manor house, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, features a swimming pool and glorious cuisine.
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Day 3-4
En garde! Kids learn the importance of foibles and fortes, and wield épées under the watchful eye of world-class fencing master Rudi van Oeveren. Travel back in time at magical Chateau de Chenonceau, where a private guide shares fascinating stories of its richly appointed interiors and dazzling artwork. A peaceful route through vineyards and villages leads to Chateau de Villandry, surrounded by some of France's most exquisite gardens. Spin to the town of Saché and check out the castle where Balzac wrote his acclaimed Comédie Humaine.
• Two nights at Domaine de la Tortiniere. A charming 19th-century château with impressive countryside views, a lavish dining room, heated pool and the gracious hospitality of the Olivereau family.
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Days 5-6
The royal treatment at gracious castle-hotels. Spin through rolling hills and orchards to the riverside town of Azay-le-Rideau and explore its magnificent chateau. Discover Ussé, the castle that inspired the author of Sleeping Beauty. Explore the town of Chinon and learn of its historical ties to Joan of Arc.
• One night at Chateau de Marcay. Turrets and secret passageways attest to the medieval origins of this Relais & Châteaux-member hotel, which offers a sparkling pool, elegant rooms and exceptional dining.
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Dates: Jun 3-8, Jun 17-22, Jul 1-6, Jul 15-20, Jul 29-Aug 3, Aug 12-17, Aug 26-31
Length: 6 days/ 5 nights
Level: 1 to 4
Cost: $4198 - $4398
Single Supplement: $700 - $940
(Please note: Prices are subject to change. Please view current pricing here.)
Meals: All meals included except 2 lunches.
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