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France's Loire
Valley is famous as a land of châteaux - a term that includes everything
from simple medieval fortresses to elegant, gilded palaces, the sumptuous
playgrounds of 18th-century aristocrats. The Loire, a region just southwest
of Paris, has Europe's greatest concentration of truly magnificent châteaux-such
as Ussé, said to be the inspiration for the tale of Sleeping Beauty;
Chambord, remarkable for its size and its beauty; and Amboise and Chenonceau.
Others, less well known, are local treasures and well worth a visit.
Distances are very
manageable in the Loire, and wherever you stay, you will probably be
within an hour or so of some of the best-loved châteaux and gardens
(some with popular sound and light shows). You can also visit Orléans,
the town whose heroine is Joan of Arc, and the attractive city of Tours,
with its Old Town and Gothic cathedral. And from Tours, the TGV express
train can whisk you to Paris in less than an hour.
In the Loire
Valley, we feature a range of homes, from the ultimate in luxury châteaux,
to simple, charming 19th-century stone farmhouses, converted barns,
and cottages. Included in the lower price range are gîtes, inexpensive
properties in the nationwide French system of private farm cottages
and other rural homes. A typical home in the Loire is located on the
outskirts of a small town or village, convenient to local shops and
restaurants, with easy access to historic properties throughout the
region. Many of our larger villas offer private pools. Golf, horseback
riding, tennis, and other activities are widely available throughout
the Loire.
All of our properties
are comfortably furnished, in traditional or contemporary style, and
sometimes with antiques.
INTERIORS.
Properties include
1-5 bedroom(s), 1-3 or more bathroom(s), living room, dining area, and
fully equipped kitchen. Furnishings and decor vary according to the
individual owners; some are simple, others are more luxurious, sometimes
with period furnishings and amenities such as dishwasher and washing
machine.
HIGHLIGHTS.
Attractive farmhouses,
villas, and several private châteaux in the Loire Valley. Perfect
for day trips to Tours and France's most magnificent châteaux,
including Chambord and Chenonceau.
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