Loire Castles Escape Ride Loire France An exploration of the famous Châteaux of the Loire Valley. Visit Chambord, Chenonceau, Saumur and Chinon! The ride is designed for travelers looking for a relaxed and cultured getaway. Take memorable photographs and be spoiled by the mouth watering French cuisine! Overnights are at exquisite castle and manor houses, each with its own charm and history. The riding tour leads you to and inside some of the most famous Loire castles without the tourist crowds. Guided by locals with good knowledge and warm smiles, you will enjoy the pleasures of riding in all the beautiful landscapes of the Loire Valley. Each stop is promised to be unique; sometimes it will be a guided tour, other times a garden festival, a horse show, a wine tasting or self guided exploration on your own. Here you will truly taste and experience the French "art de vivre"! Each of the 6 evenings will be in private castles, where you will have an intimate dinner with the owners, taste the heralded gastronomy from the "Heart of France" in excellent  quality gourmet restaurants, quaint picnics on the trail with foie gras, and discover several entertaining shows in the castles at night. This is a luxury program that is designed for those who wish to have personalized care and therefore is limited to eight riders per departure. There are two week long itineraries available: Saumur to Villandry (iti. 6) - 5 riding days Starting at Saumur we ride through beautiful vineyards, by troglodytes caves and to the famous castles... We follow the great history of Plantagenets, Alienor of Aquitaine, Valois, Jane of Arc... French aristocrats welcome us at their private châteaux and we continue our ride across wonderful landscapes, along orchards, through immense forests and along the rivers Loire, Vienne, and Indre. Finally we finish at the wonderful Chateau de Villandry and its famous gardens. Beauregard to Chenonceau (iti. 3) - 4 riding days In the steps of french aristocracy and around the most famous castles of the Loire - Chambord, Beauregard, Cheverny, Blois, Chenonceau, Amboise.. These wonderful Renaissance castles bring us into the heart of French history. We start this ride in the favorite hunting forests of the renaissance Fench kings, then along the wonderful banks of River Cher and then finish with the chestnut trees of Amboise forest. Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Meeting: # 6: Saumur # 3: Blois Airport: Paris Transfer: Take a taxi from Blois or Samur train stations (depending on your itinerary #). Riders: Min 5 riders Max 10 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

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Transfer and Other Charges:

Transfers are not included on this trip.
For Saumur to Villandry (itinerary 6 - option A), meet at 7:00pm at Château de Beaulieu for aperitif and briefing on Day 1. On the last day of your trip, transfer is possible from Domaine de Mestre to Saint Pierre des Corps TGV station in Tours (not included).
For Beauregard to Amboise (itinerary 3 - option B), meet at 7:00pm at Relais de Chambord for aperitif and briefing on Day 1. On the last day of your trip, transfer is possible by taxi from Chateau de Blois to Blois-Chambord train station (not included).

Sample Itinerary: Saumur to Villandry (iti. 6) - subject to changes

Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Arrival at Saumur train station and transfer from there to your accommodation near the Abbaye de Fontevraud. Dinner and briefing at the accommodation.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré

Day 2 (Monday): Ride to Chateau de Montsoreau 
This morning we set off riding in the direction of the Champigny troglodyte (cave) cellar where we partake in an unforgettable wine tasting (according to the season). Represented are some of the most illustrious labels from this great wine producing region. Following the wine tasting we gather for a gourmet lunch in a nearby restaurant.
In the afternoon we discover the royal abbey of Fontevraud where Alienor d’Aquitaine used to live. We admire its magnficent achritecture which house the former throne along with Richard Lionheart and Henry II Plantagenet burials.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel La Croix Blanche

Day 3 (Tuesday): Chateau de Brézé & Saumur
We leave Fontevraud by countryside and vinyards to reach beautiful castle of Brézé. We are welcomed by a wine-maker at La Giraudière cellar for a gourmet picnic and wine tasting of the estate.
After lunch, isit of Brézé and its spectacular troglodyte moat, unique in Europe. This castle belongs to the same De Colbert family since XVIIth, whom former ancestor used to be Louis XIVth’s banker. New departure on borseback by Saumur’s vinyards. End of the ride in front of Saumur castle with its spectacular view on Loire Valley.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel La Croix Blanche

Day 4 (Wednesday): Chateau de Saumur & Chinon (no riding)
We start our day by visiting Saumur castle, set on a rock overlooking the Loire valley, it used to be a perfect fortress. You will travel through history with its beautiful horse-riding staff exhibition. Wine tasting in famous Saumur vineyard followed by lunch in local restaurant.
We are then transfered to Chinon town. This magnificent fortress set on a rock on the Vienne River, shelttered Henry II at the end of his life. This is also where mythical and historical meeting between Jeanne of Arc and Charles VII occurred. Free time in Chinon fortress.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau du Rivau



Day 5 (Thursday): Chinon to Azay le Rideau
Beginning of the ride to Chateau d’Ussé from Chinon forest. WE will arrive to Chateau d’Ussé, Jacob Grimms’ « Sleeping Beauty » Chateau. Lunch in Ussé. This afternoon, ride to Bréhémont. Great long canters along Indre River, woods and orchards.
Dinner and night in wonderful Chateau de Gizeux where you will be personally welcomed and hosted by the owners.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Gizeux

Day 6 (Friday): Azay le Rideau to Villandry
In the morning we visit the beautiful chateau of Azay le Rideau set on an island on river Indre. Departure on horseback for Villandry castle. Lunch in Villandry, in front of the castle. Last afternoon with the visit of majestic castle of Villandry and its fantastic « à la Française » gardens.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Gizeux

Day 7 (Saturday): Breakfast and departure
Transfer (not included) to TGV Tours Saint Pierre des Corps station.
Meals included: Breakfast

Please note this itinerary is only suitable for riders able to do long canters and may be changed in small amounts due to weather and seasonal conditions.



Sample Itinerary: Chambord to Chenonceau (iti. 3) - subject to changes

Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Arrival to Relais de Chambord. Check-in after 4:00pm. Dinner and briefing at 7:00pm.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de la Borde

Day 2 (Monday): Ride around Chambord
Beginning of the ride from Chambord along the "grand Canal" with spectacular views on the Château de Chambord. We then continue through the large alleys of Boulogne forest around Chambord, then back to Château de Chambord on horseback: Royal! Lunch in Chambord.
In the afternoon, visit Chateau de Chambord (horse show in Chambord not included). Gourmet dinner.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de la Borde

Day 3 (Tuesday): Ride to Beauregard & Cheverny
We start our ride from Chambord to Chateau de Beauregard by the Boulogne forest. We have the privilege to enter by the front path of the chateau: an unforgettable experience! Visit of Chateau de Beauregard, and discovering of his famous "gallerie des illustres", intact since XVII century. Picnic with foie gras in chateau de Beauregard.
In the afternoon, we head to Chateau of Cheverny on horseback, riding across the countryside and Cheverny vineyards. Visit of Château de Cheverny and overnight nearby. 
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Relais des 3 chateaux



Day 4 (Wednesday): Cheverny to Chaumont sur Loire
This morning, we ride in the countryside of Sologne up to the medieval chateau of Fougères sur Bièvre, which we will visit. We will have our lunch break after the visit.
In the afternoon, we ride to Chaumont sur Loire, passing by Candé on Beuvron, then following the Loire River. Visit of renaissance château of Chaumont sur Loire or garden festival.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Le Clos d'Amboise

Day 5 (Thursday): Ride along the Loire
We start our day on the Loire banks, juste under Chaumont sur Loire castle. Then we ride along the river and its beautiful biodiversity classified in UNESCO’s World Inheritance. Lunch in a local restaurant in Mosnes or Chargé, a charming village. After lunch, ride to chateau d’Amboise by the Loire Valley. Special arrival in Chateau d’Amboise on horseback by « La porte des Lions », the medieval king’s gate ! 
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Noizay

Day 6 (Friday): Visit of Clos Lucé 
We start the day by a great ride on Cher banks and its amazing view on Chenonceau castle's famous arches. We then enjoy the visit of the castle and its georgous furniture and decoration, followed by our lunch in l’Orangerie of the château.
We finish our week by a free time in Amboise to visit lovely château of Clos Lucé, last home of Leonardo daVinci, or a visit of Amboise old town and its lovely gift shops. Last goodbye drink with your guide in Amboise. Last gourmet dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Noizay

Day 7 (Saturday): Departure
Breakfast at Hotel Le Choiseuil and departure. Transfers (not included) for Amboise station or Saint Pierre des Corps.
Meals included: Breakfast

For Info on Shorter Trip Options - See Renaissance Castles Getaway (IT-LOESC-2) - not offered in 2022


Non Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. It is best to have a car in order to do some sightseeing while the rest of the group explores on horseback.

                                                    Tours area 

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	45	48	55	60	67	74	78	78	72	62	52	47
Average Low Temperature (°F)	35	35	39	41	48	53	57	56	52	47	40	36
Average High Temperature (°C)	7	9	13	16	19	23	26	26	22	17	11	8
Average Low Temperature (°C)	2	2	4	5	9	12	14	13	11	8	4	2
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	10	9	9	8	9	6	6	5	6	8	9	10

Source: NOAA


Seasons
The Loire region benefits from a mild climate created by mild breezes blowing in from the Atlantic. The Loire is often the line of demarcation in France's weather, between the Northern climate and the Southern.

You can expect frequent showers in the spring months, whereas the summer brings humid heat. The balmy autumn season produces brilliant red and gold foliage, and lively festivals take place in many towns and villages to celebrate the grape harvest. A damp chill settles over The Loire Valley in winter, and many of the chateaux close for the season.

The general atmosphere is relaxed during your ride. Please bring some smart casual clothes for dinner.

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!)

Riding boots (short) + Minichaps

Riding helmet  (recommended for all trips)

Riding gloves

Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection

Lightweight Rain coat

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Jacket or sweater for cool evenings

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Pyjama

Bag for dirty clothes

Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes

Swimsuit

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Handkerchiefs

Adapter for electric appliances

Camera and enough extra film and batteries

Belt pack

Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Average ratings from 10 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date carol balke 11/3/2018 jacqueline grenier 11/1/2010 rosalinda jill demarco 10/2/2010 debbie bertolatti 9/7/2010 dorothy wilbanks 8/14/2010 gay brown 8/1/2010 carole kowitt 7/31/2010 irene lipetsker 10/1/2007 sheryl griffin 3/15/2007 lynn dompe 5/25/2006

Accommodations
Saumur to Villandry (iti. 6): This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations. You will be staying in 5 different locations total.
Beauregard to Amboise (iti. 3): This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations. You will be staying in 4 different locations total. 

Description
Accommodations are always located close to the castles we visit and combine the charm with comfort. You will be staying mainly in 4-star chateaux and some charming 3-star hotels. You will enjoy the magic of old-stoned dwellings, of hundred-year-old trees, and sometimes the Lords' authentic and cordial welcome. Comfortable and refined twins rooms with private bathroom are waiting for you. Many of the accommodations offers a heated swimming pool. WIFI is available at all locations. Laundry is not available.

Saumur to Villandry (iti. 6) Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1, 2 & 3: Hotel La Croix Blanche
Night 4: Chateau du Rivau
Night 5 & 6: Chateau de Gizeux



Chateau de Gizeux
This castle is surrounded by a beautiful forest and offers delicately decorated rooms with period furnishing and views of the garden. The rooms all have their own fireplace and private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi access is available in public areas.

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Chambord to Chenonceau (iti. 3) Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Chateau de la Borde
Night 3: Relais des 3 Chateaux near Cheverny
Night 4: Le Clos d'Amboise
Night 5 & 6: Chateau de Noizay



Relais des 3 Chateaux near Cheverny
This Relais was originally founded in 1850 to welcome travellers and their horses. Nowadays, it is a beautifully renovated hotel offering comfortable rooms decorated in the Renaissance style. Each room comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a safe box, a TV and ensuite facilities with a hairdryer.



Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.



Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 7.

We offer you a taste of genuine gastronomy from Heart of France : picnics with foie gras, traditional food of the region, possibility of dining in a Michelin star restaurant, and gourmet dinners in private chateaux.

You will taste and experience the French art de vivre. All gourmet meals with 2 glass of wine included.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions given prior notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English
Horses:		Mixed Selle Francais and Anglo Arabian. Itinerary 3 : mixed breed horses. Itinerary 6 : arabian horses.
Pace:		iti 6: fast - 5 riding days with about 3h per day in the saddle iti 3: moderate - 4 riding days with about 3h per day in the saddle. | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(3 to 4 out of 5)    Intermediate +
Age:		Min 10
Riders:		Min 5 riders	Max 10 riders

Horses
The choice of our horses has been motivated above all, by the strong desire to make you enjoy your trip in total safety. Our horses are quiet and generous. They are mixed breed horses trained for the trail riding. Your trek companion is chosen for you according your level, height and weight.

Itinerary #3 
Pace: moderate - 4 riding days from 3h to 4h per day in the saddle.
For riders who want to combine horse riding with visits of the most famous chateaux of the Loire.

Itinerary #6
Pace: fast - 5 riding days from 4h to 6h per day in the saddle.

This is a trip best suited for experienced riders that ride on a regular basis and are comfortable and in control of their horse at long and fast canters. Riders must have good balance and comfortable at posting trot and long canters.

Passports

Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:

(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.

Passport Note

France is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.



Visas

Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:

(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;

(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.

Passport Required?
British	Yes
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	1
Visa Required?
British	No
Australian	No
Canadian	No
USA	No
Other EU	No
Return Ticket Required?
British	No
Australian	Yes
Canadian	Yes
USA	Yes
Other EU	No

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.