Loire Castles Escape Ride

Introduction
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 Amboise (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.

There are also shorter 3 night getaways available: Renaissance Castles Getaway

Accomodation


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: Domaine de Mestré of the Abbaye
Night 4: Chateau de Ternay
Night 5: Hotel Le Grand Monarque in Azay le Rideau
Night 6: Chateau de Gizeux

Domaine de Mestré of the Abbaye
This beautiful building used to be the main farm of the Abbey of Fontevrault. The renovated farmhouse now features charming bedroom accommodations with all creatures comfort (free Wi-Fi and private bathroom). Each room has unique characters with traditional French inspiration. This property also has a garden with a seating area.


Chateau de Ternay
This beautiful castle has been owned by the same family since 1606. It offers 5 guest rooms, each decorated with historic furniture and with modern facilities such as heating and private bathroom with hairdryer. Free Wi-Fi is available in common areas and guests can enjoy all of the castles amenities including a beautiful park, a badminton court and an outdoor swimming pool.

Hotel Le Grand Monarque in Azay le Rideau
Tonight, you are accommodated in a former coaching inn dating back from the 18th century. Now a charming boutique hotel, all rooms feature private bathroom,  a TV, free Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, air conditioning and a safe.


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 Amboise (iti. 3) Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Relais de Chambord
Night 3: Relais des 3 Chateaux near Cheverny
Night 4: Hostellerie du Chateau in Chaumont sur Loire
Night 5 & 6: Hotel Le Choiseuil in Amboise


Relais de Chambord
This recently renovated Relais is located just a few hundred meters away from the beautiful Chambord Castle. It benefits from a quiet location, by the river and is surrounded by a lovely garden. Every room is unique and all include modern facilities such as satellite TV, private bathroom and Wi-Fi access. Other amenities include a tennis court and a wellness area (open from 9am to 8pm) with a hammam, sauna and an outdoor Jacuzzi.

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.

Hostellerie du Chateau in Chaumont sur Loire
This small hotel offers 15 bedrooms, each with its own décor. The rooms all feature a private bathroom, a phone, Wi-Fi access and a TV.
There is also an outdoor pool and a garden where guests can relax in the evening.

Hotel Le Choiseuil in Amboise
This beautiful manor dates back to the 18th century and features the typical architecture of the region. Each of the 30 guestrooms are unique. In each bedroom, you will find: private facilities, air conditioning, internet access, a TV and a safe.

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.

Riding


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.

Itinerary


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 ride another two hours along the Champigny vineyards and along the Loire river to chateau de Montsoreau, which inspired well known French writer Alexandre Dumas for his book "la dame de Montsoreau".
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré

Day 3 (Tuesday): Chateau de Brézé & Abbaye de Fontevraud
We will ride through the vineyards and the countryside to the Chateau de Brézé, where we will stop for lunch in the old stables.
After the visit, we ride again through the vineyards, the gorgeous countryside and forests until we reach the Abbaye de Fontevraud. We enjoy a magical entrance on horseback to the abbey which was once, before the French Revolution, the richest and most important monastery in France. During the 12th century this abbey gained great prestige and was supported by the Plantagenet family, Counts of Anjou and Kings of England. The church here is as majestic as a cathedral and was edified at the start of the 12 century. Its Roman façade was renewed in 1504 in a more flamboyant style but converted back to its original state in 1901 under the guise of architect Lucien Magne. Dinner and overnight at Domaine de Mestre, which is the old farm of the abbey.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré

Day 4 (Wednesday): Abbaye de Fontevraud to Chateau de Ternay
This morning we ride in the traditional French countryside to the Chateau de la Roche Martel, a private and historical chateau where we are welcomed by the owners for a picnic and visit. This chateau has undergone a lot of construction throughout the years, but the main buildings of the 15th century remain: an entrance through fortified walls and a wooden gallery, inscribed to the Registrar of Historic Buildings.
In the afternoon, ride in the countryside and woods to private Chateau de Ternay. We receive a cordial welcome by the Count and Countess of Ternay. This castles was built in 1439 but became property of the Ternay family in the early 19th century. Important restoration work was completed from 1861 - 1884 and a renowned feature is the Gothic vault, known for its exceptional decorative carvings.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Ternay



Day 5 (Thursday): Chinon to Azay le Rideau
Through the forest of Chinon, we ride on soft trails to the Chateau d'Ussé - the sleeping beauty castle, called so for its majestic towers. First fortified in the eleventh century, this castle was once the stronghold at the edge of the Chinon forest. It is a gem of Flamboyant Gothic style mixed with Renaissance motifs, with its completion taking over two hundred years and spanning the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Affects from all eras are evidenced in its completed state. It is in this greatly historical setting that we enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, ride to Chateau de la Chatonnière in Azay le Rideau. Enjoy unforgettable long canters along the Indre river, forests and orchards. Then, transfer to Azay le Rideau for a free visit.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Grand Monarque in Azay le Rideau

Day 6 (Friday): Azay le Rideau to Villandry
In the morning we ride to the Chateau de Villandry, known for the most infamous gardens of the Loire, where we will have an exquisite lunch. Completed in 1536, Chateau Villandry was the last of the large chateaus built in the Loire Valley during the Renaissance, so it is only fitting we spend our last day here.
We spend the afternoon visiting the wonderful garden and Chateau de Villandry before a transfer to the imposing but impressively private Chateau de Gizeux. where three generations of the Laffon family live. We are warmly welcomed while we explore this new castle before settling in for dinner an our overnight.
Riding approx. 2.5 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 Amboise (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 Relais de Chambord

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 Relais de Chambord

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. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hostellerie du Chateau

Day 5 (Thursday): Chaumont sur Loire to Amboise
After breakfast, we make our way to Amboise, riding along the bank of the river Loire, and across the Touraine countryside. Lunch in a local restaurant in Mosnes, a charming village "toureangeau".
After lunch, we ride to chateau d'Amboise. It is a special feeling arriving to Chateau d'Amboise on horseback by "la porte des Lions", the mediaval king's door!
Then, we have a private guided visit of the Château d'Amboise where Leonardo da Vinci is buried.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Choiseuil

Day 6 (Friday): Visit of Clos Lucé (no riding)
We start the day by a visit of Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci. Then, we have some free time in the charming old center of Amboise, where we will have lunch.
This afternoon, we visit of the fantastic Château de Chenonceau and its gardens.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Choiseuil

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.

Rates and Dates for Loire Castles Escape Ride

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: # 6: Saumur
# 3: Blois
Airport: Paris
Transfer: Take a taxi from Blois or Samur train stations (depending on your itinerary #).

Climate:
                                                    Tours area