Orleans - Loch

Hotel Groslot Orleans - Experience the Renaissance charm of Hôtel Groslot, a historic treasure located in the heart of Orléans, France. Originally constructed as a private mansion in the 16th century, this architectural marvel later became the city hall. Marvel at its exquisite façade and step inside to discover rich interiors adorned with intricate woodwork and stained-glass windows. Known for hosting French royalty, including Charles IX and Louis XIV, Hôtel Groslot offers a fascinating insight into Orléans’ regal history. A must-visit for lovers of history and architecture.

Pont George V - Traverse history at the George V Bridge in Orléans, an iconic structure gracefully spanning the Loire River. Constructed in the early 19th century, this stone arch bridge provides picturesque views of the river and cityscape. Named after King George V of England, it serves as a vital connection to the city and a symbol of lasting friendship. Walk along its length to appreciate the harmonious blend of engineering and natural beauty. A visit to the George V Bridge offers both a scenic and historical experience in Orléans.

Château de Meung-sur-Loire - Meung-sur-Loire Castle, situated in the charming village of Meung-sur-Loire, offers a captivating glimpse into France’s medieval past. Dating back to the 13th century, the castle is surrounded by lush gardens and provides panoramic views of the Loire Valley. Its impressive stone walls and towers reflect the architectural style of the era, while the interiors showcase the grandeur of its former residents. The castle is also linked to the literary legacy of the 14th-century poet Jean de Meung, who immortalized it in his famous work Roman de la Rose. Visiting Meung-sur-Loire Castle is like stepping back in time, immersing visitors in the history, culture, and beauty of the Loire region.

Chateau de Beaugency - Château de Beaugency, located in the picturesque town of Beaugency along the Loire River, is a majestic fortress that offers a deep dive into French history. Originally built in the 11th century, the castle has undergone several transformations, with its Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements still visible today. The castle’s impressive keep and fortified walls give a sense of its defensive past, while the interior reveals beautifully restored rooms and fascinating exhibitions. With its strategic position overlooking the Loire, Château de Beaugency provides both a historical journey and a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

National Estate of Chambord - Parc National de Chambord, centered around the magnificent Château de Chambord, is a vast and wild haven in the heart of the Loire Valley. This expansive park, covering over 5,000 hectares, is a blend of dense forests, tranquil lakes, and meadows, offering a perfect escape into nature. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer and wild boar, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. Whether strolling through the serene woodlands or exploring the architectural wonder of the château, Parc de Chambord is a place where nature and history seamlessly intertwine.

Chateau Royal de Blois - Château de Blois, nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, is a stunning reflection of French royal history. This Renaissance castle is a masterful blend of architectural styles, from medieval to classical, with a rich tapestry of stories behind its walls. Once the residence of several French kings, including Louis XII and François I, the château is filled with beautifully restored rooms, exquisite tapestries, and a courtyard that still echoes with centuries of royal life. A visit here offers not just a glimpse into the lives of French monarchs but also breathtaking views of the surrounding town and the Loire River.

Chateau de Cheverny - Château de Cheverny is a stunning example of classical French architecture, nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley. Built in the 17th century, this grand estate remains privately owned, yet it’s open to the public, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life. Its impeccable interiors, adorned with rich tapestries, fine furniture, and striking paintings, reflect its historical grandeur. The surrounding grounds, with their manicured gardens and vast forests, add to its allure. Château de Cheverny is also famous for inspiring the setting of the Tintin comics, making it a unique blend of history, beauty, and pop culture.

Château Royal d’Amboise - The Château d’Amboise, perched on a hill overlooking the Loire River, is a striking symbol of French royalty and Renaissance architecture. Dating back to the 15th century, this castle was the favored residence of French kings, including Charles VIII and François I. Its stunning royal apartments, vast terraces, and beautiful gardens reflect its importance in France’s history. The château is also home to the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, who spent his final years at the nearby Clos Lucé. With its blend of royal history, art, and breathtaking views, Château d’Amboise is a must-visit gem in the Loire Valley.

Montrichard - Montrichard is a charming town in the Loire Valley, steeped in history and nestled along the Cher River. Dominated by the impressive ruins of its medieval castle, Château de Montrichard, the town offers a serene escape with picturesque views of the river and surrounding countryside. The town’s narrow streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and remnants of its past, inviting visitors to wander and explore. Montrichard’s blend of history, natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere makes it a delightful stop in the Loire Valley.

Chateau de Chenonceau - Château de Chenonceau, often called the “Château des Dames” due to the influential women who shaped its history, is one of the most elegant and iconic castles in the Loire Valley. Spanning the Cher River, its graceful arches and perfectly manicured gardens create a fairytale-like scene. The château is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, exquisite interior rooms, and the stunning floral displays that adorn its gardens throughout the year. Steeped in rich history, it was the home of Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers, whose legacies still echo within its walls. Visiting Chenonceau is like stepping into a piece of French history, where beauty and intrigue intertwine at every turn.

Château de Loches - Château de Loches, perched above the Indre River, is a formidable fortress with a rich history that dates back to the 10th century. This medieval stronghold played a significant role in France’s history, serving as a royal residence and later a prison. Its impressive keep, fortified walls, and dungeons give visitors a glimpse into the past, while the beautifully restored royal apartments showcase the grandeur of its former inhabitants. The château also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding town and countryside, making it a must-see for those exploring the Loire Valley’s history and architecture.

Loch - Angers

Cathedrale Saint-Gatien - Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, located in Tours, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a true symbol of the city. Its towering spires dominate the skyline, reaching for the sky in intricate detail. The cathedral’s interior is equally awe-inspiring, with stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes in vivid color, and ornate chapels that radiate a sense of spiritual tranquility. The building itself, completed over several centuries, combines elements of both Gothic and Romanesque styles, offering a striking blend of history, art, and architecture. As you wander through its vast halls, the sheer scale and beauty of Cathédrale Saint-Gatien leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Château de Villandry - Château de Villandry is renowned not only for its majestic Renaissance architecture but also for its stunning gardens, considered some of the most beautiful in France. Located along the banks of the Loire River, the château’s beautifully restored rooms and grand galleries offer a glimpse into aristocratic life during the 16th century. However, it is the elaborate, symmetrical gardens that steal the show—an intricate blend of ornamental, vegetable, and water gardens, each with its own symbolic meaning. A visit to Villandry is a journey through both history and nature, where the artistry of design is as impressive as the château itself.

Chateau de Breze - Château de Brézé, located in the Loire Valley near Saumur, is a hidden gem known for its impressive underground architecture. While its Renaissance exterior is striking, it’s the château’s subterranean levels that truly set it apart. Beneath its grand façade lies a labyrinth of cellars, tunnels, and even a deep moat, all carved into the rock. The château’s history dates back to the 11th century, and it has been beautifully preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life. Its elegant interiors and expansive gardens add to the charm, making Château de Brézé a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and mystery.

Chateau de Brissac - Château de Brissac, located in the Loire Valley, is a stunning Renaissance castle renowned for its grandeur and rich history. Often referred to as the “Giant of the Loire,” it stands as the tallest château in France, with seven floors of beautifully restored rooms, each showcasing opulent decor and artwork. The castle is still a family residence, adding to its charm and authenticity. Surrounding the château are expansive, lush gardens perfect for a leisurely stroll. A visit to Brissac offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of French nobility while immersing yourself in its fascinating stories and serene beauty.

Chateau d’Angers - The Château d’Angers, located in the heart of Angers, is a mighty fortress that stands as a testament to medieval strength and history. Built in the 9th century, the château’s imposing walls, 17 massive towers, and strategic location above the Maine River give it a formidable presence. Inside, visitors can explore the fortress’s rich history, including the famous Apocalypse Tapestry, one of the largest medieval tapestries in the world. The château’s well-preserved interiors and gardens offer a fascinating journey through the past, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

• Offline map with GPS navigation routes
• One-year access to tour in preferred language
• Audio guide app for iPhone and Android
• 50 audio recordings by a professional historian
• Landmark illustrations

• In-person tour guide
• Smartphone and headphones
• Entry tickets and audio guides for inside the castle
• Transportation
• Food and Beverages

The audio guide serves as a mobile companion, perfect for planning a self-guided tour of the Loire Valley’s castles. It features concise walking tours of the valley’s key towns, along with audio commentary on famous castles and their historical significance. Enjoy the stunning exteriors of these grand castles and decide if you’d like to explore inside.

The audio guide offers narration on the following castles (please note that actual castle visits are not part of the package): Meung-sur-Loire, Beaugency, Chambord, Blois, Cheverny, Chaumont-sur-Loire, Chenonceau, Amboise, Clos Lucé, Montrichard, Tours, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Usse, Chinon, Abbey of Fontevraud, Breze, Saumur, Brissac, Angers, and other historical sites.

A user-friendly map within the mobile app, enhanced by GPS, will lead you to your destinations. The tour includes 50 audio recordings, all crafted by a professional historian.

• The audio guide is available through a mobile app for iOS and Android
• Entry tickets to the castles and museums are not included, please purchase them separately in advance
• The audio guides inside the castles are not included
• The tour does not cover all the castles in the Loire Valley
• This is a self-guided tour ― you will need to download the audio guide mobile app, activate your purchase, and follow the route on the app’s map (without a human guide)
• The audio guide is available at any time, the date and time during checkout are merely approximate

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.