Formal gardens with geometric hedges leading up to the white chateau at Villandry under a blue sky.
Chateau d'Amboise overlooking the Loire River and surrounding town in France.
Rolling green vineyard rows under a clear blue sky in the Loire Valley.
Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau reflected in water next to a wooden bridge and waterfall.
Long dirt path lined with tall trees featuring bright green spring foliage near Chenonceaux.
Chateau d'Amboise overlooking the Loire River with stone bridge reflection
Formal gardens with manicured hedges, green lawns, gravel paths, and a reflecting pool at Villandry.
Field of purple and white cyclamen flowers growing among green leaves and fallen autumn foliage.
Stone arch bridge over the Loire River with Tours city skyline under cloudy skies.
Chateau de Clos Luce with vibrant red roses and manicured topiary gardens under a clear blue sky.
1/10

Loire Valley Walking Tour

7 days / 6 nights

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Experience the magic of inn-to-inn hiking in France on the Chateaux trail as you journey through the Loire Valley's tapestry of history, nature, and culture.

Starting point

Chinon

Finish point

Amboise

Season

From April to October

Technical level

2/5

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Inn-to-Inn

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Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the rich history of Chinon, Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry, Tours, Chenonceaux, and Amboise
  • Marvel at the grandeur of the region's châteaux, each a testament to a bygone era
  • Stroll through vineyards and farmlands, soaking in the serene beauty of the French countryside
  • Savour the flavours of the Loire Valley, from its world-renowned wines to its local delicacies
  • Enjoy the ease of village-to-village hiking in France, with accommodations, luggage transfer, and detailed itineraries taken care of

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

6 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfast
Digital guidebook with itinerary, route instructions, and practical information
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
Tour design and organization
Service and support during your hike
Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Hotel upgrades
Single supplement

What to bring to the tour

  • Hiking shoes/boots
  • 25 to 35-liter backpack
  • Base layer
  • Sports T-shirts
  • Hiking shorts
  • Hiking water-repellent pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Midlayer
  • Sports socks and underwear
  • Leisurewear for evenings
  • Shade hat/cap
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hiking poles
  • ID card or passport
  • Snacks
  • Cash
  • Water bottles or hydration pack
  • Toiletries

Imagine stepping into a living canvas, where the brush strokes of history and nature blend to create a masterpiece of breathtaking beauty and where every stone, every vineyard, and every château has a story to tell. Loire Valley Walking Tour is a seven-day sojourn that weaves through the heart of France along the most enchanting stretch of the Chateaux trail.

The Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a symphony of nature's finest elements. Verdant vineyards, golden farmlands, and whispering forests form a mesmerising backdrop to the grand châteaux that punctuate the landscape, each a testament to the region's rich heritage.

Whether it's the mediaeval allure of Chinon, the Renaissance elegance of Azay-le-Rideau, the bustling city life of Tours, or the royal charm of Amboise, each day unveils a new chapter of discovery.

The hikes are mostly on flat terrain, following a well-trodden path. The first stage from Chinon to Azay-le-Rideau is the longest, but it's possible to avoid it with a train ride. As you walk, you'll be treated to stunning views of the French countryside, with its lush vineyards, golden wheat fields, and the majestic Loire River winding its way through the landscape.

We take care of all the details, from booking accommodations that offer a warm welcome after a day's hike to providing a detailed handout with a day-by-day itinerary. We also deliver GPS navigation through a user-friendly app and local recommendations to enrich your experience.

Our inn-to-inn hiking experiences ensure that your luggage is transferred safely from one place to the next, allowing you to focus on the journey and the beauty surrounding you.

Are you ready to taste the wines nurtured by the Loire Valley's fertile soil? Then lace up your boots, pack your spirit of adventure, and join us on the Loire Valley Walking Tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our walking holidays are designed to cater to a range of fitness levels. We offer everything from leisurely strolls through vineyards and coastal paths to more challenging mountain hikes. However, it’s always a good idea to have a basic level of fitness to fully enjoy the experience.

Yes, our walking holidays can be enjoyed by the whole family. However, the suitability of certain tours for children may depend on the specific itinerary and the child’s age and fitness level. We recommend contacting us directly to discuss the best options for your family.

We recommend sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. The terrain can vary from smooth paths to rocky trails, so footwear should have good grip and ankle support. Waterproof shoes are also a good idea in case of wet weather.

Yes, we recommend booking your walking holiday in advance. This allows us to secure the best accommodations and ensures that you have ample time to prepare for your adventure.

We carefully select our accommodations to enhance your walking holiday experience. Depending on the tour, this could range from charming local inns and bed and breakfasts to more luxurious hotels. All accommodations are chosen for their comfort, hospitality, and proximity to our walking routes.

Our tours are primarily self-guided, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, we provide detailed itineraries, route notes, and a user-friendly GPS navigation app. For those who prefer a guided experience, please contact us to discuss the options.

France is a year-round destination, but the best time for a walking holiday depends on the region. Spring and autumn are generally ideal, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. However, some regions, like the French Alps, are best enjoyed in the summer, while others, like the French Riviera, offer pleasant walking conditions even in winter.

Safety is our top priority. In case of bad weather, we have contingency plans in place. This could involve suggesting an alternative route or activity for the day. We also provide support and advice on how to handle different weather conditions.

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Are you looking for a good adventure and limitless flexibility? Then you should try out a self-guided tour, perfect for independent explorers who want to set their own pace. Without the need to stick to a group schedule, you’re free to linger at scenic viewpoints while the logistics are taken care of in advance.

HASSLE-FREE

We handle itineraries, accommodations, and anything else you prefer not to deal with, so you can enjoy a carefree hike.

TRUSTED BY MANY

We are a financially protected company, fully bonded and insured, keeping your money safe and allowing you to travel with confidence.

TRIED & TESTED ADVENTURES

Only the best walking tours in France, cherry-picked by our team with an in-depth knowledge of the region.

UNBEATABLE SUPPORT

Our 24/7 customer support is where we show our passion, bringing you a better experience by making your well-being our number one priority.

from 1.145 € /person
Discover the soul of France with Walking Holidays France, offering meticulously planned multi-day walking tours across the country's most captivating landscapes.

Have questions? Talk to us.

Anja Hajnšek
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