LOIRE VALLEY - fresh green shoots and sweet spring light.
17-23rd May 2021
“No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” proverb
If ever there was a thought to lift our spirits, it must be that.
We usually like to find an apposite quote to use as a nifty strapline to introduce a new tour and although incisive observations about the positive vibes and general merriment surrounding the month of May certainly abound, a variation on 'This, too, shall pass' seemed more appropriate for our times.
So we present a rescheduled, seasonally alternative offering to our original tour to the Loire Valley. Celebrating, not the mists and mellow fruitfulness of spring, but instead looking for the joyful positivity of the fresh green foliage of early May.
A part of the world disproportionately blessed with riches - the Loire Valley is a lush green land of gently undulating countryside interspersed with charming towns and magnificent, storybook castles.
Undoubtedly an exceptional place to visit in May - it has been said that spring in the valley of the Loire something that everyone should experience at least once - the Loire Valley, after all, is known as The Garden of France. We might reasonably expect the early morning fog to shroud the landscape in soft, white haze.
To journey around the chateaux of the Loire Valley is to step into an enchanted, fairytale land where castles rise majestically and dense dark forests create the backdrop. Stunningly elegant gardens surround the magnificent Renaissance monuments, and three wide, gently flowing rivers pass through this magical region.
FURTHER DETAILS CAN BE SEEN IN OUR ONLINE PRESENTATION
We have based ourselves in the pretty village of Azay-le-Rideau, in the Parc naturel régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine the gateway to the region. The town centre is a winding maze of narrow streets, and further afield the area is filled with riverside Renaissance chateaux, rolling green vineyards and lush landscaped gardens
It sits in the shadow of the The Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a Renaissance jewel which is perfectly reflected in the water beyond.
The region is known for its fine food and Tours is indisputably a town of culture and gastronomy. We will have no difficulty in finding agreeable bistros to rest our weary bones at the end of the day.
A wealth of regional and artisanal products awaits those in need of a little retail therapy. The creative vibe is pervasive - and contemporary design and crafts are well represented amongst the more traditional attractions.
Accommodation options are plentiful in this region. We have opted for the Hôtel de Biencourt in Azay-le-Rideau.
Located in the heart of the Loire valley in the pedestrianised centre of the village. It offers authentic French decor and a very quiet and personal sense of hospitality. From the conversations I have had with the hotel, I know they will do everything to make our visit very special.
Breakfast can be taken outside in their 'blossoming courtyard' - weather permitting, and once we are nourished for the morning, we will find ourselves centrally located and within easy reach of all the places we hope to visit
PRICING:
SINGLE ROOM, STANDARD £2,595
SINGLE ROOM, UPGRADE £2,750
DEPOSIT DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING - 20%
Partner rate (non photographing) £975
Includes £10 carbon offsetting fee. This is a voluntary contribution. Please advise us if you would rather opt out and we will cover your contribution.
INCLUDES:
Six nights single room accommodation at the Hotel de Biencourt including breakfast.
Transfers to and from Nantes airport (if your flight coincides with ours).
Tuition from Denis and Valda
Max, 10 clients.
EXCLUDES
Flights, insurance, meals (apart from those listed), airport transfers, should your flight not coincide with ours.
Fitness level - moderate. Gentle walking.
Average temperature High 17°, Low 8°C
RECOMMENDED FLIGHTS:
EasyJet - departing London Gatwick on Monday 17th May 2021 at 1040hrs arriving at Nantes at 1305hrs. Trip home departing on Sunday 23rd May 2021 at 1720hrs arriving back at London Gatwick at 1740hrs.
GMT +1 hours