Escape to Chateau Country

Day 1 : Fly to Paris

We board our trans-Atlantic flight to Paris.

Day 2 : Fontainebleau

In Paris, our French guide meets us at the airport. We benefit from her insight into the local culture, enhancing our enjoyment of the Loire Valley. On our way to the village of Amboise, we refresh ourselves with an included light lunch before exploring the beautiful chateau of Fontainebleau. This UNESCO World Heritage Site began as a hunting lodge for Louis VII. Francois I and Napoleon greatly influenced what we see today. Here, along with the restored rooms, you will be able to explore exhibits dedicated to Napoleon.

Later this afternoon we travel to Amboise located on the banks of the Loire River. Tonight we enjoy a welcome dinner at our hotel where we settle in for four nights.

Day 3 : Amboise

Today we explore the village of Amboise in depth. In the morning, we will visit Clos Luce, the final home of Leonardo da Vinci. Walk through rooms recreated to the period when Leonardo was in residence. Many replicas of his inventions are scattered throughout the house and gardens.

After our fascinating morning, a local guide takes us on a short walking tour through the winding village streets.

The afternoon is yours to find lunch in a charming local bistro, shop the streets of Amboise, walk up to the castle or stroll along the river.

This evening we enjoy a Renaissance dinner with all of the trimmings.

Day 4 : Villesavin & Chambord

Our day starts with a visit to Villesavin, the 16th century estate of Jean le Breton, entrusted by Francois I for the building of Chambord. Learn what it takes to maintain this intact estate including a beautiful restored chapel. Also located on the property is a wedding museum displaying wedding traditions in France during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Chambord was built as a hunting lodge for Francois I. Walk through gorgeous formal gardens, see a double helix staircase reputedly designed by the brilliant Leonardo da Vinci, and much more.

We enjoy a buffet lunch and experience an amazing show of falconry and horsemanship before we journey back to the hotel. This evening enjoy dinner on your own.

Day 5 : Chenonceau, Mushroom Caves & Local Cheese

A morning visit brings us to picturesque Chenonceau, beautifully spanning the River Cher. Learn about the rich history of this property from its Renaissance origins to a hospital during WWI and escape route from Vichy France during WWII.

We stop for lunch in a restaurant with true local flavor before visiting a mushroom cave to see how mushrooms are grown for sale in local markets.

There are over 1,000 varieties of French cheese, each region boasting their local varieties. At the small cheese producer, Fromagerie Moreau, we learn how he makes his cheese and have an opportunity to taste some cheeses paired with local wines. This evening we relax and enjoy dinner on our own.

Day 6 : Le Mans Car Museum & Chartres Cathedral

Today we bid farewell to our home in Amboise and travel back to Paris. On the way, we visit the 24 Hours at Le Mans Car Museum. View Bentleys, Ferraris, Fords, Porches and more while we learn about this world famous automobile race.

As we draw closer to Paris, stopping to visit Chartres Cathedral is sure astound you. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Chartres Cathedral is an example of high French Gothic architecture complete with soaring spirals, flying buttresses, and an impressive rose window.

Late afternoon, we arrive at our Paris hotel for a restful night at leisure.

Day 7 : Paris

After a full breakfast buffet, the day is yours to explore this beautiful city. Your French guide will offer an optional tour of the city or you may explore on your own. Your Tour Director is available to assist in planning your day for making it truly memorable.

This evening, we enjoy a beautiful dinner cruise on the Seine River and truly enjoy the “City of Lights” ablaze in all her glory!

Day 8 : Fly Home

Fly home with memories to cherish from our time in Chateau Country.