The Loire Valley...

As the Loire River runs west towards the Atlantic, enter this serene region of lush countryside, vineyards and sandy riverside beaches.

The climate is quite temperate all year 'round. There are an average of 270 sunny days annually, with spring and summer claiming the majority. Winter temperatures seldom fall below 5C (40F). Spring days tend to be 11C-16C on average (60s-70s F). Summers are lovely, sunny, warm and breezy, with lows averaging 18C (70F) and seldom above 25C (85F).

The region boasts a wealth of chateaux, cultural highlights, traditional markets and boutique shopping, fine dining, wine tasting and enough sporting activities to satisfy just about any visitor! Or, just relax into the gentle rhythm of the laid-back Loire Valley.

Your hosts' favourites:

Saumur (20 km)

Since we are mad about horses, we can't help but put Saumur first! This charming medieval city, situated on a beautiful stretch of the Loire, is the heart of ancient French military equestrian traditions. It is the home of the imposing Chateau de Saumur, intriguing local wines, memorable restaurants, chic boutiques and unique historical sites such as troglodyte cliff dwellings.

At École Nationale d'Équitation, the home of the National Riding School, you'll see the centuries-old pride of Saumur, the Cadre Noir, the crack-shot cavalry trainers of an earlier time. In addition to tours and performances by the Cadre Noir, international equestrian competitions are regular occurrences. Those who follow dressage, eventing and jumping can sit ringside while their favourite stars compete!

The Chateau, 15th century home of the Anjou kings, dominates Saumur from its hilltop setting. Begun in 1246, it is a rare example of 14th century architecture, which evolved at the end of the Middle Ages and foreshadowed the Renaissance style. The Chateau houses The Musée des Arts Décoratifs, (period tapestries and china), and the Musée du Cheval, which features bridles and saddles in an impressive collection that spans time and space.

The popular Musee des Blindes (Tank Museum) is a must-see favorite for many who visit Saumur.

Angers

Romance abounds. This is our favorite browsing and dining city! The imposing Chateau d'Angers, which, together with the towering Cathedral, is the centre of the Old Town and its half-timbered houses. There are lovely walking streets filled with bistros and boutiques. The world most popular liqueur, Cointreau, is produced here. Moreover, Anjou boasts a great number of wine producers, all offering tasting of the delightfully diverse local production.

Le Mans

Well-known for its famous 24 hour auto race, Le Mans has something for everyone to enjoy. Techno is king on the Bugatti track, but Le Mans maintains its ancient cultural traditions, too. Enveloped within high Gallo-Roman walls is the 13th century Abbaye de L'Epau and its vast Gothic Cathedral. Do not miss the medieval fortress/chateau de Lude, the only chateau in France uniting three architectural styles: medieval fortress, Italian Renaissance and French Classicism. Auto buffs - a must-see is the Musee de L'Automobile.