Villages and Châteaux
Châtillon-sur-Indre
Loches
Châtillon is the nearest town, just a 10 minute drive and has lot’s of useful amenities including an Intermarché. There is a charming keep in the heart of the town which for €1pp (free for children under 12) you are given the key to the keep and freedom to roam which all adds to the charm!
Around 25 minutes away, the medieval town of Loches makes for an easy trip out and a must visit. With markets, cafe’s, eateries, a Chateaux, bike hire, river kayaking and a nearby 9 hole golf course, there’s options for everyone to enjoy a day out
Amboise
Tours
Ambois sits on the Loire river and has lots to offer. A stunning Chateaux with manicured gardens, the brilliant Leonardo Da Vinci museum where he lived his last years, a wonderful pâtisserie and ice cream shop, many great eateries and a number of localised vineyards in the area with casual stop in’s and tastings to more formal vineyard tours
Tours is the nearest city to the gites, due north on the Loire river and the old quarter area offers a really authentic experience. Typical architecture and great cuisine at every turn, it’s a real taste of the Loire region and a mini city break day out!
Valençay
Blois
Valençay is a little village known by two things, it’s incredible Chateaux and its quality local wines! We recommend trying a bottle which you can get at any supermarket in the Loire. We also recommend a trip to the Chateaux which in particular is famed for it’s incredible expansive gardens
Blois is a point of note for the market lovers! Blois holds markets on 3 days of the week and is arguably the best market in the Loire region. There’s plenty in the local area too if you want to make the most of the trip including a lovely Chateaux, riverside restaurants, a stunning church and the nearby town of Chambord, famed for it’s Champagne accompanying liqueur and it’s incredible Chateaux
Chenonceaux
Sancerre & Château de Sully-sur-Loire
Arguably the most beautiful château in all of France, Chenonceau sit’s quite literally on the Loire river and is a sight to behold. The L’Orangerie restaurant in the grounds is worth a visit in its own right and a trip on a boat under the Chateaux is a great tip for a glorious view and perfect photo opportunity!
With a single access over a bridge, Château de Sully-sur-Loiree, seems to float in the middle of the Loire. This lesser known Château is a real beauty and well worth a visit in our opinion. Sancerre is also in this East side of the Loire region and is one of the best wines produced in France, let alone the Loire. With an hour between the two, they can couple well for a day out as they are a little further afield