The most beautiful nature and cultural activities to do around the Loire Valley Châteaux
Less than two hours from Paris, the Loire Valley is a favorite destination for a luxury weekend near Paris . Between royal heritage, nature walks, and local gastronomy, the region offers a unique experience, especially when staying in a cozy country house with a fireplace . Here are the best activities to discover.
Explore the Loire Valley Castles
The Châteaux of the Loire Valley are not only architectural marvels, they are also places where you can live unique experiences, ideal for a luxury weekend near Paris .
Chambord, much more than a visit
Chambord Castle , one of the most iconic castles in the Loire Valley, offers a multitude of activities. Flying over the estate in a hot air balloon is an unforgettable experience, perfect for admiring the surrounding gardens and forests. On the ground, you can rent a bike to explore the paths, enjoy a boat ride to admire the castle from the canals, or even plan a picnic in the gardens .
In the fall, listening to the roar of the deer adds a wild dimension to the visit. The estate also hosts equestrian shows , concerts, and a variety of cultural events. And for horse riding enthusiasts, there's nothing like a horseback ride in the Chambord gardens to experience life as it was in the time of kings.
The other jewels of the valley
Chenonceau, Amboise, Cheverny, and Blois complete the experience. Each offers its own attractions—exhibitions, evening tours, and cultural events—making the Châteaux of the Loire Valley a must-see destination, both historic and vibrant.
Bike rides along the canal and the Loire
The Loire Valley is crisscrossed by magnificent cycle routes, including the famous Loire à Vélo . These safe and accessible routes make it an ideal activity for young and old, perfect for a weekend near Paris with the family .
The banks of the canal at Combreux
In Combreux , the banks of the canal have been converted into a comfortable, shaded cycle path . The flat, pleasant route is ideal for families with children. Everyone can cycle at their own pace, stopping to observe nature or sharing a snack by the water. This route then joins the Loire à Vélo route, allowing you to extend the adventure.
A friendly and accessible experience
The bike ride then becomes a true family activity : parents pedal peacefully while the children discover the joy of cycling in the countryside. Between impromptu picnics, gourmet breaks in the villages and cultural discoveries along the way, it's a simple and joyful moment that leaves precious memories for the whole family.
Taste the local terroir
The Loire Valley is also a gourmet destination. You can dine in numerous Michelin-starred restaurants that showcase local produce, or choose more traditional inns, ideal for tasting the authenticity of the local cuisine.
There are many regional specialties: goat cheeses like Crottin de Chavignol, Loire fish cooked in beurre blanc, or rillettes that go perfectly with a glass of wine. And of course, it's impossible to forget the region's great wines: Vouvray, Chinon, Sancerre , all prestigious names that make the valley's reputation.
A complete gastronomic experience
Between gourmet restaurants , convivial tables and tastings in troglodyte cellars, the region offers a range of experiences for all tastes. It is the promise of a weekend near Paris where heritage and gastronomy meet, in an atmosphere as warm as it is refined.
Wine tasting in the heart of the Loire Valley
It's impossible to visit the region without enjoying its renowned wineries and vineyards . The Loire is the largest vineyard in France, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers an incredible diversity of wines: elegant whites, fruity reds, fresh rosés, and even fine sparkling wines.
From family estates to more prestigious houses, wine tastings allow you to interact directly with winemakers and discover local expertise. Vouvray, Chinon, Saumur, and Sancerre are among the must-try appellations.
It is a sensory experience that perfectly complements a visit to the Châteaux of the Loire Valley , and transforms a luxury weekend near Paris into a true immersion in the French art of living.
Enjoy the comfort of a country house
After a day full of discoveries, nothing beats the warmth of a home with a fireplace near Paris . More intimate than a hotel, it allows you to enjoy your stay at your own pace, in complete freedom. Here, luxury lies in the simplicity and authenticity of a preserved setting.
The luxury of simplicity
Gathering around a fireplace, relaxing in the hammam after a walk, savoring the silence of the countryside... every moment becomes precious. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the house offers a true cocoon where time seems to stand still.
Create unique memories
Whether you're a couple, family or friends, this stay is a rare interlude where refinement and conviviality meet. Depending on the season, everyone can enjoy mushroom picking in the forest , go for a horse ride through the wooded paths or simply walk in the surrounding countryside thanks to the trails directly accessible from the house. These simple but unique experiences make each stay unforgettable.
