LOIRE VALLEY PRESS PACK
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2010
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
SUMMARY
WELCOME TO THE LOIRE VALLEY
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LOIRE VALLEY - FACT FILE
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WHAT’S NEW IN 2010?
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STAY SOMEWHERE NEW
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TOURS – EXPLORE THE CITY
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FAMILY CYCLING ALONG THE LOIRE
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CHATEAUX COUNTRY
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PARKS AND GARDENS
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FOOD AND WINE
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NATURE
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Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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WELCOME TO THE LOIRE VALLEY
Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the fairytale chateaux and landscaped parks of the Loire Valley region. More than 130 of its 800 chateaux are open to the public and 25 out of more than 130 parks and gardens have been awarded the prestigious label of ‘Jardins remarquables’. But magnificent stately homes aren’t the only reason to visit the Loire Valley region, an area made up of 6 departments – or counties – and bisected by France’s longest river. A 260km section of the Loire has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and the Loire à Vélo long distance cycle trail offers a delightful way to get back to nature and enjoy the unspoilt river banks, beautiful villages and historic cities. Less than an hour from Paris by train and easily accessible by car from the Channel ports, the region is also an increasingly popular short break destination. The historic city of Tours, for instance, is a delightful spot for a city break, built around the confluence of the Loire and Cher rivers and combining cultural attractions with great restaurants, speciality shopping and a vibrant arts and social scene. But don’t just take our word for it … come and see for yourself. Getting There: Direct flights: - London-Stansted to Tours with Ryanair 2 flights a week from 1 Jan to 27 March and 31 Oct to 31 Dec 4 flights a week from 28 March to 30 Oct -
Dublin to Tours with Ryanair 2 flights a week from 29 March to 28 Oct
By train: Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Nord or Lille and frequent connecting services (high-speed train or regional trains) to Tours, Blois and Orléans. By car: Ferry service to - Le Havre and Dieppe with LD Lines - St Malo with Brittany Ferries and Condor Ferries - Caen and Cherbourg with Brittany Ferries - Cherbourg (from Rosslare) with Irish Ferries and Celtic Link Ferries
Press Information: Frédérique Colin. Tel: 0033 (0)2 38 79 95 19. f.colin@visaloire.com - www.visaloire.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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LOIRE VALLEY - FACT FILE
Location: just an hour’s drive south of Paris Capital: Orléans Composed of six departments - the Cher department (18), the Eure-et-Loir department (28), the Indre department (36), the Indre-et-Loire department (37), the Loiret department (45) and the Loir-etCher department (41). Main cities: Blois (47,900 inhab), Bourges (70,800 inhab), Chartres (40,000 inhab), Châteauroux (47,500 inhab), Orléans (113,200 inhab), Tours (136,400 inhab) With 39,151 km², the Loire Valley is the size of Belgium Four Unesco listed properties: the Val de Loire area, the château de Chambord, the cathedrals of Bourges and Chartres Over 200 parks and 3 Regional Nature Parks Over 800 castles of which 134 are open to the public Eight villages which have gained the status of “France’s most beautiful villages” – Apremont-surAllier, Lavardin, Gargilesse-Dampierre, Saint Benoit-du-Sault, Candes-Saint-Martin, Crissay-sur-Manse, Montrésor and Yèvre-le-Châtel.
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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WHAT’S NEW IN 2010 HAPPY ANNIVERSARY 200th anniversary of the birth of Frederic Chopin Every summer for nearly ten years, Chopin visited the home of his lover George Sand at Le Domaine de Nohant in the Indre department. There he composed his most famous works. The Festival de Nohant will this year celebrate his extraordinary talent with 39 concerts between June 5thand August 1st, including recitals by pianist Aldo Ciccolini and Evgeny Kissin. The programme also includes literary events, music, discussions and conferences, most of them taking place in the Chopin Auditorium at George Sand’s home. www.festivaldenohant.fr 10th anniversary of the Open Air Opera Festival - Bizet’s Carmen at Château de Chambord (11 and 12 June) Enjoy Georges Bizet’s stirring music beneath a star-studded sky and against the spectacular backdrop of the magical Chateau de Chambord, for two nights only. Every year, the Open Air Opera Festival organises musical events at prestigious sites in France, promoting young singing talents, encouraging a wider public to enjoy their cultural heritage, and breathing new life into the classics. www.chambord.org 30th anniversary of Zooparc de Beauval From small beginnings as a collection of exotic birds at St Aignan, 30 minutes’ drive from Tours in the heart of Chateaux Country, the Zooparc de Beauval is now famous throughout Europe for its collections of unusual animals and its work with animal conservation and breeding programmes. Amongst the 4,000 residents are white lions and tigers, orang-utans, koalas and manatees. New for 2010 is an extension to the Asian Plain and a high level walkway enabling visitors to look down on the new arrivals - black and white Asian tapirs and a pair of rare Indian rhino. www.zoobeauval.com
LIVING HISTORY 29 May – Renaissance Festival at Château d’Anet in Eure-et-Loir The ashes of Diane de Poitiers will be returned to their rightful resting place this year as part of a colourful festival at her former home, the Château d’Anet in Eure-et-Loir. The commemoration and procession will be followed by a Renaissance fair and concluded in grand style by a magnificent firework display. The chateau was built in 1548 for Diane – mistress of Henri II - on the site of a mansion house belonging to her late husband. On the death of the king, Diane retired to Anet and died there seven years later, but in 1795, revolutionaries broke open her tomb and removed her body, which was thrown into a communal ditch in the cemetery. But in 2008, excavations beneath her memorial revealed bones that were identified as hers. www.chateaudanet.com 18 Sept to 10 Dec – Henri IV Exhibition at the Château de Sully-sur-Loire. Renowned for his religious tolerance – as well as his many mistresses – Henri IV was one of France’s best-loved kings, assassinated 400 years ago on 14 May 1610 by religious fanatic Ravaillac. Entitled Henri IV – from Navarre to France, this exhibition is on display at the château once owned by his prime minister, the Duc de Sully, and covers the early years of the Protestant prince; his life as king of France and Navarre; the assassination; and the legend that has grown up around him. Many artefacts on display are on loan from national and private collections. www.loiret.com Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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15 April to 15 August – Medieval food and table manners at Château de Langeais The castle was built in the 15th century on the orders of Louis XI, just a few metres from the atmospheric ruins of an 11th century fortress. Step back in time to discover the dishes and customs of medieval banquets and be prepared for a few surprises! A costumed ‘cook’ will be giving half-hour demonstrations of how tables were laid and dishes prepared in the home of the local lord. www.chateau-de-langeais.com
GOING GREEN The Antonin Garden at Château de Valençay open March 20th South-east of Tours and former home of the Prince of Talleyrand, minister to Napoleon, the Renaissance Château de Valençay unveils its new culinary garden this spring. Covering 600 square metres, the garden is dedicated to the great 19th century chef Antonin Carême, who worked for Talleyrand for 12 years, and will include 320 species of scented culinary plants. Ten ‘stop and sniff’ points will help visitors discover the origin of the different aromas. Pay a visit on your birthday and you’ll be given free entry to the chateau (proof required). www.chateau-valencay.fr Villandry gardens go organic A 15-km drive from Tours, the spectacular terraced gardens at Château de Villandry are the first in France on such a scale to go truly green. What started as organic treatment for the lime trees has now spread to the whole 8-hectare garden. Chemical treatments have been replaced by insects and rotational growing, resulting in huge changes in daily routine for the nine gardeners, who are now experts in the lifestyle and eating habits of both garden pests and friendly insects. A change to electric machinery has also meant less pollution and noise. www.chateauvillandry.com
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New spa in Chartres uses local plant-based products Opening this spring just a stone's throw from Chartres' world-renowned cathedral, Be By Monarque is a luxurious new spa attached to the prestigious Hotel du Grand Monarque. The wide range of health and beauty treatments uses products made from flax grown in the local area and developed in 'Cosmetic Valley' close to the city - the world's leading centre for the development of perfume and cosmetics. So while guests relax in beautiful surroundings designed with wood, stone and linen, these plant-based products are being kind to their skin and their environment at the same time. www.bw-grand-monarque.com. Discovery cruise with Les Passeurs de Loire Naturalists Bruno and Jean-Philippe build traditional boats which were once a common site on the Loire to carry both goods and people. Join them on a cruise back through time, daytime or evening, from their base at Sigloy, east of Orléans, to discover the history, traditions and natural heritage of the river. www.passeursdeloire.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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STAY SOMEWHERE NEW HOTELS Hôtel Ronsard, Tours Town centre location at affordable price (see Tours section, page 10). http://hotelronsard.com.
STYLISH B&Bs
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Le Clos Pasquier, Blois. After a year refurbishing their 16th century manor house on the edge of the Blois forest, Claire and Laurent Nicot welcomed the first guests to their ‘maison d’amis’ in 2009. Choose from two cosy rooms with showers on the first floor; a double suite with kitchenette in a separate building; and a family suite with a private garden. Furnishings are entirely in keeping with the property and an old barn is now a beamed living room. 10-12 Impasse de l’Orée du Bois 41000 Blois. www.leclospasquier.fr Le Château de Chanteloire, near Blois. Enjoy elegant living on the outskirts of Blois and within easy reach of Amboise and Chambord, in an 18th century chateau, completely restored in 2008. The five individually styled guest rooms and suites have wonderful views over the peaceful 3-hectare park, and first opened to guests in June 2009. Route du Chanlon, 41150 Chouzy-sur-Cisse. www.chateau-de-chanteloire.com Langeais Rêveur, Langeais. Fabrice Geffroy and Stephane Bretagne have opened three charming rooms and a suite for four above their home decoration shop, L’Ange est Rêveur, right opposite the 15th century castle. So visitors can enjoy the rooms and then recreate the style in their own homes. Free wifi in every room. 5 Place Pierre de Brosse 37130 Langeais. www.langeaisreveur.fr La Baumoderie, Panzoult. In the heart of Touraine, close to the castles of Azay-le-Rideau and Chinon, restored farm cottages with independent entrance offer a large ground floor room for 2-3 and an upstairs suite for two couples or a family. Cottage-style courtyard garden and peaceful location. 17 rue d’Etilly, 37220 Panzoult. http://labaumoderie.fr La Villa Tatin, Lamotte-Beuvron. Opened in 2009, this new B&B in the Sologne area south of Orléans is the former home of Caroline and Stéphanie Tatin who created the famous Tarte Tatin apple tart at their hotel-restaurant. Built in 1901, it has been entirely renovated and offers three bedrooms, all named after apples, and a large garden. 9 avenue de Vierzon 41600 Lamotte-Beuvron. www.villatatin.com Le Domaine de Montizeau, Lailly en Val. Between Orléans and Blois in the heart of chateau country, Jacqueline Abeille offers four bedrooms in the converted stables of a traditional longhouse, with guest living room and table d’hôte dinner on reservation. Shady park of 2.5 hectares and secure parking. Moncay 45740 Lailly en Val. www.domaine-montizeau.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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UNUSUAL ACCOMMODATION Wooden cabins and tree houses on stilts at Le Manoir du Parc, Amboise In the heart of Amboise, just a few minutes from the Château Royal, Odile and Frédéric offer quality accommodation with a difference in the tranquillity of a large park shaded with ancient trees. Choose from: - 3 luxurious tree houses on stilts, 3 metres above the ground. Each with double bed, toilet, private Jacuzzi, kitchenette, and terrace. - a suite with double bedroom, Jacuzzi, hamman, living room and washing machine/dishwasher. - a gîte with two bedrooms, Jacuzzi and sauna. - 4 B&B rooms on the first floor of the manor house with view of the park or Royal Chateau. Heated outdoor pool and a range of optional extras including bike hire, massage, and cookery courses. 8 avenue Léonard de Vinci, 37400 Amboise. www.manoirparc.com Le Jardin des Lierres – a cosy forest treehouse at Vouzon At the end of a track in the heart of the Sologne forest, this log cabin offers a tranquil and romantic hideaway for two - 4m above the ground at the top of a wooden staircase. Built of pine from the forest, this lofty cabin has a double bed and dry toilet (with private shower and toilet facilities nearby), plus heating, a fridge and high-level terrace with table and chairs. Expect a bottle of local wine on arrival and yoghurt from the neighbouring farm for breakfast which is delivered by means of a rope pulley. Owner Nicholas de Guillebon is a snail farmer who supplies restaurants and sells his produce from the farm – just ask for a guided tour! www.jardin-des-lierres.fr Les Roulottes du Berry – gypsy-style caravans at Lignières An entire holiday village of 50 static caravans will be the focal point this year of Le Pôle du Cheval et de l’Ane en Berry – a major equestrian sports centre in the Cher department, which is also a conservation centre for the Large Black donkey in Berry. Rated 3-star, the modern gypsy-style caravans will together offer 200 adult beds, with guests also having use of a communal room with bar and television. Activities on site will include carriage excursions and the chance to go walking with a donkey companion, with a programme of equestrian and environmental activities planned for the coming months. The caravans will welcome their first guests in May and will be followed by the opening, in late 2010 of a conservation centre for the seven native breeds of French donkey. www.roulottesduberry.com.
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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TOURS – EXPLORE THE CITY Why Visit
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An important trading centre in Roman times, Tours was capital of France in the 15th and 16th centuries and is widely regarded as the home of the French language. Kings and aristocracy built elegant chateaux and town houses from local white tufa topped with slate tiles, turning the Touraine area into a centre of Renaissance art. It also has a vibrant contemporary feel, with a wide choice of cultural events and amenities – a great base for a city break or exploring the Loire Valley. It’s also a very green city, blessed with parks, gardens and of course those picturesque riverside walks. Tours is also fast becoming a gastronomic stopover. A number of talented young chefs have recently opened their own city centre restaurants and the Maison des Vins de Loire - opening in May - will become a shop window and discovery centre for the areas many AOC wines. Meanwhile, the town’s signature speciality dish, Les Rillettes de Tours – a coarse blend of slow-cooked shredded pork eaten with crusty bread – has also just been awarded IGP status (Indication Géographique Protégée) – see page 22, “Food & Wine” section.
Heritage sites
The old town lies between the Loire and the Cher river. Don’t miss: - St Gatien Cathedral and the Psalette Cloister - St Martin Basilica - Place Plumereau – a picturesque square fringed with half-timbered houses, cafes and tempting boutiques. - Le Musée des Beaux-Arts – fine art housed in the sumptuous surroundings of the former bishops’ palace. - Le Musée du Compagnonnage – a celebration of the traditional skills practised by the town’s Guilds and master craftsmen.
Getting about New this summer from the Tourist Office is an audio-guide in English. Highlights of the 2hour pedestrian circuit include the contemporary Vinci congress centre, historic Plumereau Square, and St Gatien cathedral (Tourist Office: www.tours-tourisme.fr). Don’t want to walk? Freemove offer accompanied tours by segway – simply stand on the footplate and the electric machine does the rest (www.freemove.fr). Or take a tour with Cyclopolitain, the first company in France to offer chauffeur tours in the latest electric tricycles (www.cyclopolitain.com). New for 2010, independent chateau-enthusiasts can enjoy reduced entry at a choice of 20 top sites in the Loire Valley by ordering a Chateau Pass online at www.tours-tourisme.fr - simply select your favourite sites and book your discounted tickets. Or let new company Luxury Tours take you round in a private car for 2 to 4 people – daily departures from the Tourist Office. www.luxurytours.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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Eating Out
Several talented young chefs, trained in prestigious establishments, have recently opened their own gastronomic restaurants in Tours; - Olivier Arlot – ‘Olivier Arlot’. Young chef from Tours ranked among the ‘Six stars of the future’ in the 2010 Gault & Millau guide. www.restaurantolivierarlot.com - Hervé Chardonneau – ‘Casse Cailloux’. Gourmet bistro with menu on a slate. www.casse-cailloux.fr. - Akrame Benallal – ‘L’Atelier d’Akrame’. Culinary surprises at 18 place de la Resistance (tel +33 247 34 02 55 – no website). - Benoît Pasquier – ‘Le Saint Honoré’. Acclaimed chef from Chartres now in a former bakery at 7 place des Petites Boucheries near the cathedral (tel. +33 247 61 93 82) - Julien Perraudin – ‘Le Barju’. Fish and seafood at affordable prices from an acclaimed young Breton chef. www.barju.fr
Staying Over
Hôtel Ronsard, 2 rue Pimbert – town centre location at a modest price Just behind the theatre and less than 10 minutes walk from the station, this 2-star hotel opened in Summer 2009 after extensive refurbishment. The 20 bedrooms offer great value for money, with doubles starting from €59 for Standard category and €72 for Superior. Owners Mr & Mrs Savary welcome guests on bicycles and offer secure cycle storage in the heart of the old town. www.hotel-ronsard.com Citéa Tours, 41 rue Edouard Vaillant. Opened last October, Citea Tours offers 99 spacious, modern apartments sleeping up to four people. Just a few minutes’ walk from both the commercial area and the city centre, they are ideal for both business visitors and families visiting Tours and the Loire chateaux. www.citea.com
Shopping
Love markets? Visit the Marché des Halles (open air food market) and the Marché aux Fleurs (flower market) on Wednesday and Saturday; the covered food market of Les Halles, every day except Sunday afternoon and all day Monday; and the food and clothing market of Marché Velpeau on Sunday morning. The first Sunday in September sees the town centre transformed into one huge open air market, La Braderie. Rue Nationale is the town’s main shopping street, whilst lovers of antiques and interiors should head for Rue de la Scellerie.
Get the buzz
Tours hosts all kinds of music and arts events from classical music to theatre and dance, jazz music to pop concerts. It also boasts one of the biggest art and experimental cinema complexes in France – Studio cinemas. There’s a buzz of a different kind in summer at the guinguette café below Wilson Bridge where you can enjoy food and open air dancing. Or join in the fun at a food and wine festival such as the Vitiloire celebration of Loire Valley wines (May 29/30) and the Garlic & Basil Fair in July.
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 10 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
AROUND TOURS Principle city of the Touraine region, Tours lies on the western fringes of the Loire Valley - a great base for exploring the historic towns and chateaux along the Loire and Cher rivers. The following suggestions are all easy excursions from Tours. Fairytale castles and magical gardens Château de Villandry – house and gardens West of Tours, the gardens at Villandry are amongst the most famous in the Loire Valley, perfectly reflecting the elegant Renaissance architecture of the Chateau. Awarded a Quality Tourism Classification by the Minister of Tourism in late 2009, Villandry will be staging 3 art exhibitions between March and November 2010, and 5 garden events from June to September. www.chateauvillandry.com Château d’Azay-le-Rideau The Château of Azay-le-Rideau lies to the south-west of Tours and was built in 1515 on the site of a small fortified castle on an island in the river Indre. A glorious mix of French and Italian Renaissance styles, it has corner turrets and a circular walk along the external walls in true medieval tradition. The interior is richly furnished with tapestries and fine art. New this summer, an evening show with animals for all the family. http://azay-le-rideau.monumentsnationaux.fr/en/ Chaumont-sur-Loire garden festival East of Tours on the way to Blois, the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire will be hosting its 19th International Garden Festival from 29 April to 17 October. Twenty showcase gardens have been selected by a jury – including one from England – out of more than 300 international entries. (see page 18, “Parks and Gardens” section). Château de Chenonceau One of the most photographed castles in the Loire Valley, Chenonceau spans the river Cher, to the east of Tours, and is often referred to as the ‘Château des Dames’. Diane de Poitiers, mistress of Henri II, had to give the castle to his wife, Catherine de Medicis, on the king’s death, and both women were responsible for its romantic architecture – Diane for the fivearch bridge and Catherine for the gallery above. www.chenonceau.com - 25 minutes from Tours by TER train; 34 km by road.
Atmospheric towns Loches A 45-minute drive south of Tours, the medieval city of Loches stands on the river Indre beneath a fortified cliff. Visit the chateau where Henry II of England and his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine established the Plantagenet court in the 12th century and enjoy a bird’s eye view from the ramparts that still encircle the medieval town. www.chateau-loches.fr Amboise Twenty km east of Tours - and accessible by train – the Château Royal at Amboise offers great views over the Loire and the surrounding countryside from its strategic position on a promontory above the Loire. See the castle from a different perspective on a guided tour of the underground passageways and the towers of the medieval fortress, and visit Leonardo Da Vinci’s grave in the restored chapel. www.chateau-amboise.com. Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 11 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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Then, just 500 metres from the royal castle, visit Le Clos Lucé, final home of Leonardo Da Vinci who lived there from 1515 until his death in 1519 at the invitation of François 1. See models of 40 machines that he invented, including the first car and paddle steamer; visit his bedroom, kitchen and apartments; and tour the park to discover life-size machines and 32 transparent panels depicting a variety of his intricate drawings. www.closluce.com Set back from the north bank of the river, the Château de Blois - was the principal royal residence of 7 kings and 10 queens, and the Royal Apartments give a vivid idea of life in the Renaissance period. The contrast between court festivities and the political crimes of the late 16th century are the subject of a major new exhibition - Festivities and crimes during the Renaissance, the Court of Henri III of France - which runs from May 8 to Aug 25 2010. Enjoy a different perspective on the town from a horse-drawn carriage or a traditional river boat or futreau. www.chateaudeblois.fr Orléans East of Tours at the Loire’s most northerly point, the regional capital of Orléans was home to Renaissance dukes rather than kings, and is most famous for its associations with Joan of Arc, ‘Maid of Orléans’ who liberated the city from the English in 1429. Visit Sainte-Croix cathedral, built across six centuries, and the red-brick mansion of Hôtel Groslot opposite, one the town hall and now a venue for weddings and civic functions with ornate rooms housing carved furniture, rich wall coverings and multiple reminders of Jeanne d’Arc. A short tram ride from the city centre, the 35-hectare Parc Floral at Orléans-la-Source was laid out in 1967 for the Floralies Internationales flower festival. Stroll the shady avenues, visit the aviary and butterfly house, and see where the Loiret river bubbles out of the ground. Visit in late spring to see the national iris collection in bloom and in early summer for the magnificent rose gardens. www.parc-floral-la-source.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 12 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
FAMILY CYCLING ALONG THE LOIRE The French passion for cycling is known the world over thanks to the gruelling Tour de France road race, but you don’t need to wear tight lycra and work up a sweat to enjoy getting out on two wheels. Cycling is a popular leisure activity for French families and nowhere more so than along ‘La Loire à Vélo’ cycle trail (www.loire-a-velo.fr). Launched in 1995, the route will eventually include some 800 km of cycle tracks alongside the Loire and its tributaries, from Cuffy - near Nevers - in the east, to St Brévin-les-Pins on the Atlantic coast.
Every year, new sections are opened and the route now covers more than 650 km with a mix of dedicated cycle tracks and quiet country roads, all clearly signposted. With two-thirds of the trail hugging the river banks, there are no hills to tire out little legs, but there are plenty of rest areas along the way should you need a breather – more than 300 by the time the route is completed. Some sections are particularly recommended for family cycling – check them out on the website – but the whole route offers a safe and relaxing way for active families to explore the landscape and lifestyle of the Loire Valley - Europe’s last untamed river - designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Watch the wildlife at close quarters; explore pretty villages and historic towns; and learn how the river has influenced the life of local communities across the centuries. You can even stop off for a family swim in the largest natural bathing area in France. Open from June to September at Mont-près-Chambord, its warm water is purified using plants and water jets rather than chemicals. A number of discovery loops branch off the main riverside trail, including the Chateau Country Route (Pays des Châteaux à Vélo), which offers 12 different circuits totalling more than 300 km (www.chateauxavelo.com). Cyclists can choose from more than 40 audio commentaries to download free of charge for sites along both La Loire à Vélo and Châteaux à Vélo trails – see the website for details.
History lessons come to life If you’re cycling with children, you’ll find many chateaux and gardens that make a special effort to welcome younger visitors: •
Château de Chenonceau. A 45-minute Ipod tour in English targets 7- to 12-year-olds with the adventures of a fun character through different periods of the castle’s history. Adventure playground and park. www.chenonceau.com
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Château de Langeais. Puzzle book for children in English. www.chateau-delangeais.com
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Château d’Amboise. A leaflet in English shows 7- to 14-year-olds what life was like for the French royal children. www.chateau-amboise.com.
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 13 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
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Easy pedalling for all ages
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Château de Chambord. English audio guide for children and puzzle/activity book for 8to 12-year-olds. Take a ride in a flat bottomed boat, ride your bike through the park, and watch a display by costumed horse riders between May and September. www.chambord.org
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Château de Cheverny. See the chateau portrayed in the Tintin comic strip books by Hergé, visit the Tintin exhibition, and test your observation with the puzzle book in English. Glide down the canal in an electric boat. www.chateau-cheverny.fr
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Château de Fougères sur Bièvre. A quiz leaflet in English helps children discover the secrets of one of the oldest castles in the Loire, built as a fortress in the 15th century http://fougeres-sur-bievre.monuments-nationaux.fr
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La Maison de la Magie, Blois. Prepare to be amazed as you discover the art of magicians across the ages at the House of Magic, close to the Royal Chateau. Watch the 45-minute show. www.maisondelamagie.fr
Bike hire If you don’t want to bring your own bikes, take the train from Paris to Tours, Blois or Orleans and rent your wheels from one of 15 hire centres which offer high-quality bikes, accessories, and advice to holidaymakers. And you don’t have to do a round trip either - many centres allow you to deposit your bikes further along the route.
Staying over
Don’t want to carry your bags on the bike? A luggage transportation service is guaranteed by several bicycle-hire outlets as well as by more than 150 accommodation establishments accredited with the "Accueil Vélo" label – visit www.loire-a-velo.fr to download or order brochures. This network of campsites, hotels, gîtes and guest houses offers accommodation adapted to cyclists with secure bike storage, minor repair equipment, and that all-important baggage service. A further 10 B&Bs and 15 hotels have been accredited for 2010 with more coming on line all the time; download the brochure from www.visaloire.com
Pedal packages If you’d rather let someone else do the organising, the Loire Valley Travel agency - leading French cycling tourist agency for 20 years - offers packages throughout the Loire Valley ranging from 3 to 8 days and including baggage transport, cycle hire, maps and routes, and a choice of accommodation options. Tel: 00 33 (0)2 54 78 62 52 – www.randovelo.fr
Further information: a press kit (in English) on “La Loire à Vélo” 2010 can be downloaded at www.visaloire.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 14 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
CHATEAUX COUNTRY Follow the twists and turns of the River Loire and discover the châteaux of the Loire Valley. From medieval fortresses to Renaissance châteaux, every one of them has a fascinating story to tell. If the great châteaux were once the Kings’ residences, some smaller ones can now become your home for a few nights!
NEW! The new website www.loire-chateaux.org presents each of the 19* most important châteaux of the Loire Valley. There is a webpage for each one which provides all relevant information: cultural programmes, practical details (opening hours, access…) and suggestions of accommodation and restaurants as well as other sightseeing in the area. The site will be translated into English by Spring 2010. The “châteaux de la Loire” pass allows you to discover several châteaux at a reduced price. Why visit only one château when you can visit several in a few days? From this summer, the main Loire Valley tourist offices will sell combined tickets for 19 châteaux at a reduced price. You can buy a predefined pass (for at least 2 châteaux) or a pass “à la carte” (for as many as you wish at your choice). Together with the pass, you will be given a booklet of coupons offering reductions for products in the shops of participating châteaux or tourist offices (Orléans, Valençay, Blois, Val d’Amboise, Tours, Chinon, Langeais, Loches, Saumur and Angers). *Château de Sully-sur-Loire, Château de Valençay, Domaine national de Chambord, Château de Cheverny, Château Royal de Blois, Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, Château Royal d’Amboise, Château du Clos Lucé à Amboise, Château de Chenonceau, Château et jardins de Villandry, Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, Château de Langeais, Forteresse Royale de Chinon, Cité Royale de Loches, Abbaye de Fontevraud, Château de Saumur, Cadre Noir de Saumur, Château d’Angers, Château des ducs de Bretagne à Nantes.
P.Gleizes
The royal fortress of Chinon has been completely renovated A principal site of the history of France, it occupies an exceptional place on a rocky spur overlooking the Vienne river. The remarkable fortifications extend for more than 500 meters. Strong points are Fort St George, Fort of the Coudray and the château du Milieu, the royal residence. The passage of time has necessitated the preservation and restauration of the site. After 4 years of architectural research and 6 years of restauration by the local authorities (Conseil Général d’Indre-et-Loire) who are the owners of the site, the fortress has refund its original splendor. From July 2010, visitors can see 150 meters of renewed remparts, the royal residence, the keep of Coudray which has found back its defense and military aspects. There are also new buildings including a heritage centre and a museum of Joan of Arc together with a modern visitor centre (in the Fort St Georges) using state of the art interactive technology such as hightened reality, audio commentaries, creative lighting, 3D displays. www.forteresse-chinon.fr The Château de Chambord is the largest of the Loire Châteaux and was Francis I's hunting lodge. One of its best-known architectural features is its spectacular open staircase consisting of two helices such that two people can climb the stairs without ever meeting one another. From 19th April to 12th September, there is an exhibition by Manolo Valdès of a selection of original works mixing bronze and wooden sculptures, paintings and engravings displayed inside and outside the château. Every night, a “son et lumière” called “Chambord, rêves de lumière” brings the façade of the château to life such as it was at the time of the Renaissance, when the monument was an immense construction site, then became a halt for the court of Francis I, a hunting lodge and a location for festivities and balls. www.chambord.org
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 15 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
Evening shows in the châteaux Sound and Light at the royal Château de Blois (April to September) The Château de Blois was the principal royal residence of seven kings and ten queens. At nightfall, a sound and light show that takes place in the courtyard relates the important moments in the life of the royal château that marked the history of France. Love, drama and mystery punctuate the life of the kings and queens of France during the Renaissance: Louis XII, Francis I, Catherine de Medici and her son Henry III. English version takes place on Wednesday evenings. www.chateaudeblois.fr A romantic stroll in the gardens of the Château de Chenonceau (June to August) Visitors can discover the “jardins illuminés”: shade and light scenes on the chateau and in the gardens of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici accompanied by the music of Arcangelo Corelli, the master of classical Italian music. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in June and every night from 24th July to 31st August. www.chenonceau.com NEW!! Evening show with animals at the Château of Azay-le-Rideau (July and August) Built on an island, the Château of Azay-le-Rideau is a mixture of two great styles - French and Italian Renaissance. The water surrounding the château, the corner turrets and the circular walk along the external walls were architectural features taken from the medieval tradition. A new evening tour will take place every evening in July and August: a lively show involving animals for the whole family! http://azay-le-rideau.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/
Les Nuits des Mille Feux (the night of a thousand fireworks) at the château and gardens of Villandry (2&3 July) The gardens, illuminated by 2,000 candles, assume a cloak of shadows and lights which will unveil the poetic aspect of the place. Fantastic fireworks, acrobats and music make for two nights the gardens even more magical. Unforgettable! www.chateauvillandry.com
CRT Centre _ C.Mouton
Promenade under the stars in the gardens of the royal Château d’Amboise (2 July to 20 August) «Les rêves d’enfance des rois» (« The childhood dreams of the kings ») is an original artistic creation mixing audiovisual effects such as voices, lights, music and video. It takes place on Fridays from 2nd July to 20th August. The château d’Amboise was the residence of the royal court during the Renaissance. It was also the birthplace of the royal children and the place where they were brought up. Charles VIII, Francis I and the children of Henry II and Catherine de Medici stayed there to shelter from epidemics and political tumults. On the terraces, there are exceptionnal illuminations and sounds recall the crys and the games of the little princes and princesses. www.chateau-amboise.com
Candlelight visits at the château de Valençay (24th July and 7th August) Two exceptional evenings for the whole family: 3000 candles illuminate the château and the park, to the sound of trumpets, 40 actors in costume, a jazz quintet, an orchestra of 95 musicicans, show in the small theatre of the château, coach rides and final firework display. www.chateau-valencay.fr Evening visits at the Château du Clos Lucé (13th to 15th August) Evening visits in the gardens of this manor house last home of Leonardo da Vinci illuminated by candles. www.vinci-closluce.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 16 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
Where to stay in a château 20th Anniversary!! The Bienvenue au Château network was created in the early 1990s by the Regional Tourist Boards of Brittany, Normandy, the Western Loire, Poitou-Charentes, and Loire Valley. The original idea was to provide a guidebook to a clientele fascinated by history and culture designed to help them find accommodation in private homes of outstanding architectural merit. The bed & breakfast service is provided in private residences, i.e. in houses whose principal function is that of a private home. Not only do the owners extend a personal welcome, they also share the intimacy of their homes in a warm and friendly atmosphere. www.bienvenue-au-chateau.com NEW!! The château de Chanteloire (near Blois) See page 7 « Stay Somewhere new » Stay at the château de la Verrerie near Vendôme Cosy, charming, romantic, there are countless superlatives to describe the Chateau de la Verrerie. Eight years have been necessary to restore the chateau, its owner Bruno, former photographer and advertising executive has spent years digging out antiques to decorate this chateau. He will be only to happy to provide you with a list of some restaurants and tips for visits and can organise a massage in your room on request. Last but not least, there is WiFi access in the chateau. Enjoy the serenity of the park by strolling in the vegetable garden and the orchards. www.chateaudelaverrerie.fr The château des Arpentis Located in a former Seigneury and fully restored in 2007 – 2008, the chateau des Arpentis offers a luxury accommodation near Amboise. All of the rooms have a different charming decoration, with murals and tapestries. A family room is available in a spacious space under the eaves. Prices vary between 130 € and 350 € and breakfast is included. www.chateaudesarpentis.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 17 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
PARKS AND GARDENS Twenty-six exceptional gardens, from those inspired by the Middle Ages to more contemporary styles. Primarily famous for its Chateaux, the Loire Valley is also an enchanted land, with a long-lasting tradition of creating. Whether they are not-so-secret ones like those of the Chateau de Chenonceau or less known places, these 26 (“tourist friendly”) gardens are exceptionnal. They symbolise both traditional and contemporary artistic visions and illustrate the French way of life. The seasons make them very different so every one of your visits will allow you to discover them as if for the first time. Roses bloom in June in the Jardins de Roquelin and root vegetables at the Chateau de Valmer will be ready to harvest in October…
L.. Savignac
Medieval gardens The Château d’Ainay le Vieil, a castle with moats, ramparts all dating from the Middle Ages, the home of the same family since 1467. From these times date the gardens of Chartreuses unchanged with perennials, sculpted orchards, old roses varieties and flowers in profusion... http://chateau.ainaylevieil.free.fr. On the former Celtic farm of Bois Richeux - one of the oldest farms in France – a medieval area has been created to heal both soul and body. It is made of herbs, condiments and medicinal plants. The Bois Richeux gardens (bought by Louis XIV and Madame de Maintenon at the 17th Century) are a spiritual journey into the symbolism of the Middle Ages. www.boisricheux.com An air of spirituality also surrounds the Prieuré de Notre Dame d’Orsan. This historical monument is a 12th century abbey surrounded by contemporary gardens inspired by the Middle Ages. The paths along the cloister, elevated flowerbeds and arbours inspire spiritual contemplation. Notre Dame d’Orsan also offers a high standard bed and breakfast complete with a restaurant where the dishes tell you the story of plants and condiments. www.prieuredorsan.com At Thiron-Gardais, young and old are invited to solve riddles in the themed gardens of this 12th century abbey and to discover in an amusing way the work of Benedictines monks of this period. www.perchethironnais.com
Renaissance gardens At the château de Chenonceau, one of the best known, the art of gardening has found the most beautiful spot to express itself. Architecture and landscape are closely linked. At Chenonceau, we find the perfect balance between stone, water and plants. The architectural gardens, those of Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici and the maze, reflects perfectly the history of the chateau. Throughout the year, floral displays made by the chateau floral arrangers decorate the room. www.chenonceau.com With its Italian-style terraces, the Château de Valmer offers a great panorama over Touraine. Florentine fountains, Renaissance statues, stairways and balustrades accompany flowers fruits and vegetables. The botanist and owner Alix de St Venant organises events all year round to share her passion for gardens and help you discover 900 species every season. www.chateaudevalmer.com The most « Renaissance » of the Loire Valley gardens is without doubt that of Villandry. The art of gardening reaches its apogee, meticulous work throughout the year provides stunning results. The fame of Villandry is due to the exceptionnal combination of gardens in terraces set on 3 levels. Viewed from the top of the terraces, we can appreciate the rigor and beauty of the composition... closer up we can admire all the charm and subtilities. www.chateauvillandry.com Based on archives from the 17th century, the Renaissance gardens of the château de Chamerolles whose design was inspired by the proprietor’s visit to Italy provides an amazing diversity of scents. With its maze, the rare plants square and the vegetable gardens full of aromatic herbs and medicinal plants, the gardens are an invitation for visitors to the discovery of perfumes. http://www.jardins-de-france.com/Jard_Fr_21/Jardins-du-chateau-de-Chamerolles.html
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 18 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
Artistic and unusual gardens The Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire: a world renowned international garden festival, a contemporary art centre and a château all in one place! Best known for its famous International Garden Festival, the Domaine de Chaumont combines heritage, art and nature with its Château, stables, outbuildings, landscaped park and its unique location overlooking the Loire River. This fairytale Château was once the residence of queens and the kings’ mistresses. Visiting the luxury stables in the park is a must: created by Hermès in the 19th century they are unique in France. The 19th International Garden Festival (29 April – 17th October 2010). The festival attracts the best in garden design and includes interventions from leading architects, designers, and artists as well as landscape architects and garden designers. This year, the theme of the festival will be `Body and soul’ gardens. The garden is a place of well-being, of restfulness described by the Ancients and above all it is « the place where you feel well ». Acting on all the senses, it is a place of supreme peace and serenity: a perfect place for contemplation and stimulation of the imagination. It is also the place that gives life to the plants that care for the body, and more generally medicinal herbs, aromatic plants, and herbs for use as garnishing. The garden creates medicines, but also ointments, perfumes, and flavours. Twenty gardens have been selected by the jury, from more than 300 entries from all over the world. England, Germany, Italy, Japan and The Netherlands are represented in this year’s festival. With « Jardins de lumière », an original lighting concept in the Festival’s terrain, the visitor will be invited to take an unprecedented night-time promenade through the lit gardens. A Centre for contemporary creation and a crossroads for cultural events. The aim of the centre for contemporary art is to stimulate contemporary creation, particularly the visual arts, by regularly inviting an artist to take the château into his/her hands. A series of exhibitions are organized throughout the year. Sculptors, painters and photographers will display their work focused on the theme of Nature in artistic creation. www.domaine-chaumont.fr
At the Chateau du Rivau, the 12 fairytale gardens evoke the wonderful stories and legends that literature has provided: Gargantua's Kitchen Garden, the Enchanted Forest, the Flowery Meadow, the Petit Poucet's Path, etc. Le Rivau also has the ambition to exhibit today's art creation. It presents a new approach to the visit of this private historical site. Every year, two artists are invited to display a piece of art that starts a dialogue with the permanent collection. www.chateaudurivau.com
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The artistic gardens of Drulon last year celebrated the 10th year of opening. Each year six contemporary scenes are illustrated using flowers and sculptures. It is difficult not to be surprised by these unusual gardens that provoke a mixture of emotions. Art lovers will appreciate the harmony created between natural spaces and sculptures. Over 50 artists are invited to submit modern and contemporary sculptures for inclusion in the 17 hectares of gardens. www.drulon.com
On the edge of Amboise forest, the Pagode de Chanteloup is a 18th century “folly” evoking a civilisation. This 44 meter high `chinoiserie’ offers a view over the Loire Valley and is surrounded by a 14-hectare landscaped park of Asian inspiration. The garden of Fû His has got oriental species and ornaments that are an invitation to medidate. www.pagode-chanteloup.com
Writers gardens
At the Domaine de George Sand (south of the Loire Valley), the famous French novelist composed a real work of art around her house. Literature and nature are intimately related. As you step out of the house, rosebushes, fruit trees and flowerbeds described in her novels are there to behold. You will feel the unique romantic atmosphere as you walk through the picturesque wood leading to the pond. http://maison-george-sand.monuments-nationaux.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 19 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
D. Chauveau
Thematic gardens
A number of 20th-century French authors (among them Hervé Bazin) stayed at the Manor of Le Grand Courtoiseau. French-style gardens, Italian style ponds and Asian undergrowth offer exotic contrasts. This year the contemporary metal sculptures of Gill will be exhibited in the gardens highlighting the harmony between art and plants. www.grand-courtoiseau.com
Sensory gardens
At the Jardins de la Châtonnière, a series of twelve enchanting terraced gardens were created: gardens of Silence, Senses, Intelligence, Abundance, Romances, Fragrances, Elegance, etc… They vary in style and atmosphere and awaken the senses. One is struck with admiration by the beauty of the designs, and the heady perfume of the 4000 planted roses. In 2008 two new gardens were created, of which the Garden of Luxuriance exclusively planted with David Austin English roses! www.lachatonniere.fr
English-style gardens
Around a lake in a valley, grassy footpaths are an invitation for a rustic walk through an informal landscaped park of 30,000 m². At the Jardin du Plessis Sasnières, roses, perennials and annuals flower there in turn all through the season. Here are the ingredients that make of this garden the most romantic one of the Loire Valley! www.jardin-plessis-sasnieres.fr For twenty years the owners of the Jardin de La Mardelle have put all their passion into transforming an ancient quarry wasteland into an English-style garden and park. Peace and quiet and simplicity reign in this informal landscaped garden. A pause beside the lake feels like the natural thing to do. There are two collections of herbaceous and shrubby peonies, as well as ancient and English roses. The park has four gardens, one of which contains plants from Chile. www.jardins-de-france.com
Châteaux gardens At the end of a 2 km avenue lined with plane trees and two-century old chestnut trees, the château de Bouges - the “Petit Trianon” of the Loire Valley ! - stands in its XVIIIth century grace. In the immediate vicinity lie French-style gardens restructured in the last century by the famous landscape gardener Achille Duchêne, borders of boxwood and yew trees pruned into cone shapes. A flower garden situated not far from the château has been listed as a “remarkable” garden since 2007. www.monumentsnationaux.fr
Collection gardens The Parc Floral de La Source welcomed the international flower show on its creation in 1964. 2.300.000 visitors came there during six months. Since 1994 this city park has been renovated with the creation of a butterfly greenhouse, the rose garden but also the remarkable collection of iris gathering no less than 1000 varieties. www.parc-floral-la-source.com
CRT Centre _ C.Mouton
At the Château de Cheverny that inspired Herge for his Tintin comics, a new ornamental and pleasure garden stretches from the château to the orangery. This modern garden covers ground that was once a French-style formal garden, the plans of which are still kept at Cheverny. As for the vegetable garden it provides the bouquets to decorate the château. This is the most colourful of gardens, an open air kaleidoscope of blooms and vegetables. Its contemporary design makes original use of a variety of coloured materials. www.chateau-cheverny.fr
The château d’Azay le Ferron has one of France’s finest collections of sculpted trees with decorative shapes that form a chessboard. www.chateau-azay-le-ferron.com At the Arboretum des Grandes Bruyères, an oasis in the forest of Orléans, 4500 bushes have been planted depending on their place of origin. Heathers are displaying their varied colours among national collections of dogwoods and magnolias. www.arboretumdesgrandesbruyeres.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 20 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
At the Arboretum des Barres - Arbofolia, we can find unusual trees. Former property of the Vilmorin family, the Arboretum got richer with the discoveries of famous botanists. Nowadays it gathers one of the most varied euopean collections of trees from all over the world. www.arboretumdesbarres.com Les jardins de Roquelin will remind you of your grandmother’s garden. In the purest Loire tradition, roses are ominipresent. There are over 400 varieties – ancient and modern alike. www.lesjardinsderoquelin.com
©JDamase_CRTCentre
In the gardens, we can find flowers but also fruits such as at the château de Talcy. The creation of a consrvatory orchard resurrected its 18th century original status of farmland. Apples and pears are the star fruits! http://talcy.monuments-nationaux.fr At the Château du Moulin, the strawberry is a mascot whick takes kids and adults on a voyage of discovery of its many varieties. In Sologne, visitors will find a typical chateau with stories of famous original and unknown strawberries. The wood Mara (strawberry from Sologne) is of course the queen of the château! www.chateau-moulin-fraise.com
TIP A detailed brochure on the parks and gardens in the Loire Valley in English can be downloaded on the Loire Valley Tourist Board website – www.visaloire.com. For more information on landscaped parks and gardens in the Loire Valley Association des Parcs et Jardins en Region Centre (APJRC) contact@jardins-de-france.com – www.jardins-de-france.com
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 21 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
FOOD AND WINE An amazing diversity of flavours with 5 goat cheeses and 20 wines AOC quality certified that will charm the most demanding gourmets. Sophisticated, authentic, inventive, tasty, there are many words to describe the Loire Valley’s gastronomy. Don’t miss a chance to explore our farm shops and farmer’s markets, or visit some of the festivals taking place around the area. Follow our wine-routes and experience new sensations tasting them, from Chinon to Cheverny and Sancerre, there is an AOC qualitycertified wine for every taste! Attend cookery lessons with a local talented Chef who will teach you the art of matching wine with food. Local delicacies To tickle your taste buds here is a selection of regional produce and specialities.
C. Lazi
- One of the most famous local produces is goat cheese. Five out of eleven AOC cheeses in France are found in the region: Crottin de Chavignol, Selles-sur-Cher, Valencay, Sainte Maure de Touraine and Pouligny-Saint-Pierre. Don’t miss a visit to a goat cheese farm. - From the River Loire to the Brenne and Sologne ponds, the region offers a large number of fishes such as carp, perch, pike, eel and zander served with delicious sauce of butter, shallots, garlic and white wine called “beurre blanc” or cooked in red wine. - Cooked pork meats such as “rillons de Tours” and “rillettes” or “pâté de Chartres” cooked with young partridge or duck, foie gras, truffles and spices. The chitterlings sausage from Jargeau or “andouille de Jargeau” is made with pork and tripe and has been produced for 800 years.
- Among sweets, the “Mentchikoff” is a delicious chocolate core with a mixture of praline-flavoured ice cream-hazel nut, chocolate and butter and recover of a fine envelope of “Swiss meringue”. The “Cotignac d’Orléans” with its quince perfume is presented in small spruce box. During the Louis XI reign, it was offered to all the honoured guests. The cushion-shaped Forestines made in Bourges are filled with praline. - From cider to beer, from Gâtinais honey to Orléans saffron and vinegar, there are plenty of good products to taste.
Food news Olivier Arlot opened his own restaurant in Tours called ‘Olivier Arlot’. This young chef from Tours is ranked among the ‘Six stars of the future’ in the 2010 Gault & Millau guide. www.restaurantolivierarlot.com The IGP (quality label) acquired by Rillettes de Tours The specific quality of the Rillettes de Tours was officially recognized in 2009. This culinary local speciality made by cooking pork in a pot richly deserves the honnor of the IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée). This attribution recognizes both the quality and the local origin (Touraine) of the product.
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 22 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
C. Lazi
- Fruits and vegetables such as apples and pears, asparagus and green lentils. The home-made pears - “Poires tapées à l’ancienne” are the result of long and meticulous drying served with salted dishes, pastries or ice cream. The “Tarte Tatin” is a succulent upside-down apple tart.
The Loire Valley produces an excellent range of wines, red, rosé and white, as well as sparkling and sweet wines. Connected by a majestic river, the vineyards stretch from Sancerre to the Touraine area. No fewer than 24 AOC (high label quality) celebrate these flavours - fruity or full-bodied - but always brimming over with character. Best 5 grape varieties main ambassadors of Loire Valley include Sauvignon blanc, Chenin, Cabernet franc, Gamay and Pinot Noir. The best way to discover the Loire Valley’s vineyards is to follow one of the two special wine routes. Each of them allows you to visit castles, abbeys, cave dwellings and gardens along the Loire.
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Along the Loire Valley vineyards
“The heart of France vineyard tourist route”
From the Indre to Loiret areas, from Cher to Nièvre in Burgundy, explore the 200 km punctuated with nature treasures, cultural sites, enchanting villages and towns and vineyards such as: - Sancerre. It covers 2770 ha. Amazing panoramas from the medieval town perched atop its ancient flint hill. - Menetou-Salon. Located near Bourges, it covers 465 ha of hills. - Quincy, one of the oldest vineyards of the Loire Valley covering nearly 180 ha. - Reuilly vineyard covers 186 ha.
“The Touraine Loire Valley vineyard tourist route”
Around 800 km takes you meandering around some of the most interesting stretches of Touraine’s wine-making areas, properties, troglodyte villages and châteaux such as Villandry and Azay-le-Rideau. The route passes through Vouvray and Montlouis-sur-Loire, then south of Tours along the Indre valley ending with a tour round Bourgueil and Chinon. Among the AOC, the Touraine vineyards covers more than 8000 ha. Vouvray and Chinon both cover 2000 ha.
Wine museums A new wine house in Tours In May 2010, a Loire valley wines house (“Maison des vins de Loire”) will open in the centre of Tours, in the heart of historical quarters ; Created and run by a group of winegrowers, it will offer a living window of the local vineyard, one of the oldest of France. All the AOC (wines of certified origin) will be explained through documentation and wine tasting sessions. 23 bis rue de grand marché - 37000 Tours - mdesvins-tours@vinsdeloire.fr
The Sancerre house is an exceptional wine area. This house, rebuilt by the winegrowers of the appellation, is an invitation to a pleasant and interesting trip to discover all the secrets of a wine you cannot find anywhere else: the Sancerre AOC wines. Open from end of March to mid-November - www.maison-dessancerre.com Special event! The Maison des Sancerre organises themed evenings on Sancerre wines and local produce – 22nd June and 31st August 2010. This will be the opportunity to meet up with local Chefs and to participate in tasting workshops and learn more about how to match wine with food.
The Maison des Vins of the AOC Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny The newly opened in 2009 Maison des Vins of Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny is located near the entrance of the Château de Cheverny. In a nice contemporary setting, visitors can choose among a hundred types of wines the ones they want to taste. This automated tasting system based on an electronic component placed under each glass is unique in France. When you have chosen, simply place the glass of wine and 3 cl are automatically poured in your glass. Sample the “wine of the day” or the “discovery
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 23 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
C.Mouton
Maison des Sancerre
wine” and do not hesitate to ask for a piece of advice that the professionals will be only too happy to provide you with. www.maisondesvinsdecheverny.fr
For more information and brochures about the wines and the wine routes of the Loire Valley: BUREAU INTERPROFESSIONNEL DES VINS DU CENTRE - BIVC
9 route de Chavignol 18300 SANCERRE +33 2 48 78 51 07 - contact@vins-centre-loire.com - www.vins-centre-loire.com
INTERLOIRE
12 rue Etienne Pallu - BP 61921 - 37019 – TOURS CEDEX 1 +33 2 47 60 55 00 – comite@interloire.com - www.vinsvaldeloire.com
Food festivals 2010 2nd May Crottin de Chavignol’ goat’s cheese festival, Sancerre - www.crottindechavignol.com Local traditional market in Chambord – from Easter to September (several dates to be confirmed). From `charcuterie’, honey, wines to home-made jams, enjoy the lively atmosphere of a typical market and try authentic products made in the nearby farms. www.marche-terroir-chambord.fr 29th - 30th may – Vitiloire (wine festival) Enjoy meeting hundreds of winegrowers and tasting the great wines from the Loire Valley, which reflect the diversity of the vineyards. Plenty of events, demonstrations, live music and an introduction to wine tasting in store and, of course, oodles of gorgeous local produce! www.vinsvaldeloire.com 13th June - Chitterlings Sausage fair - Jargeau - crafts and gastronomy fair with musical events. 21st August - The Old-fashioned market - Chinon - local produces, annual village parade and night ball - www.chinon.com 10th October - The Forgotten Vegetables Fair - Tranzault - this fair is organized by the "Club Jardins d'Antan" whose mission is to make pumpkins and rare vegetables more wellknown, to promote their culture and sale - jardin.dantan.free.fr 12th September - Pumpkins and Vine Festival, Château du Rivau - Léméré - pumpkin juggling, vegetable-garden festivities, arts&crafts, gourmet market… www.chateaudurivau.com 30th and 31st October - Gourmet days in Sologne – Romoranthin-Lanthenay - food&wine fairwww.romorantin.fr/jgs 30th October to 1st November - Chesnut and Walking festival - Eguzon – www.eguzonlaccreuse.com 20th to 21st November - Touraine Primeur - www.touraineprimeur.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 24 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
NATURE An untamed natural environment- an exceptional haven for discovering unusual birds, rare orchids and many types of wildlife The Loire Valley boasts a remarkable natural heritage. Through its three Regional Nature Parks (Brenne, Loire-Anjou-Touraine and Perche), discover the amazing flora and fauna. Whether you are a nature specialist or simply curious to make new discoveries, you will find great activities such as horse-riding, canoeing, biking and bird watching. Enjoy the exceptional beauty of the banks of the River Loire listed as a World Heritage site and be ready for unexpected encounters!
Helio – Van Ingen
The perfect place for bird watching experiences! The Regional Nature Park of La Brenne is well known amongst birdwatchers. Indeed it has been listed as a site of international importance for aquatic birds by the International Union for the Council of Nature. Those who visit La Brenne in Spring will have the opportunity to see migratory birds such as Black Kites, Night Herons, Black-necked Grebes, Black-winged Stilts and Whiskered Terns that stop and nest here. On your own or with one of the various guided tours on offer, you will be able to see them from the various observatories such as Cistude lake hide. www.parcnaturel-brenne.fr On the River Loire, sandy islands are the terns’ territory. Have your binoculars at hand as in Beaugency, Montlouis-sur-Loire and Sully-sur-Loire you will get a chance to observe Little Terns or Little Ringed Plovers. The Orleans forest is the spot for those who enjoy watching eagles as this is home to a number of Booted Eagles and a few Ospreys!
Plants, flowers and other types of wildlife!
The Sologne is a wooded land that lies within a large meander of the River Loire between Gien and Blois, on the edges of the Orleanais, Berry and Touraine. The heaths are a major feature of the Sologne where Green Lizards and Asp Vipers live. If you feel more in the mood for a stroll in the forest, the Red and Roe Deers are waiting for you! Around rivers, meet with Beautiful Demoiselle and Golden-ringed dragonflies.
Where to stay and what to do? Bois Landry Treetop houses nestled in the trees at the gateway to the Perche Regional Nature Park - 1h30 from Paris. Feeling nostalgic about your childhood? Then a log cabin in a tree is THE accommodation for you! From doubles to family size, different types of cabin are available. Perched in the trees between six and thirteen metres above the ground, they can only be accessed using a harness via ladder and/or footbridge! Listen to the gentle creaking of
Bois Landry
C. Lazi
The Loire Anjou Touraine Regional Nature Park organizes tours and activities during which you can learn more about the various species that you find on the banks of the Loire - insects, amphibians, butterflies, dragonflies, beavers and many plants and flowers. Opened in 2008, the Maison du Parc in Montsoreau invites you to discover local nature in an interactive and fun way through temporary exhibitions information desk. Hiking, horse-riding or cycling tours are organised throughout the year departing from the Maison du Parc. www.parc-loire-anjou-touraine.fr Mushroom seekers should pay a visit to the Perche Regional Nature Park where forests are also home to varieties of plant such as Bluebells, Spiked Star and ferns as well as animal species like Pine-Martins and Wild boars. www.parc-naturel-perche.fr
Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 25 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
the trees and enjoy watching the animals in their natural habitat. The ideal way to live in harmony with Nature. Breakfast is served in the morning at the end of a rope and can also be enjoyed on the terrace of the cabin. http://www.lacabaneenlair.com/reservation-en-ligne-3585-01_09.html & www.boislandry.com
And there is also Huttopia Rillé… in Touraine, in the heart of a unique natural site - "Gâtine Tourangelle" – a land of mysterious forests, moors and ponds from ancient legends. From orienteering courses to nature workshops, cycle tours, horse-riding and fishing, marvel at the wild Loire landscape and its wildlife. A night under the stars… Carre d’Etoiles is a brand new accommodation concept that invites you to experience the mystery of the stars. In Touraine, in a three-hectare estate, stay in one of these eco-friendly cube-shaped structures featuring the latest design equipment with a transparent dome. In every Carre d’Etoile, you will find a telescope to observe the stars. www.lagrangee.com On L’Amarante boat Spend a unique moment on L’Amarante, a traditional Loire River boat. Departing from Candes St Martin, one of France’s most beautiful villages, enjoy a boat tour that gives you the opportunity to get to know the Loire River’s unique natural environment. www.bateauamarante.com Sailing on the Loire with Jean Ley Jean Ley, passionnate about the Loire takes you on his traditional boat (called a « toue », a flat bottomed boat) for a guided tour on the royal river from Chaumont-sur-Loire or Amboise. When we get on board, a true human adventure starts. In order to maximise the authenticity and the opportunity for communication, there are never more than 12 people on board. We are welcomed by experienced sailors who know the river like the back of their hand and like to share real moments: the flight of a bird, a beaver disturbed from its daily life… The silence is total, the hustle and bustle of everyday life can be forgotten. Guided tours on the Loire are available all seasons and at any time: from dawn to dusk and even bivouac overnight on an island! www.milliere-raboton.net Horse riding in the Indre Horse riding is the ideal way to discover all the many parts of Berry (south of the Loire Valley region). With your horse, discover the fauna and flora of the Regional Nature Park of La Brenne. Stop for a picnic made with regional products. Spring and autumn are particularly recommended periods for this short-break. http://tourisme.cyberindre.org/jahia/Jahia/portail/tourisme/pid/5782 Canoe kayaking Paddle down the rivers and across the lakes of the Loire Valley, with your friends or family. www.loirevelonature.com / www.loirenatureredecouverte.com/canoe.html / www.l-o-i-r-e.com Loire Valley Tourist Board – www.visaloire.com 26 PR contact: Frédérique COLIN – Press manager – f.colin@visaloire.com – Tél. 0033 2 38 79 95 19
C. Mouton
C.Lazi
New! Huttopia Senonches: an ecostyle campsite in the heart of Nature South-West of Paris, in the heart of the Perche Regional Nature Park, around the Badouleau lake, the newly opened summer 2009 Huttopia Senonches welcome campers looking for authenticity and greenery. The infrastructures are environmentally friendly and of high quality. Huttopia uses simple natural materials and the installations are mounted on stilts in order to respect the natural sloping ground, the fauna and the flora whenever possible. The impact on the environment is therefore minimal. There are 126 spacious sites, scattered over10 ha of forest for communing with Mother nature. There are several possibilities: to plant one’s tent in the heart of the forest in one of the 300 m² of sites or rent a cabin or a Huttopia ridge tent. Activities linked to nature are offered to holidaymakers. www.huttopia.com