Food and Drink

Regional specialities include charcuteries, not least the local pates and terrines of pheasant and other game. Freshwater fish such as trout and eel are frequently on the menu at many restaurants.
Wine lovers will enjoy the Loire Valley for the famous white Sancerre wines and light Anjou rose wines.

Shopping
There is a wide selection of shopping throughout the towns in the Loire Valley, from bustling markets selling fresh produce to galleries and boutiques, antique shops and confectioners.
Quartier des Antiquaires in Versailles is a series of linked passages and courtyards occupied by numerous antiques dealers, predominantly selling period furniture and decorative objects. Jewellery and silverware, paintings and antiquarian books are also in abundance. More upmarket wares can be found in Le Bailliage and junkier trinkets in Le Carra.
For souvenirs and gifts visit the Versailles palaces as they have a wide selection of goodies in the museum shops.
Where to Stay

Saumur - The birthplace of fashion designer Coco Chanel, this is one of the most elegant towns in France with graceful château overlooking pretty townhouses. It’s also famous for its sparkling wines.
Tours - The centre of the wine trade in the Loire Valley. The narrow streets of the Historic Quarter are lined with quaint houses, shops and bustling bars and restaurants, whilst in the cloisters at St Julien, the old wine cellar now houses a local wine museum for you to visit.

Things to Do

Visit the stunning Chateau Chambord, one of the most impressive palaces. Tours, Blois and Chenonceau are equally unmissable.
Chavignol - close to Sancerre, has several wine producers in the village with tastings and vintage wines for sale. The Fete du Crottin is held in Sancerre every April and is a celebration of the local cheeses.
Le Mans - is the famous venue for the 24-hour automobile race held in June each year. The city itself is a busy place, with Gallo-Roman ramparts, a lovely historic Old Quarter, and a wonderful Gothic/Renaissance cathedral, which is located on a hilltop overlooking the River Sarthe.
Chantilly Races - France’s answer to Royal Ascot. Prix de Diane, is one of the spectacular races that are held here in June. The racecourse is located in a 65-hectare park that is bordered by an ancient forest in front of the famous 18th century Chateau and the Great Stables.
Versailles Garden Tours - The gardens are breathtaking especially the fountains.The hamlet behind the Petite Trianan is worth a visit. Hire a boat on the canal which is good value and great fun.

Insider Tip
Take a scenic boat tour down the Loire River to see spectacular views of the beautiful French countryside.
Chateau Versailles is open Tuesday - Sundays so make sure you don’t visit on a Monday.
Celebration
For a romantic day, take a stroll and a picnic to the fairytale gardens at Chantilly Chateau hidden within the forests, where paths meander around lakes.

Loire Valley & Royal France

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