For many, Paris is a bucket-list destination. And for good reason — the city is vibrant, has countless activities to appeal to any interest, and is full of amazing restaurants, cafés, pastry shops, etc.
What it will also be full of this summer is tourists. It’s always jammed in the warm months, but this year will be even more frenetic. The Summer Olympics is expected to draw 15 million visitors. Popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Musée d'Orsay will be open during this time—but saying there will be crowds is an understatement. And costs will climb as well.
If all of that blunts your enthusiasm — but you already booked your flights — there are countless amazing vacation destinations within a reasonable drive or rail distance to Paris, including the Loire Valley.
What is the Loire Valley?
The Loire Valley is a region in the central part of France, stretching for about 280 kilometers (175 miles) along the Loire River. It is often referred to as the "Garden of France" due to its abundance of vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields alongside the riverbanks. This area is renowned for its historic villages, beautiful landscapes, and magnificent castles, or châteaux, which reflect the wealth and prominence of the region throughout history, especially during the Renaissance period.
It’s an easy three-hour drive southwest of Paris and is laden with magnificent châteaux, lush vineyards, expansive sunflower fields, and charming villages and cities. There are also amazing chateaux stays to explore including Château des Arpentis, one of our favorites.
Here are some other activities not to miss:
Châteaux Exploration: Visit some of the famous châteaux like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau. Many have activities or areas designed specifically for children to learn and explore.
Biking Along the Loire: Rent bikes (including child sizes) and take a leisurely ride along the Loire River. The paths are mostly flat, making it an easy ride for little legs.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: Consider a family-friendly hot air balloon ride for an unforgettable aerial view of the Loire Valley. Early mornings offer the best conditions and breathtaking views.
Visit Leonardo Da Vinci's Home: At Château du Clos Lucé, explore the mind of Leonardo da Vinci where he spent his last years. They have engaging exhibits and often host workshops for kids.
Treetop Adventure Courses: Several parks in the area offer treetop courses with zip lines and obstacle courses, suitable for a wide range of ages.
Picnics by the River: Grab some local cheese, bread, and fruit from a market and enjoy a relaxed picnic by the river. Many towns along the river have beautiful picnic spots. Amboise has a huge Sunday Farmer’s Market, which is the perfect place to grab some bites before heading out.
Canoeing on the Loire: For families with older kids, renting canoes can be a fun way to see the Loire from a different perspective.
To learn more about building a Loire Valley itinerary, drop us a line at andiamokiddo@gmail.com!
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