Les Hautes Roches

An 900km waymarked cycle route through the Loire’s beautiful countryside, stopping off at fantastical chateaux, vineyards, and picturesque villages.

Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence reveals fascinating insights into the enigmatic painter, engineer and inventor.

Hot air balloon flights offer a serene, crowd-free way to appreciate the Loire’s spectacular landscapes and chateaux, as you drift silently above treetops and turrets.

One of the world’s most beautiful gardens, including a truly remarkable vegetable garden, in the grounds of a UNESCO-listed chateau.

This annual wine fair in Tours, held at the start of June, celebrates local wines with wine workshops, music, fireworks and countless opportunities to taste and buy direct from producers.

This oriental treasure is the largest Japanese garden in Europe features rolling lawns, sculpted trees, shrines, and more than 300 species of plants.

This historically important Gothic cathedral is famed for its rare medieval stained-glass windows and floor labyrinth.

Paddling along the Loire is a dreamy was to see its waterfront chateaux, plus the region’s rich flora and fauna. Loire Kayak offer trips ranging from 1 hour to up to 8 days (with camping).

Extraordinary historic chateaux, authentic village life, and superb wine blend in this beautiful UNESCO-listed valley.

Our ancestors did it, and something evolutionary in us begs us to try – here’s our round-up of the best caves you can sleep in, without sacrificing your creature comforts (too much).

Here’s our round-up of 60 unique and unusual places to stay – from castles to palaces, treehouses to caves and even UFOs – that justify a place on any travel bucket list in their own right.