Ride through the gardens of Villandry, to admire the castle of Azay-le-Rideau, then be
sure not to miss the beautiful medieval architecture of the Abbey of Fontevraud. Even
more impressive, the royal fortress of Chinon, perched on its rocky spur, dominates the
“City of Art and History”. Chinon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are susceptible
to beautiful villages, stroll to Montsoreau, which is listed among the “More beautiful
Villages of France”. In the heart of the Regional Natural Reserve called Loire-Anjou-
Touraine, discover the villages named after the wines produced within: Touraine Azay-
le-Rideau, Chinon, Saumur, Saumur-Champigny all of which admirably complement the
Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine goat cheese named for the town where it is produced. Don’t
forget Saumur, the city of the horse, and home of the Cadre Noir, the French National
School of Horsemanship.
Remarkable points:
- Discover the light wines of the Loire: Saumur-Champigny, Saumur, Touraine, Chinon.
- Visit the castles and abbeys: Montpoupon, Cormery, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau,
Fontevraud. - Quality accommodations.
- Visit the Cadre Noir of Saumur during a public presentation.