Loire Valley Honeymoons

When it comes to immersing yourself in romance—there’s nothing quite like France to set the bar high. For couples who prefer the luxurious experience and are willing to splurge a bit on their honeymoon, consider going bolder than the intrigue of Paris and plan a Loire Valley honeymoon. It covers an impressive 280 kilometers, sprawling across and beyond the Loire River in the central region of the country. You can begin your trip by flying into Paris for an evening, and then taking a short train to explore this remarkable destination. For couples dazzled by those who marched before them, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by this playing ground of former kings and queens, as you jaunt through palaces, towers and aristocratic estates. When you’re not pretending you’re royalty, you’ll be happily tipsy off of the impressive plethora of wines in this grape-growing area—from reds and whites to rose and sparkling. City hop through Orleans, Blois, Tours and Angers, as you fall even more in love with one another, and of course, France.

Here, a guide to planning the perfect Loire Valley honeymoon.  

When to go

If you want more time to sneak in a kiss or take your time, visit when daily showers are expected, but temperatures are mild in April or May. Or for summer-like weather, consider June through September—but expect more crowds to elbow through. During October and November, you might experience some frosts, but the area will still be as magical as ever.

Top sites and attractions

Depending on what experience piques your interest, there are a myriad of experiences and sites to visit when you tour this impeccable valley. To name a few we recommend for newlyweds, glance here:

• Chateau of Chenonceau: Decadent and beautiful, this mansion features countless masterpieces and wonders that’ll have your jaw on the floor. In addition to the Indre River that flows through the lower arches, you’ll find yourself astonished by a two-story gallery, tapestries and a garden blooming with rose trees.
• Bayeux Tapestry in Angers: Located in Angers, this infamous tastery weaves a story through its pattern. As you tour through this castle, you’ll be entranced by the conquest of England by William the Conqueror, told through six chapters.
• Ainy-le-Vieil: As another lesson in ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’—the outside of this chateaux doesn’t accurate give a preview to the wonders inside. The fortress-like design is protecting the elaborate design inside, including fireplaces and several century-old keepsakes. Make time to explore the expansive gardens, with fruit trees, a poet’s garden and more gifts from nature.
• Blois Chateau: As the epicenter and focal point of the city of Blois, no visit here is complete without a tour through this 16th-century work of art. Over the years, six French kings called this home, and today is is adorned with various facades, red brick and white stone, and several styles of architecture. Steal a kiss on the cobblestone courtyard, as you try to imagine every couple who came before you.
• Notre-Dame d’Orsan: Built in 1107, you’ll be transfixed by the sheer history of this must-see site. You can get lost in the gardens, gawk at the tapestries and even read through manuscripts from the Middle Ages. Just don’t be too tempted to pick a forbidden fruit from the massive orchard in the back.
• The Loire a Velo Cycle Route: Covering 500 miles, you probably don’t want to bike the whole path along the Atlantic Coast that takes you through Saumur, Tours, Angers, Nantes and more—but a few miles is just fine. You can rent bikes, stay at local hotels, sip on wine and explore this region in a whole different, athletic way.
• Cathédrale St-Etienne: Dating back to the 12th century, this is an often treasured part of any trip to Bourges. Not only is it one of the greatest gothic cathedrals of France but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The stained glass, the impressive build and other delicate touches all make it a beauty.
• Chateau of Cheverny: Built in the 17th century for the governor of Blois, this chateau is still home to many of its original decorations and furnishings, allowing you to step back into time. You’ll notice carved paneling, tranquil gardens, grand halls and Instagram-worthy staircases to pose in front of.
• Azay-le-Rideau: If a fairytale is what you seek—we’ve found it. Because it is surrounded by a moat, this 16th century chateau will have you feeling like the princess you are, complete with touches of Italian architecture, gothic designs and a lush garden.
• Orleans: For a few days, allow yourself to get lost in this UNESCO World Heritage City. Here, you can learn more about the infamous Joan of Arc, tour through the city’s cathedral and sip your way through countless wine tastings and more.

Article by Lindsay Tigar