On the way to the unmissable sites of the Loire Valley

Orléans, a city on a human scale, has a remarkable heritage, like its Gothic cathedral, whose work began in the 13th century. Then head for the Groslot mansion, which houses many treasures: walls of painted canvases, coffered ceilings and Aubusson tapestries. Many places pay tribute to Joan of Arc. To be seen: the statue on the Place du Martroi and the Maison Jeanne d'Arc, historical museum. Don't forget the peaceful banks of the Loire for a bike ride.

The next day, we head for Briare for a day on the river. We start by admiring its main monuments and cultural places: the Saint-Etienne church, the old lock house, the Mosaic and Enamels museum and the Deux Marines and Pont-Canal museum. In the afternoon, you will discover the Briare canal-bridge, built between 1890 and 1896. The oldest canal in France, this work of art has something to marvel at with its sidewalks with bright street lamps and the views offered on the Loire.

Departure for Blois. You will appreciate its Renaissance mansions, stroll in the old town of Blois and then take the Denis-Papin staircase, whose top offers a breathtaking view. The city is home to one of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley, whose François I wing dating from the 16th century, with a spiral staircase, shines. Blois also has surprising places like the Museum of Magic and the Foundation of Doubt, which houses works by Yoko Ono. 16 km away is the magnificent castle of Chambord. This 16th century masterpiece is a landmark in terms of its grandeur and its facade with domes and fireplaces on the roof. Inside, you will discover the royal apartments, the astonishing double helix staircase and, from the heights, French gardens and a wooded area that never seems to end.

The next day, a trip to Cheverny includes a visit to its château, one of the most beautifully furnished in the Loire Valley. Stroll through its remarkable grounds, before going inside to enjoy the décor and the permanent Tintin exhibition. Yes, this jewel inspired the cartoonist Hergé. You can also take advantage of a visit to Cheverny to discover the AOC wines, take a nature walk by bike or accompanied by a donkey. Children will love it!

Arrival at Amboise, whose château proudly overlooks the Loire. The residence of kings of France, it houses some magnificent royal dwellings, with a collection of Gothic furniture. Once you've reached the Tour Cavalière des Minimes, the view of the World Heritage landscapes is breathtaking. A stroll through the town reveals an architecture of tuffeau stone and half-timbered houses. Several restaurants offer local gastronomy. Nearby, Le Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last home, offers a glimpse of his workshop and his unmissable models.

The next day, a stroll to Tours, where we head to the old town for a drink on Place Plum' and its amazing ^15th-century timber-framed buildings. Nearby, the Place de Châteauneuf offers a superb view of the monuments forming the Martinopole. In the afternoon, head for the Château de Chenonceau. Overlooking the Cher River, it reveals richly furnished rooms. For an unusual activity, don't hesitate to climb aboard a canoe and row around the building.

Castles day. Villandry is the last of the great castles built during the Renaissance in the Loire Valley. The place is especially famous for its splendid French gardens, spread over four terraces. We then head for Azay-le-Rideau, to visit its building built on an island in the middle of the Indre River. The furnishing of the first floor, the English park, everything is remarkable. The narrow streets of the city and the artisanal stores add to the charm.

A first stop in the Maine-et-Loire region takes place in one of Europe's most important monastic cities: the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud. Founded in 1101, the abbey's tumultuous history is recounted along the way, and visitors can dine, sleep or attend a cultural event. In the afternoon, arriving in Saumur by road along the Loire River begins with a contemplation of the château in the distance. Then a stroll through the charming streets of the town center is in order. In the Saumur region, you can visit wine cellars and troglodytic caves. Sparkling whites, reds and whites are sure to please.

The day after, families will enjoy spending time at the Biopark of Doué-la-Fontaine. Its troglodytic setting makes it a unique place in Europe. Lions, cheetahs, rhinoceroses, meerkats, giraffes, etc. can be seen there. And since troglos are omnipresent in Anjou, you should take the opportunity to discover the troglodytic village of Rochemenier, composed of old farms, a common room and a chapel. The scenography and the sounds make you travel in the heart of the troglodytic farms of the past.