ESCAPES IN THE LOIRE

Saumur-champigny, bonnezeaux, vouvray, saint-nicolas-de-bourgueil: are these names familiar to you? You taste them in a glass, so why not take a tour of these famous Loire Valley vineyards? That's what the Interprofession des Vins du Val-de-Loire, well known to wine professionals for its logistical and technical support, proposes. Its mission is also to help the general public discover this milieu, and it has been doing so perfectly for over 15 years with "Vignes-Vins-Randos". And don't forget that the valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site! The 3-hour hikes are punctuated by cultural and gourmet breaks during which a winegrower shares his passion and know-how with you, over a glass of wine and local produce. With visits to vineyards and cellars, anecdotes and landscape analysis, this is a unique opportunity to (re)discover the land and terroir of the Loire Valley, with a fresh eye. Discoveries of flora and fauna, local heritage and flavors are skilfully blended to create an eco-friendly, intelligent wine tourism experience that youngsters can also enjoy on 2-hour family outings (alcohol-free tastings!). Equipped with a hiker's kit, everyone can better understand the sensory and geographical itinerary, not with a glass in their hand, but around their neck! Last but not least, some tours are open to bicycles.