Somewhere in between bustling Paris and sun-drenched southern France lies the Loire Valley. This region of France is particularly known for its hundreds of castles. But its Renaissance architecture isn’t all this French region boasts. The Loire Valley is sprinkled with vineyards, which spread across 220 square miles, per Vins du Val de Loire. From Sauvignon Blanc to Muscadet, from Cabernet Franc to Vouvray, we’re exploring the best of the Loire Valley wine region.
Your Guide to the Loire Valley Wine Region
How to Get to the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley spreads across a 170-mile stretch. This region is accessible by plane at the Tours Val de Loire Airport. But France’s robust train system is also a fantastic way to explore the Loire Valley. We recommend flying into Paris and then taking a train to one of the larger towns in the Loire Valley such as Tours, Orléans or Angers. If you’re looking to explore wine country, it’s best to have a vehicle in order to best discover the region and its terroir. French Side Travel is able to coordinate drivers and luxury transportation for you during your trip to the Loire Valley wine region. That means you can focus more on wine and less on logistics.
Overview of the Loire Valley Wine Region
With around 50 appellations, the Loire Valley is one of France’s largest wine regions. Nearly half of the Loire Valley’s wine production is white wine; about one quarter of its production is rosé wine, according to Vins du Val de Loire. The Loire Valley also produces red wines and sparkling wines.
Within the Loire Valley wine region, there are several sub-regions: the Central Vineyards, Touraine, Anjou-Saumur, and the Pays Nantais, according to MasterClass.
Loire Valley Grape Varieties and Wines
The main grape varieties grown in the Loire Valley wine region include: Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Melon de Bourgogne, per Wine Folly.
When traveling to the Loire Valley wine region, be sure to sip on a glass of Vouvray. This white wine is made with Chenin Blanc grapes and can be found in different styles from sparkling to dry, according to Wine Folly.
If you have a hankering for even more white wine, look no further than a glass of Muscadet, which is made of Melon de Bourgogne grapes, per Divine Loire. This wine region produces more than 10 million bottles of this dry white wine each year, according to Vins du Val de Loire.
If you fancy reds, no need to fret. The Loire Valley will swoon with its Côt grapes in the Touraine sub-region.
Thirsty for more of the Loire Valley? French Side Travel offers many wine activities in this wine region. Whether you’re craving a glass of red Chinon or a flute of Vouvray, we have the perfect tour for you. Here are some of the best wine activities in the Loire Valley.
Full-Day Wine Tour of the Loire Valley
Spend the entire day immersing yourself in the enchanting Loire Valley wine region. Located near the Château de Chenonceau, this domain ferments its wines in troglodyte cellars, or underground caves. Later you’ll wander another winery not far from the Château Royal d’Amboise. Here you’ll stroll its vineyards and troglodytic cellars. Your wine-themed day will also include a deep dive into the Vouvray appellation known for its glossy hue. Speak with the winemakers themselves as you uncover their craft.
Private Domain Tour and Meal in a Troglodyte Cave
Discover the charming town of Chinon and delve into the local culture in this Loire Valley village. You’ll begin your visit with a trip to a domain as you wander the estate and its wine cellar. Your day will include a wine tasting of two whites, one rosé and three red wines. Your wine tasting will be followed by a gourmet meal either in a troglodyte cave or, if the weather is on your side, along the Vienne river.
Guided Tour of Vouvray, Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil and Chinon Appellations
With more than 50 appellations to explore in the Loire Valley, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Let us help by introducing you to three of our favorites: Vouvray, Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil and Chinon. Your personal guide will introduce you to three different wineries in the Loire where you’ll discover the winemaking journey. Then wander the underground cellars and sip on a variety of wines produced in the region.
Where to Stay in the Loire Valley
Relais de Chambord
A mere four minutes from the Château de Chambord, this hotel is at the heels of royalty. With 16th century roots, this four-star hotel offers 55 unique rooms, including a boat suite. After a day of castle exploration, you can dine at one of the hotel’s restaurants. We’re certain that you’ll be tempted by its herb-crusted venison at Le Grand Saint-Michel or a café gourmand at Les Armes du Château.
Les Sources de Cheverny
Settle in with a stay at this cozy chic five-star hotel. Nestled between Chambord and Chenonceau châteaux, les Sources de Cheverny will enchant you with its 49 rooms and suites. Be tempted by its wooded suite overlooking the lake and featuring a Nordic bath. After a full day of winery tours, unwind at the hotel’s thermal bath or hammam all with the perfect backdrop of the forest.
Enchanted by the Loire Valley wine region? French Side Travel is ready to help you plan a magical trip to experience the best of the French wine. You might enjoy: The Gorgeous Loire Valley by Bike or Luxury Trip to Paris, Normandy, and Loire Valley. Need some help planning your trip?