Top Road Trips in the Loire Valley
The scenery in the Loire Valley changes around every curve. Honey-colored villages give way to lavish castles. Vine-draped fields back onto the lush banks of the Loire, France’s longest river. Moreover, while trains serve each of the region’s main destinations, the best way to explore is by car. This method provides better access to the area’s blissful natural surroundings.
Here are the five best road trips in the Loire Valley.
1. The Vineyard Road
Best Road Trip for Wine and Scenic Landscapes
Chinon-Bouchemaine; approx. 145km (90 miles); 2-3 days
Combining emblematic wines with picturesque landscapes, this road trip passes white tufa (limestone) villages overlooking the Loire and vineyards rolling out as far as the eye can see. Start in Chinon, a medieval city with half-timbered houses and a dominating royal fortress, before heading for Saumur. The red grape vines that fill the surrounding landscape are used to produce Chinon wine.
Stop en route at the Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud, once Europe’s biggest monastic city, before staying overnight in Saumur and enjoying some wine tasting. The troglodyte cellars of Bouvet-Ladubay and Ackerman both serve excellent Crémant (a sparkling white wine).
The next morning, cross the Pont du Cadre Noir and take the D952 along the banks of the Loire. This road provides a panorama no one gets tired of. Beige sandbanks contrast with the grey-blue water, and in good weather, the river reflects the sky and the trail of clouds, with only a green line of trees to separate them. After 45 km, you’ll arrive in Les Ponts-de-Cé, a southern suburb of Angers. From here, connect with the sun-warmed hillsides of the Aubance valley.
On day three, make your way to the hills between Chalonnes and Bouchemaine. Appreciate the river’s proximity to sail on a toue (a traditional wooden boat) in La Possonnière. Then head to Savennières, renowned for its namesake white wine. Finish in Bouchemaine, an old fishermen’s village, and enjoy a quiet evening on the banks of the river.
2. A Journey Through French Literature
Best Road Trip for Culture
Tours-Montsoreau; 78 km (49 miles); 2 days
For centuries, the Loire Valley has provided inspiration for writers. Starting at La Riche, near Tours, this road trip follows in the footsteps of numerous French authors and poets. Begin at Prieuré Saint Cosme, the final home of Renaissance poet Pierre de Ronsard. From here, drive through the valley’s vast flat plains until they suddenly give way to woodland near Saché to visit Château de Saché.
Continue onto Chinon, where another Renaissance writer, François Rabelais, grew up. Next, head to Montsoreau, where its castle was used as the setting for The Lady of Montsoreau by Alexandre Dumas. From the terrace, enjoy great views of the rushing Loire River below.
3. Along the Loire
Best Road Trip for Nature
Tours-Saint Florent le Vieil; 170km (105 miles); 3 days
This road trip offers a profound connection with nature. It starts in Tours and then takes the D16 to Ussé, where the Loire passes before your very eyes. Stop in Ussé, whose otherworldly castle was the inspiration for Charles Perrault’s Sleeping Beauty, before heading to Candes-Saint-Martin.
The next morning, follow the curves of the Loire along the D952 all the way to Bouchemaine. Afterward, climb the hills between Rochefort-sur-Loire and Chalonnes-sur-Loire on the D751. This route, known as La Corniche Angevine, offers panoramic vistas for as far as you can see. Stay over in Chalonnes-sur-Loire.
On day three, take a short detour to drive the 14-kilometer-long island of Chalonnes. You’re heading to your last stop, Saint-Florent-le-Vieil, an oasis of narrow streets with vine-covered houses.
4. The Castles of the Loire Valley
Best Road Trip for History and Architecture
Blois-Chinon; 108km (68 miles); 4 days
This drive takes you through history from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance period, showcasing the most exemplary examples of castles. First up, Château Royal de Blois, an imposing castle impossible to miss. Don’t miss the sound and light performance that lights each facade at night from April to September.
On day two, head to Chambord, built by François I. Next, visit Chaumont-sur-Loire, where you can take a midday break along the Loire. Explore Amboise, where you can spend the night, discovering its impressive castle and the best viewpoint on the river.
5. The Ultimate Loire Valley Road Trip
Best Blockbuster Road Trip
Sully-sur-Loire–Nantes; approx. 350km (217 miles); 10–15 days
This extensive road trip takes around two weeks to complete and covers all the big sights. Starting at the romantic castle in Sully-sur-Loire and ending down the river in Nantes, it offers opportunities to taste local specialties.
The journey also allows for stops at castles like Chenonceau or Azay-le-Rideau. The beautiful countryside is punctuated by charming villages, making for delightful explorations along the way.
