Loire Valley Castles Tour
- Canter from the iconic Château de Chambord to the majestic Château de Chenonceau
- Savor the best of French traditional cuisine & gastronomy
- Slumber in luxury 17th Century Châteaux Hotels
Optional : Additional night at the Château, Hot air ballon ride, Cheese & Wine Tastings, Canoë-Kayak on the Loire River, SPA Treatments
On your departure day, our driver will collect you from the airport/your hotel in Paris and transport you to the heart of Loire Valley, where your accommodation awaits.
The journey to the Loire Valley typically takes 2h30, depending on your specific location and traffic conditions.
For our set departures, the Castles of the Loire Valley is tailored to accommodate intermediate to experienced riders; comfortable riding at all 3 paces and cantering in open nature.
You will spend between 3 to 6 hours in the saddle each day in a group of 4 riders, with Appaloosas, Irish Cobs and Arab-Barbs.
Non-riders are also welcome to join the journey : While equestrians explore the trails in the morning, we offer tailored alternative experiences including Cheese & Wine tasting, Hot air ballon ride, Canoë-Kayak, and more - ensuring every participant enjoys a memorable and personalized day out.
In addition to our set departures, we also offer private rides to the Loire Valley, allowing you to tailor your experience. You can customize various aspects of your journey, including the number of riding days, time spent in the saddle, accommodations, and visits to châteaux along with other activities.
Our partnerships with luxury estates and châteaux, along with trusted touring partners, grant us exclusive access to first-class accommodations and activities to craft the journey of your dreams. Tell us about it, and we will turn it into a reality : Contact us for a Tailor-Made journey.
When you reach out through our booking or contact form, our team will provide you with a comprehensive brochure of your chosen journey. This booklet includes the full itinerary, details about accommodations, rates, and available departure dates (along with many pictures to give you a glimpse of the ride!).
If the journey aligns with your wishes and you would like to join, we will send you a detailed form to complete. This helps us understand your riding level, background, and experience, ensuring you meet the required skill level for the ride. This step not only prioritizes safety but also guarantees an enjoyable experience for the entire riding group.
Once our team and riding guide confirm your suitability, you can secure your saddle by paying a 50% deposit.
For your convenience, this can be easily completed via our secure payment link or through a traditional bank transfer.
Just an hour away from the busy streets of Paris, lie exquisite treasures waiting to be discovered: The Loire Valley Castles.
From François I, Leonardo da Vinci to Catherine de Médici, the French Royalty chose it for its expansive forests, abundant wildlife, and its proximity to Paris. From beginners to experienced riders, we invite you to discover this unique architectural and artistic heritage like French Royalty used to: On horseback.
The Loire Valley Castles on Horseback is an immersive journey that guides you through the most beautiful Renaissance castles in the world, to experience the Royal « Art de vivre à la française » for a few days.
Ride from the iconic Château de Chambord to the majestic Château de Chenonceau, savor the best of French gastronomy, sleep in luxury châteaux, while discovering the former Royal estate & its secrets :
A unique blend of horse-riding, gastronomy, and culture.
Week-end Getaway Itinerary
☽ P.M – At 2 p.m., your driver and guide will collect you and the other guests from your location in Paris, and drive you to your accommodation for the next 2 nights - Château des Grotteaux or La Borde en Sologne - located in the heart of the Loire Valley, about a 2h15 journey.
Your accommodation awaits you in the 17th Century Château des Grotteaux, located in a verdant setting, on the right bank of the Cosson River. Vicomte Gaël welcomes you with a tour of his sumptuous Château. Upon some rest, we invite you to meet the horses in the gardens before transfering to the charming town of Blois for dinner on a terrace overlooking the Loire River.
☽ Night at Le Château des Grotteaux or La Borde en Sologne
☼ A.M – Start your day with a generous buffet breakfast, featuring only homemade and local products. Then, meet your horses in the garden and begin preparations. Start your ride through the forest massif of Boulogne, towards the stunning 16th cent. Château de Chambord - 3h Ride. Settle in to savor delicious french cuisine while admiring the wonderful view offered by the restaurant’s terrace.
☽ P.M – Upon lunch, your guide will lead you on a 1h30 tour through the most spectacular Château de La Loire : Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece set within a vast 12,000-acre estate. With its extravagant architecture and polished gardens, Chambord is a striking symbol of French royal ambition. Then, we will head to the Domaine du Portail, for a vineyard tour and tasting led by the Maître de chai. Transfer back to the Château des Grotteaux for a restful evening and dinner in Blois.
☽ Night at Le Château des Grotteaux or La Borde en Sologne
☼ A.M – Upon breakfast, meet your horses in the garden and begin preparations.
*Thank you for having your luggage ready for transfer to your next accommodation*
Today’s ride takes you through vineyards, fields, and forests to the elegant 16th-century Château de Beauregard, where a delightful picnic lunch awaits in its gardens, shaded by centuries-old trees - 3h ride.
☽ P.M – Upon lunch, we invite you to discover freely François I’s hunting lodge and its impressive collection of 300 portraits of notable French and European figures. In the afternoon, ride towards your next accommodation: L’Auberge de la Caillère - 2h30 Ride. Upon settling into your rooms, enjoy apéritif on the terrace before savoring dinner at the bistronomic table of l’Auberge.
☽ Dinner & Night at L’Auberge de la Caillère
☼ A.M – *Thank you for having your luggage ready for transfer to Paris in the afternoon*
Upon breakfast, a 15-minute drive will take you to the starting point of the ride. Today’s trail will take us through the picturesque countryside of the Loire Valley, walking through villages, cantering through hay fields and by rivers, towards the majestic Château de Chenonceau - 4h Ride.
☽ P.M – Upon your arrival, savor lunch in the Château’s stunning restaurant “L’orangerie du Château”. In the afternoon, a bilingual historian guide will be guiding you for 1h30 through one of the most sumptuous French Castles - also known as the Queen’s Castle - A 16th Century marvel. By 4:30 p.m, our driver will take you back to your hotel/location in Paris - 2.5 hours drive depending on traffic and your location in Paris.
.avif)
What our riders say
Optional activities
Vineyard visit & Wine tastings
Explore the renowned vineyards of the Loire Valley, France’s third-largest wine region. This exclusive experience takes you on a journey through the heart of this renowned terroir, where you’ll meet passionate local winemakers, discover their time-honored techniques and indulge in tastings of the valley’s emblematic wines, from crisp Muscadets to rich Cabernet Francs.
HoT-Air Balloon ride
As the sun sets, hop on on a hot-air ballon ride above the majestic Châteaux of the Loire Valley. Float peacefully over the region’s iconic landscapes and villages while capturing breathtaking aerial views of this renowned UNESCO World Heritage site. Please note that the feasibility of this activity depends on various weather factors.
Canoë-Kayak on the Loire
Embark on a serene adventure along the waters of the Loire River by canoe or kayak. Glide past picturesque villages, historic château de Chenonceau, and lush vineyards that line the riverbanks, taking in the region’s unparalleled beauty from a unique and fun perspective.
Accommodations
Our carefully-curated accommodations are more than just places to rest; they are living testimonies to the tales of royalty and nobility that once graced these lands.
Nestled on the River banks, surrounded by verdant forest massifs, or offering incomparable views on the Château de Chambord, each accommodation offers a different, equally enchanting charm, inviting you to experience the regal manners of Queens and Kings. Behind their ancient walls, you will find the seamless fusion of tradition and modernity – a delicate dance where antique tapestries meet contemporary comforts.
With tastefully designed rooms, rejuvenating wellness spas, and Michelin-starred restaurants, the Châteaux Hotels subtly blend luxury, historical richness, and artistic heritage for your nights to be as enchanting as your days.
CHÂTEAU LA BORDE EN SOLOGNE
Grand, Luxury & Wellness
CHÂTEAUX DES GROTTEAUX
Intimacy, Elegance & Warmth
AUBERGE DE LA CAILLÈRE
Authentic, Friendly & Contemporary
The Loire Valley
Experience the unparalleled charm of the Loire Valley – a French treasure boasting rolling hills, expansive vineyards, charming villages, and a collection of over 300 Châteaux. Home to Europe’s longest river, the Loire, and witness of French history from the Middle Ages, the Loire Valley is home to the greatest Renaissance châteaux in the world.
The Loire Valley Castles on Horseback invites you to step back in time and be transported to a fairy-tale setting, where majestic castles and lush vineyards complement each other in one of the most magnificent sceneries. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites, the paramount legacy of French Kings and prepare to be captivated by the epitome of royal French elegance along with passionate historian and local guides.
Our tailor-made journeys offer the opportunity to ride to Château de Chenonceau, Beauregard, Cheverny, Amboise, and the iconic Chambord – a testament to France’s grandeur and pinnacle of the Renaissance, which took a century to complete. Experience your dream adventure come to life as we craft a Tailor-Made Journey to the Loire Valley. Share with us your preferences for royal treasures you wish to discover, and we will turn your dream adventure to life.
Frequently asked questions
The Loire Valley Castles Ride welcomes riders of all experience levels - from first-timers to experienced riders.
Please note that while horseback riding in Loire Valley can cater to all skill levels, intermediate and experienced riders have the option to enjoy trots and canters during their ride, should they feel confident or wish to do so.
Our gentle, calm and well-trained horses are carefully matched to each rider based on individual height, weight, and riding background, ensuring a safe and enjoyable equestrian experience for everyone.
Non-riders are also welcomed to join the trip: While equestrians explore the trails, we offer tailored alternative experiences including E-Bike tours, vineyards visits & wine tastings, hot-air balloon rides, wellness treatments, and more – ensuring every participant enjoys a memorable and personalized experience.
If you would like to explore our shorter horseback riding experience in France, we recommend our day trips with horseback riding in Paris such as our horseback riding in Versailles or our weekend rides, such as the Abbey to Castle Getaway all of which are tailored for beginner to experienced riders.
If you find yourself uncertain about your suitability for this ride, we are here to help and assist you. Please feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to guide you.
Yes - Our commitment lies in curating tailor-made experiences that cater to the unique preferences and needs of each of our guests. This includes accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Prior to embarking on a horse riding holiday or day trip, we request guests to complete a comprehensive form. This form allows us to gather essential information, not only about dietary restrictions and allergies but also about your gastronomic preferences. By doing so, we can craft an experience that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Your safety, well-being and satisfaction are at the forefront of our personalized service, making every ride with us a truly unforgettable experience.
For our horseback riding vacations, the general guideline sets the minimum age for participants at 6 years old. However, age restrictions can vary based on the destination and individual circumstances. We take into consideration factors such as size, stamina, and riding ability, as well as the dynamics of the group.
At the heart of our philosophy is a commitment to providing tailor-made experiences for each guest. We understand that everyone is unique, and our goal is to design experiences that cater to individual preferences and needs.
If you find yourself unsure whether a horse-riding holiday is the perfect fit for your family, particularly when considering the participation of your children, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We understand that safety and comfort are paramount, especially when it comes to younger riders. We will be more than happy to assist you in making an informed decision.
Feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, with any questions or concerns, and we will work together to ensure that your horse-riding adventure becomes a cherished and memorable experience for every member of your family.
When gearing up for your horseback riding trip in France, packing the right essentials is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Each horse-riding holiday is unique, and your packing list will be influenced by factors such as the weather conditions, the ride’s difficulty, the destination’s disease risks and sometimes dress code requirements for riding in nature. Before embarking on your journey, we provide guests with a comprehensive list tailored to their specific horse-riding holiday.
We have outlined a typical packing list designed to cover the basics for riders :
For the time in the saddle:
- Riding Pants: Choose the fabric based on the weather of the destination, ensuring comfort and adaptability.
- Riding Boots and Chaps: If not provided on-site, these are essential for a secure and comfortable ride.
- Lightweight Riding Helmet: Ensure you have a suitable helmet for protection, especially if not provided on-site.
- Sports Bras for Women: Prioritize support and comfort during rides.
- Long Socks: Opt for woolen ones in colder weather to keep your feet warm and cozy.
- Button-Up Long-Sleeved Cotton Shirts: Choose thermal options in cold weather for added warmth.
- Fleece or Wool Jumper: Layering is key, and a jumper provides insulation during cooler rides.
- Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket: Be prepared for unexpected weather changes with a reliable, waterproof jacket.
- Waterproof Over Trousers: Protect yourself from rain and wind with these essential over trousers.
- Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from sun, wind, and dust for a clear and comfortable ride.
- Riding Gloves: Ensure a good grip and protect your hands during the ride.
- Filtered Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with clean water throughout your journey.
- Sunscreen: Guard against sun exposure, especially for extended rides under the open sky.
For after the ride:
- Hat and Gloves : Stay warm during chilly evenings after your ride.
- Sun Hat: Shield yourself from the sun during the afternoon visits.
- Soft Shoes: Slip into comfortable footwear after hours in riding boots.
- Comfortable Loungewear: Relax and unwind post-ride with comfortable clothing.
- First-Aid Necessities: Be prepared with a basic first-aid kit, based on your medical needs.
- Paracetamol: For general pain relief and fever.
- Gastro-Stop Medication: To address digestive issues if they arise.
- Nurofen or Ibuprofen: In case of muscle soreness for a comfortable recovery.
Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized, especially in varying weather conditions.
For Loire Valley Castles Tour, our partnering tour operator does not require participants to have travel insurance and medical coverage. However, we highly recommend securing travel insurance and medical coverage for your convenience and peace of mind.
Should you decide to purchase insurance, please ensure that it covers personal liability, medical expenses (including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation), accidental injury, and holiday cancellation. The coverage must be valid from the moment your booking is confirmed until the end of your trip.
While travel and medical insurance are not included in our standard packages, we are happy to arrange it for you at an additional fee of 5% of the total journey cost.
We recognize the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, and, upon request, we will provide a comprehensive insurance package to ensure you can travel with confidence.
If you have any questions about the insurance options available, please don’t hesitate to reach out via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp. Your safety and peace of mind are our highest priorities.
To confirm a ride’s booking with us, guests have the possibility of sending a deposit through two payment options: Traditional bank transfer or Secure payment link.
Traditional bank transfer provides a secure and direct way to process payments.
Alternatively, secure payment link offers more convenience but usually include additional card payment fees.
A GLIMPSE INTO THE LOIRE VALLEY CASTLES TOUR
You may also like
Castles of Tuscany Tour
Lusitanos & Dressage in Provence
