Chateaux of the Loire 2012 

We travel from London St Pancras to Paris by Eurostar, enjoying a light meal and drinks during the journey. On arrival in the French capital we continue on the high-speed service to St Pierre des Corps (Standard Class). From here we transfer the short distance to the 4-star Hotel de L'Univers, our base for five nights. (E,D)

This morning, we travel along the Loire River to the beautiful Abbey of Fontevraud, founded in 1101 by Robert d'Arbrissel. The abbey is the resting place of some of the great Plantagenets, including Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine. After a guided visit of the impressive, fascinating abbey, we depart by coach to a local vineyard, near Saumur where we are given a tour of the premises followed by a wine tasting. We dine together in the hotel tonight. (B,D)

Today we visit the marvellous Château of Chenonceau, one of France's most impressive buildings. The stunning structure was built in 1515, and the château's grand arches span the tranquil River Cher. We enjoy a guided tour followed by a three-course lunch with wine in the château's Orangerie restaurant. This afternoon is free for you to continue exploring the famous château and its pretty gardens. On Day 4 you are free to explore Tours; the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site set on the banks of the River Loire, famous for its rich architectural heritage. (Day 3-B,L; Day 4-B)

Today we travel to historic Amboise, a town which has built up around two fascinating and iconic buildings, Clos Lucé Manor and Château d'Amboise. We begin at Château du Clos Lucé, an impressive mansion where Renaissance artist and scholar Leonardo da Vinci spent the last three years of his life. Visitors can marvel at giant working models of his inventions and huge translucent panels which depict sketches and details from his paintings. We have some free time to explore the château and its park independently. After time for lunch we walk to the impressive Château d'Amboise for a guided tour. The château was built by Louis XI and Charles VIII of France, with no expense spared, in order to provide a fortified residence of unparalleled opulence. (B,D)

Following breakfast, we travel by coach to Tours station. Here we join the high-speed rail service (Standard Class) to Paris, where we connect with the Eurostar service back to London, enjoying a light meal and drinks on board. (B,E)

E = Eurostar meal, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday