Indulgence and history: experiencing the Loire in all its splendour
Text: Car Rouge
The charming capital of the Loire
Our wine tour begins in Tours, a city that delights with its historic charm and lively atmosphere. The picturesque lanes of the old town are lined with half-timbered houses, cosy cafés and bustling markets tempting visitors with regional specialities. The cathedral of Saint-Gatien reflects the region's impressive architecture, while the Place Plumereau, with its many bistros, is a popular meeting place. Tours offers the perfect blend of culture and indulgence, making it the ideal starting point for our further explorations along the Loire.
Majestic châteaux and royal history
The Loire region is famous for its magnificent châteaux, which tell stories of centuries gone by. During our Premium coach tour we will visit some of the most impressive buildings: Château de Chambord fascinates with its Renaissance architecture and the imposing jumble of towers and chimneys on its roof. The elegant Château de Chenonceau, which spans the River Cher so picturesquely, captivates with its delicate construction and eventful past. And the Château de Villandry enchants with its artfully laid-out gardens, regarded as a true masterpiece of garden design. Each of these places transports us to a world of splendour and royal elegance.
A journey for the senses: wine tasting in the Loire
Alongside its impressive architecture, wine plays a central role in this region. The Loire is one of France's most multifaceted wine-growing areas, known for its elegant sparkling wines, fresh rosés, mineral white wines and fruity reds. On our wine tour we explore renowned wine estates and are initiated into the secrets of the grape varieties by experienced winemakers. Domaine Mabileau, a traditional estate devoted to viticulture for over a century, impresses with its outstanding Cabernet Franc wines, which count among the best in the world. Equally impressive is Château Soucherie, whose vineyards extend over 28 hectares. Fine wines are produced here from Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc, including both dry white wines and the sweet Coteaux du Layon typical of the region.
Our Premium coach tour is accompanied by the renowned wine expert Christina Urhahn, who presents the Loire region in all its facets with passion and expertise. She describes the Loire as one of France's most eventful wine regions, in which every style of wine – white, rosé, red, sparkling or sweet – has its firm place. Her enthusiasm for the diversity of this region is palpable at every tasting and makes this tour an unforgettable experience for all wine lovers.
The French way of life at its finest
This wine tour is more than an exploration of the Loire – it is a tribute to the French way of life. Amid picturesque landscapes, historic buildings and exquisite wines, we experience the region with all our senses. Whether strolling through the charming streets of Tours, marvelling at architectural masterpieces or tasting a perfectly matured wine – the Loire shows its most beautiful side and invites you to enjoy life to the full. Let yourself be enchanted and immerse yourself in a world of indulgence, culture and relaxed discoveries on our Premium coach tour.
You will find further information on the wine tour to the Loire Valley at: www.car-rouge.ch/rweloir