Meet the Locals has crafted a magical tour in the Loire Valley to make the whole family feel like they are living out a fairytale!

The Loire Valley is the cradle of French castles. There are around 300 castles in this region alone! Not only are there a number of fortified castles from the Middle Ages, but by around the 15^th century, French kings spent much of their time in the region. Therefore, noblemen who wanted to be close to the royals installed themselves there, bringing along with them the best architects in France. The result: a resurgence of outstanding Renaissance architecture in hundreds of castles, just waiting for you to visit!

So get ready for a fanciful day! Your kid-friendly guide and private chauffeur will pick you up at your hotel or location of your choice in Paris. You’ll stop for a quick bite on your way out of town, the French way: munch on a buttery croissant or pain or chocolate. Yum!

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After about 2 hours, you’ll arrive at your first destination: the Castle of Chambord. Likely a source of Walt Disney’s inspiration, this extraordinary castle will enchant you in real life! This is one of the most recognizable castles in the entire world, and for good reason: its distinctive French Renaissance architecture is simply breathtaking. Built in the middle of nowhere by Francois I, this outstanding castle was designed with no defense purposes, only aesthetic ones, and was created to be seen from afar. Castles like this one were constructed to symbolize royal power, and this one was certainly meant to dazzle its guests. It may have over 400 rooms and over 250 fireplaces, but its most recognizable feature is its famous double-helix staircase. While visiting the castle, your “Mary Poppins” guide will teach you all about French Renaissance architecture and daily life of this time. Be ready to be transported back to the splendor of the Renaissance!

Following your visit to this wondrous castle, you’ll head to Chaumont-sur-Loire. There you will board a traditional wooden boat from Loire called a ‘toue.’ Spend two hours sailing down the river as you enjoy a tasty picnic and take in the relaxing views with your loved ones. Disembark at the charming town of Amboise, where your private chauffeur will meet you.

Next up, you will visit the Chateau du Clos-Lucé. This manor was bought in 1490 by King Charles VII. Then his son, Francis I, owned the castle for several decades before gifting it to Leonardo da Vinci when he invited him to live in France in 1516. Da Vinci lived here during his last few years, and the castle has been transformed to exposé his life and show exactly how he lived. Visit his workshop, which is set up with brushes and sketchbooks, as if he had just stepped out the door. Admire his inventions inside that have been recreated from his numerous sketches. Then proceed outside to the gardens see the life-size replicas! From flying machines to catapults, these interactive recreations are both fascinating and amusing; the kids will love it and will be able to more easily understand why Leonardo da Vinci is considered as one of the most brilliant men in history.

After you have visited all of these impressive sites, you and your kids will be left starry-eyed. As your private chauffeur drives you back to Paris, hear more stories from your kid-friendly historian, reflect on your favorite sights of the day, or simply enjoy the company of your loved ones. And of course- live happily ever after!

And if you would like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we can add a hot air balloon ride to your trip! The stunning views of the castles and the landscapes from above are sure to take your breath away. Just contact our superhero squad and we will arrange everything for you!

And if you’re looking for other day trips outside of Paris, check out our Champagne Tour or Normandy Tour.