From Tours: Chambord, Chenonceau & Lunch at Family Chateau

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through fairytale castles, soaking up the elegance of French Renaissance architecture, and tasting local flavors all in one day, this tour promises just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the glowing reviews, detailed itinerary, and thoughtfully curated experience suggest it’s a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and authentic dining.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the highlight castles of Château de Chambord and Chenonceau—two icons of the Loire Valley—along with a unique opportunity to enjoy lunch at a smaller, privately owned chateau. And with a small group of just eight participants, it feels personal, intimate, and flexible enough to cater to your curiosity.

A possible consideration? The full-day structure means you’ll need comfortable shoes and a willingness to walk quite a bit. It’s also worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children under four or travelers in wheelchairs. But overall, this experience offers a fantastic way for those who love history, architecture, and French countryside to see some of the best the Loire has to offer, all with expert guidance.

Who is this tour best suited for?

It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone eager to explore the Loire’s most stunning castles without the stress of planning. The inclusion of a private lunch makes it ideal for those who enjoy authentic, home-cooked French cuisine in a charming setting. If you prefer flexible sightseeing with guided insights, this tour checks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging stories and insider tips.
• Stunning Castles: Visit two of the most famous Loire castles, each with unique architectural features and scenic surroundings.
• Authentic Lunch: Enjoy a home-style meal at a privately owned chateau, tasting regional dishes and local wine.
• Small Group Experience: With only eight people, you’ll get a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere.
• Efficient Itinerary: Carefully planned stops allow ample exploration and free time to soak in the scenery.
• Value for Money: The price includes entry fees, transportation, a guide, and a memorable lunch, making it a comprehensive package.

The Full-Day Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour begins at the Tourist Office in Tours, setting a comfortable start for your Loire adventure. From there, the journey is designed to maximize your time at each site while maintaining a relaxed pace.

First Stop: Château de Chenonceau
As one of France’s most photographed castles, Chenonceau is famous for its picturesque position spanning the Cher River. The guided tour here lasts about two hours, giving you a thorough look at the castle’s elegant rooms, exquisite antiques, and vibrant floral arrangements. Reviewers repeatedly mention the guide’s excellent English skills and storytelling ability, which bring the history of the castle to life. One guest noted, “Our guide Chloe was charming, knowledgeable, and made the experience much richer.”

Expect to see the rooms associated with Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers, the two women who left a significant mark on the castle’s history. The gardens are also a highlight, perfect for a leisurely stroll or some memorable photos.

Next: Lunch at Château de Villesavin
A short drive away, you’ll stop at the Château de Villesavin, a cozy family-owned property that is still occupied today. Here, you’ll indulge in a traditional French meal featuring regional products and local wine. Several reviews point out how special it is to dine in a private castle—an experience that feels both exclusive and authentic. “The home-cooked meal, prepared by Veronique, was delicious and felt like dining with friends,” one reviewer shared.

While the meal itself is a highlight, the charming setting and warm hospitality make this a memorable part of the day. The stop allows some downtime and an opportunity to chat with fellow travelers sharing the experience.

Final Stop: Château de Chambord
The grand finale is the majestic Château de Chambord, arguably the most iconic castle in the Loire. With its vast park and distinctive double helix staircase, it’s a sight that will leave you in awe. Expect a guided tour of the castle’s apartments, where your guide will share anecdotes about King Francis I and hidden details that make Chambord fascinating. One guest raved, “The guide’s stories about the architecture and history made the visit even more interesting.”

You’ll also enjoy free time to wander around the sprawling grounds, take photos, or simply soak in the scenery. A coffee break in the park provides a relaxing moment before heading back.

Back to Tours
After a day filled with castles, stories, and regional flavors, the tour concludes back at the Tourist Office in Tours, with plenty of memories and photo opportunities to cherish.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of two major castles with a private lunch provides a rich, balanced experience. You’ll spend quality time exploring the castles’ interiors, gardens, and architectural details, rather than rushing through. The inclusion of a local, family-owned château for lunch is a standout feature, giving you a taste of genuine French hospitality and cuisine, far away from tourist traps.

Transportation in a small, comfortable van ensures the group remains intimate, allowing for easier conversations and personalized attention from guides. Many reviews mention how guides like Chloe, Dimitri, and Marian made the day engaging with their enthusiasm and knowledge—a factor that elevates this tour beyond just sightseeing.

The value for money is quite clear when you consider that the ticket price covers entry to two major castles, a private lunch, transportation, and a guide. For a full-day experience that hits the highlights and offers authentic touches, the cost is justified.

The flexibility and pacing—with free time at each site—means you can explore at your own pace or ask questions. Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated the ample exploration time, especially at Chambord, where the grounds are expansive.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be walking quite a bit at each site and in the gardens.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, especially at Chenonceau and Chambord’s scenic views.
• Prepare for the weather, as much of the tour is outdoors, and the Loire Valley weather can change unexpectedly.
• Arrive early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start—some reviewers noted that parking can be tricky nearby.
• Consider bringing a small backpack for water, snacks, or extra layers, though snacks aren’t included on the bus.
• Note that children under four and wheelchair users are not suitable for this tour, so plan accordingly if traveling with family or guests with mobility needs.

Why It’s Worth Considering

This tour offers a well-rounded exposure to the Loire’s most photogenic castles along with a taste of local life, thanks to the private lunch. The expert guides, many of whom are praised for their storytelling and friendliness, make the experience richer and more engaging. The small group size ensures that it remains intimate, allowing for more personalized interactions.

The scenery along the drive—past French villages and rolling fields—is another bonus, giving you a true taste of the region outside of just the castles. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive, beautiful slice of the Loire Valley, this tour packs in a lot without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to see iconic castles like Chambord and Chenonceau with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy a private, home-style lunch, this tour hits the mark. It balances sightseeing and leisure perfectly, providing insight into France’s regal past while allowing time to appreciate the scenery and regional flavors. The small group dynamic and inclusion of a private lunch elevate the whole experience, making it feel special and authentic.

While it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility challenges, it’s ideal for those who love history, architecture, and good food. The value—covering entry fees, transportation, a guide, and a memorable meal—makes it a ‘must-do’ for anyone visiting the Loire Valley who wants to maximize their day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the tour begins at the Tourist Office in Tours. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including visits, meals, and travel time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old. The tour involves a lot of walking and standing, so consider your child’s comfort and mobility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking at each castle and exploring outdoor gardens.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional French lunch at a privately owned chateau is included in the price.

Can I explore the castles on my own?
Yes, the tour includes free time at each site to wander and explore beyond the guided visits.

Is the guide bilingual?
All guides speak English and are praised for their storytelling and knowledge.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The lunch is prepared with regional products, and while reviews mention it’s delicious, it might be best to specify any dietary needs when booking or inquire directly with the tour provider.

In short, this tour offers a carefully curated, immersive day into the heart of the Loire Valley’s castles, culture, and cuisine. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want authentic, meaningful experiences and enjoy the company of a small, friendly group.