Loire Valley Castles: Day Trip with Wine Tasting

Two French castles, each uniquely beautiful and a wine tasting with more than a splash of good French wine. All amid the stunning scenery of the Loire Valley. This memorable day trip from Paris is a fairy-tale feast for the senses!
Explore the heart and soul of the French countryside, starting at Château de Chambord, the largest castle in the valley. If you think it looks familiar, you might be thinking of Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast', which was inspired by this very place. Climb the staircase that was supposedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci, and don't miss the spectacular views from the turrets, where you can look for the wild deer that roam the grounds.
Having worked up an appetite, it's on to your next stop: the quaint town of Blois, where you'll get some free time to enjoy lunch at your own expense in one of the restaurants around the vibrant Square Louis XII. After that, head to Blois, known for its unique mix of Medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture... and some pretty tragic history - gulp.
From here, it's on to the so-called 'Ladies' Château', Château de Chenonceau. This elegant 16th-century castle was designed and owned solely by women. It has all the storybook trimmings, from painted wooden doors and a smooth stone exterior to stone carvings, huge tapestries, and beautiful period furniture.
Don't miss the spectacular and beautiful bridge that spans the river Cher. Originally used to hold balls and parties. Explore the gardens and the rest of the castle, then quench your thirst with a wine tasting (three wines from the château's vineyard) led by your guide in the Cave des Dômes. This vaulted cellar full of barrels is every wine lover's dream!
Duration: 13 hours