Family holidays in the Loire Valley

Many of the châteaux in the Loire Valley offer entertaining tours ideal for children. At the Château Musée de Villesavin, kids can discover all aspects of country life with a mini farm. The Château de Meung-sur-Loire and the Fortress of Montbazon offer numerous historical activities and workshops where children can learn about medieval crafts and games. The inventions of Leonardo da Vinci await you at the Château du Clos-Lucé, while comic book fans can follow in the footsteps of Tintin at the Château de Cheverny and discover the 'Château de Moulinsart'. Visitors of all ages can challenge themselves with an escape game at La Ferté Saint-Aubin, La Bussière, the Royal Fortress of Chinon or the Royal Château of Blois.

The Loire Valley chateaux for families

Of course, family attractions in the Loire Valley aren't just about châteaux. Water babies will love the area's water parks, lakes and leisure centres offering various water sports. A clamber along the rope course is also ideal for letting off steam. We also recommend a horse-drawn carriage or donkey ride if the kids love animals. The Parc des Mini-Châteaux in Amboise, the Goupillères cave valley and the Maison de la Magie in Blois are other original options for excursions as a family.

Family activities in the Loire Valley

Discover the Loire Valley on two wheels! For excursions in the big cities, but also in small towns or in the vineyards, you can book segway tours. Cyclists can choose from many routes in the Loire Valley: the Loire à Vélo is perhaps the best known, and perfectly suited to families. To discover the main tourist attractions of the area, we also recommend the Châteaux à Vélo and L'Indre à Vélo cycle networks.

Cycling in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley offers lip-smacking foodie experiences for young and old. At Max Vauché, children can take part in chocolate-making workshops and take their creations home. Head to the Biscuiterie de Chambord or Atelier Saint-Michel near Chambord for biscuits and madeleines. To cheese lovers, we recommend the five types of goats' cheese from the area, each with a Protected Designation of Origin. You can find out more about their production by visiting a farm like Ferme Cabri au Lait or La Cabinette. At the Saute-Mouton organic farm, kids can learn more about the life of an organic farmer. And did you know that mushroom growing plays an important role in the Loire Valley? The mushroom beds in the local caves can be an interesting stop for families.

Foodie family activities

Looking for a slightly different kind of hotel to make your Loire Valley stay unforgettable? Many campsites and other service providers offer a wide choice of unusual accommodation, from treehouses and ecolodges to caravans, yurts, teepees and even caves. What takes your fancy?

Quirky accommodation in the Loire Valley