Loire in October?

A couple years ago I was in the Loire in late Sept/early Oct and the weather was wonderful. I visited Amboise and it looked like a nice place to stay although I was only there for the day. I do wonder why you aren't returning the car and staying at the airport the last night. It sounds less stressful to me. I stayed at the Ibis last time and it was great. It was right at one of the terminals.

We were in the Loire 3 years ago in October and it was great weather and not too crowded at the chateau’s. We stayed in Tours and enjoyed it. We have also stayed in Amboise in the past and you can’t go wrong there either. I agree with Laurie Beth that staying at an airport hotel the last night will help relieve any stress. You might even consider returning your car at Saint-Pierre-des-Corps (4km from Tours town center) and take the train back to Paris. There are direct trains to CDG.

I stayed in Amboise for 5 mights last October. Great place as a base. As noted, Tours would also be good. I had very good weather, but that is always a bit of luck of the draw! Temperature was pleasant. Low chateaux "crowd levels" for me as also experienced above.

There is a direct train from Tours St Pierre to CDG. I took it last year - found it quite convenient. You could possibly return the car to Tours and train direct to the airport - recommend the night before international flight. Many airport hotels to choose from - all budgets. (unless you especially wanted to see Senlis, of course!)