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Loire Valley-how many days?

Hi,
We are traveling from Paris to the south of France via rental car in late July and August. We will be stopping for two nights in Amboise to explore the castles/chateaus and surrounding areas. Is this enough time or do you suggest longer?
Also, we will be traveling south from there and do you have any recommendations for charming villages between Amboise and Penzenas?
We would appreciate any input/experience you may have in this region to make our visit to the Loire, Limousin and Auvergne Valley a memorable one.
Thank you in advance,
David and Connie

Posted by
388 posts

Hi David, take a look at Rick's France book if you get a chance. He will have tons of information on things to see and do in and around the area. For that region you'll have only 1.5 days so you could see a few chateaux. Two full days would probably be better if you can do it. For towns between the Loire and Pezenas, you might consider the Dordogne region (i.e. Sarlat, Beynac, etc) I hope this helps some.

Posted by
4858 posts

Remember that chateaux can be like cathedrals and wineries, you can overdo it. As suggested, look in Rick's book and see if the ones he highlights sound like your cup of the. If not, do some other research and find a few that interest you.

Posted by
15 posts

Thanks Abe and Phred,
Thanks for the advice! We may end up adding a day somewhere in the Amboise area like Loches or maybe a suggestion you might have.
We heard that Sarlat has a great market and will try to hit that on the right day.
Thanks again and appreciative of any and all advice for our trip!
David and Connie