I am going to the Loire Valley at the beginning of June for 4 days. I need help in deciding the best base, Tours or Blois. I will be relying on the train, bus or bike to see the area.
I need a budget B&B or Hotel. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.
Posted by
Minneapolis/St. Paul
113 posts
A few things to consider: First of all, do you want a bigger, more urban setting or a smaller town? Tours proper has around 140,000 residents, while Blois has probably 50,000. I've stayed in Blois and there's not a whole lot beyond the chateau. That being said, the other main factor should be which Loire Valley chateaux you want to visit. If you want to visit places like Chinon, Villandry, and Azay-le-Rideau, stay in Tours. If you want to visit Chambord, Cheverny, and places farther East, stay in Blois. Another possibility for a base would be Amboise, since it's right in between Tours and Blois and you could more easily get to chateaux both farther East and West. Also, I highly recommend doing at least one bike day. I biked from Blois to Chambord to Cheverny, and would have made the loop back to Blois if it hadn't been for a sudden downpour. The "Loire a Velo" routes are well marked in the region. Most bike rental places should have maps and possibly a shuttle service in case you want to bike to a place and get a ride back.
Posted by
Minneapolis/St. Paul
113 posts
I should clarify that I liked Blois, it was a lovely town. It's just quieter, which to me was fine as I was off most of the time exploring the area chateaux!