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The World Heritage Centre is at the forefront of the international community’s efforts to protect and preserve World Heritage partnerships for conservation Ensuring that World Heritage sites sustain their outstanding universal value is an increasingly challenging mission in today’s complex world where sites are vulnerable to the effects of uncontrolled urban development Our Partners Donate Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information The Loire Valley is an outstanding cultural landscape of great beauty great architectural monuments (the châteaux) and cultivated lands formed by many centuries of interaction between their population and the physical environment Le Val de Loire est un paysage culturel exceptionnel comprenant des villes et villages historiques de grands monuments architecturaux - les châteaux - et des terres cultivées façonnées par des siècles d'interaction entre les populations et leur environnement physique تشكّل  وادي نهر اللوار منظراً ثقافياً استثنائياً يشمل مُدناً وقرى تاريخية ونصباً هندسية عظيمة أي القصور، وأراض مزروعة حرثتها قرون من التفاعل بين الشعوب ومحيطها الحسيّ الذي يجسده نهر اللوار بنفسه 卢瓦尔河谷拥有最美丽、最杰出的文化景观，沿岸分布着大量的历史名镇和村庄、雄伟的建筑古迹（城堡），以及几个世纪以来人类开垦的耕地，这是人类和自然环境（主要是卢瓦尔河）相互作用、和谐发展的结果。 Долина Луары – это выдающийся культурный ландшафт исключительной живописности величественные архитектурные памятники – замки Также ландшафт составляют окультуренные земли которые формировались веками в процессе взаимодействия человека с окружающей его средой и posee pequeñas ciudades y pueblos históricos grandes monumentos arquitectónicos (castillos y palacios) y tierras de cultivo que son el resultado de la interacción entre sus habitantes y el medio físico The property of the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes is located in the regions of the Centre-Val-de-Loire and Pays-de-la-Loire This cultural landscape covers a section of the Middle course of the 280km river including the minor and major beds of the river It is formed by many centuries of interaction between the river the land that it irrigates and the populations established there throughout history The Loire has been a major communication and commercial axis since Gallo-Roman times up until the 19th century thus encouraging the economic development of the valley and its towns Witness to the many works destined to channel the river for navigation and the protection of humankind and the land against flooding The Loire has formed as much the rural landscapes in the organization of the land and the types of culture (market gardening translate both the physical characteristics of the different parts of the river and their historical evolution the banks of the Loire are punctuated by villages and towns among which are Sully The political and social history of France and Western Europe in the Middle Ages as well as during the Renaissance the period when the Loire Valley was a seat of royal power is illustrated by the buildings and castles that have made it famous they were transformed during the Renaissance into country houses for recreation and pleasure with gardens and vistas open to the countryside The Loire Valley also contains a series of large witness to the expression of faith of the sovereigns and the people: Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire the Loire Valley constituted a major cultural area for encounters and influences between the Italian Mediterranean and participated in the development of garden art and the emergence of interest in the landscape Criterion (i): The Loire Valley is noteworthy for the quality of its architectural heritage but in particular in its world-famous castles Criterion (ii): The Loire Valley is an outstanding cultural landscape along a major river It bears witness to an interchange of human values and to a harmonious development of interactions between humankind and their environment over two millennia Criterion (iv): The landscape of the Loire Valley and more particularly its many cultural monuments illustrate to an exceptional degree the ideals of the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment on western European thought and design The historical trajectory of the Loire Valley is clearly visible in the current landscape urban and landscape typologies of the property is fully and widely represented over 280 kilometres The Loire Valley conserves a high degree of authenticity of the ensemble and notably the principal urban centres and monuments through their uses and materials several factors risk affecting the property: agricultural mutations installation of activity zones surrounding towns and traffic axes The ownership regime of this extensive property is very diverse including numerous public and private ownerships The river and its banks belong in the public river domain directly managed by the State The protection of the property is based on the complementarity of several regulations according to the heritage notably: Historic Monuments and their surroundings large castles or more modest monuments are protected under the Heritage Code (Historic Monuments) and a certain number are undergoing restoration and receive regular maintenance Several dozen urban centres are protected under the Remarkable Patrimonial Sites which has enabled the launching of major rehabilitation programmes several dozens of sites are listed for application of the Environment Code to enable the preservation of large areas of the landscape The works linked to the river are regularly maintained or restored Biodiversity protection preserves the bed of the river undergoing dynamic demographic and economic change coordination of the management of the property is ensured by the State and the two regions concerned with specific facilities (a structure and an orientation committee adapted to the property) The management plan identifies the major risks that threaten the property and includes proposals to reduce them The implementation of additional regulatory protective measures the awareness raising and training of local collectivities and populations to the challenges for the protection of the inscribed property the surveillance of important equipment projects are continuously carried out by the public and private stakeholders of the Val de Loire which was previously inscribed on the World Heritage List is part of the "Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes" Olympic Membership - Free Live Stream Sports & Original Series - join now! 🥇 Olympic Torch Relay | Stage 53 - Loiret | Olympic Games Paris 2024Watch the highlights of the 53rd stage of the Olympic Torch Relay for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 that took place in Loiret the Olympic Torch Relay explored an area that is rich in contrasts and where history traditions and a natural environment that is as diverse as it is generous Its route took it through the agricultural plains of the Beauce It also visited the wild nature reserves of the Sologne and it explored several picturesque villages with undeniable charm The life of luxury experienced by the Olympic Torch Relay in the Loir-et-Cher and its castles plus stately mansions continued at the start of the day It was in the heart of the wooded gardens of the Château de Malesherbes that this 53rd stage began The route through Le Malesherbois passed along Avenue Lévis Mirepoix to the sports hall named after Alain Mimoun an athlete who won the marathon at the Melbourne Olympic Games in 1956 The adventure continued in Sully-sur-Loire and its castle which is a must-see and also the eastern gateway to the Loire Valley After a stop in the parkland around the edifice the Olympic Torch then headed to Montargis nicknamed “Venice of the Gâtinais” due to its canals and picturesque bridges which the torchbearers were able to appreciate as they headed form the Stade Champfleuri stadium to the Pont Saint-Roch bridge along the Route des Sept Frères the convoy breathed in the fresh air of the Beauce agricultural plains setting off from Place du Général Leclerc to the seat of Neuville Sports Football The afternoon got off to a flying start with the arrival of three parachutists at the start in Gien The Olympic Torch Relay took in the sights of the famous Gien pottery works which was founded in 1821 and went on to become one of the most important in Europe It then discovered the Château de Gien manor and then crossed the Loire River to Place du Maréchal Foch the torchbearers made their way through Place du Maupas then visited the castle before moving on to the Parc du Quai Jeanne d’Arc by which point it was time to head to Orléans The Olympic Torch Relay’s journey through Orléans began at Parc Léon Chenault before it lit up the emblematic Pont George V bridge the quays along the Loire River and Orléans’ theatre The cortege finished the day at Place du Martroi a venue renowned for the Statue of Joan of Arc but also thanks to the sporting events put on there each year by the French Federation of Volleyball (FFV) The federation took advantage of the occasion to organise its second collective Olympic Torch Relay winning a bronze medal at the Mediterranean Games in 2001 and in Orléans she led a delegation of 24 champions referees and volunteers from the discipline enthusiastic and unifying tone for the celebrations afterwards at the esplanade on Boulevard Alexandre Martin A vibrant and rhythmic welcome awaited the Olympic Torch on Boulevard Alexandre Martin where Lou Orblin celebrated the 53rd stage of the relay with a unique performance The innovative dancer boasts an exceptional background having trained in both ballet and breakdancing enabling her to push back the boundaries of her art and offer performances as daring as they are captivating for spectators The watching crowds were won over by the dancer’s technical ability part of a project called the Cultural Olympics led by the National Choreography Centre in Orléans who will also be in charge of the dances at the Paris 2024 opening and closing ceremonies The choreographer's aim is to bring together young people different generations and the diversity of the population by using the body and its movements as a means of expression Based on Lou Orblin's inspiring and acclaimed performance Almost 140 torchbearers took it in turns to carry the Olympic Torch today with regional champions rubbing shoulders with members of the general public boasting inspiring stories Local judoka Laurent Jeuffroy was one of the day’s first torchbearers The three times judo kata world champion and seven times European champion is actively involved in the development of his sport as a coach the Olympic Torch was handed over to Stéphane Goudou The Loiret native and wheelchair tennis champion collected many titles throughout his career He was part of the French wheelchair tennis team at the Paralympic Games in London in 2012 and Rio in 2016 who played for Septors du Saran Loiret Handball club for 20 years one of the torchbearers received an especially warm welcome namely 100-year-old Maurice Chatelet who has lived a very full life He has devoted a great part of his life to sport and volunteering chairman of the regional Olympic and sports committee treasurer of the French Federation of Gymnastics or founder of the first handball club in Orléans who took part in organising the para-badminton French championships in 2019 the Olympic Torch was handed over to Mona Francis to light the celebration cauldron the para-triathlon European Champion in 2022 has been involved since the beginning in the Olympic Torch Relay She is one of its captains alongside Laure and Florent Manaudou as well as Dimitri Pavadé the Olympic Torch will be present in the Yonne area The route of the relay will put the spotlight on its natural landscapes and exceptional cultural heritage Several castles will have pride of place before the Olympic Torch Relay concludes the day Auxerre where the torchbearers will visit the legendary Abbé Deschamps stadium A journey along the banks of the Yonne River will bring the Olympic Torch to the Parc de Roscoff which is the final destination of the 54th stage The celebration cauldron will be lit just 15 days before the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games A key initiative of that commitment is increasing the use of recycled wood for particleboard production “We started using recycled wood in our particleboard production 10 years ago,” explains Guillaume Salmon 50% of our raw material came from recycled wood Then we set a target to increase the share of recycled wood even more.” Swiss Krono commissioned Dieffenbacher to modernise optimize and expand its wood recycling line the modernised line has boosted the share of recycled wood in the plant’s wood mix from 50% to about 65% “We chose Dieffenbacher for the modernization project not only because we were convinced by the proposed solution and the price was fair but also because we had a good connection with their people the local representative here in France who closely followed the project from the very beginning,” reminisces Guillaume Salmon The Dieffenbacher solution for Swiss Krono included a stone separator in combination with new rollers to clean the microchips X-ray sorting to remove non-wooden impurities from the chip-sized material a flip-flop screen that separates unusable dust upstream of the dryer sifting tables that clean fine particles from sand and MDF fibers and a Prallfiner to produce the fine core layer material “Despite the challenging circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic the collaboration with Dieffenbacher was excellent at all times We always found a solution to every issue,” says Guillaume Salmon Dieffenbacher created a 3D scan of our existing structures This was very important because the whole setup—most of it is located in a multistory tower—was quite complex we were not only able to integrate the new equipment perfectly into our existing structures but we also used it frequently in communication to inform our employees in the factory about the project.” In addition to increasing the share of recycled wood in the wood mix the Dieffenbacher solution has provided other improvements Processing recycled wood creates a lot of dust and the machines can get dirty very quickly if they’re not properly maintained and cleaned The new line is easier to keep clean than the old one,” reports Guillaume Salmon Another of Swiss Krono’s goals was to ensure perfect board quality while increasing the recycled wood ratio customers sometimes complained about metal parts in the boards which damaged their machinery,” Guillaume Salmon recalls “Since we started using the new Dieffenbacher equipment We’re satisfied and would recommend Dieffenbacher recycling solutions to anyone,” he concludes As the Olympic flame arrives in the French capital ahead of the grand opening ceremony we pick some of our favourite heritage landmarks it has visited along the way… All eyes might be on Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games but in the lead up to tonight’s grand opening ceremony (26 July) the entirety of France has been represented as the Olympic torch has been passed through the country the flame has also passed more than 30 UNESCO World Heritage Sites we select a few of our favourites that had their moment in the (torch) light Perching on a rocky outcrop in the region of Occitanie the citadel of Carcassonne has history of being a fortified settlement dating back to the pre-Roman period with examples of 1,000 year old military architecture throughout the Medieval walls encompass 12th-century Château Comtal – now a museum – and 13th-century Carcassonne Cathedral Visitors can also join guided walking tours to learn more about the preserved watchtowers and ramparts dotted around the historic town This tidal island lying on the sands of Normandy’s coastline is one of France’s most iconic monuments outside of the capital Mont-Saint-Michel has been an important Christian pilgrimage site since the 8th century The Benedictine abbey was officially founded in 966 with further buildings added during the Middle Ages some of the village streets surrounding the abbey contain museums and restaurants for visitors There’s a bridge that crosses to the island from the mainland Date visited by the Olympic torch: 17 June It’s not only mainland France being highlighted on the tour The French Department of Martinique can be found across the Atlantic Ocean in the Caribbean’s Lesser Antilles This natural landscape has been shaped by volcanic activity over thousands of years last erupted in the year 1902 – and is sadly known as one of the deadliest eruptions of the 20th century and can be explored on foot on one of the marked hiking trails surrounding it More than 40% of the island is also made up of rainforests – also recognised under its UNESCO-listing – which is home to endemic species such as the Martinique Volcano Frog Date visited by the Olympic torch: 26 June Strasbourg may be the capital of France’s Grand Est region but the feeling in its historic centre has a distinct Germanic influence Practically straddling the border between both countries but it makes for combination unique to Strasbourg Its UNESCO-listed The Grande-Île (large island) can be found in the historic centre with its fairytale half-timbered houses and its cathedral being a fine example of Rayonnant Gothic architecture Neustadt (new town) was added to the UNESCO listing in 2017: the urban extension mostly took place in the late 19th century and includes several architectural styles from Baroque Revival and Renaissance Revival to Art Nouveau Date visited by the Olympic torch: 30 June Reims is known as the capital of the Champagne wine-region with many cellars in the city providing tours and tastings to visitors its UNESCO-listed Cathedral of Notre-Dame gives the capital’s cathedral a run for its money with its building completed in the 14th century but it is larger in scale and is widely considered as one of France’s greatest examples of Gothic architecture Adjoined to the cathedral is the Palace of Tau the former home the archbishop and temporary residence of the kings during their coronation at the cathedral Within walking distance is the Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi founded in the 8th century by a Benedictine community of monks The architecture is mostly from the 18th century and today houses a museum of archaeology and art the Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin stretches 120km across the department of Nord and Pas-de-Calais and incorporates more than 100 separate components This UNESCO World Heritage Site tells the story of France’s more recent history with the landscape shaped across three centuries (1700s-1900s) of coal extraction Visitors can walk in the miners’ footsteps and discover industrial buildings dwellings and slag heaps that have been carefully preserved one of the largest mining museums in Europe Date visited by the Olympic torch: 8/10 July Carving its way through central France is the 280km-long Loire River This particular stretch between the communes of Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes is recognised by UNESCO for its cultural landscape formed by a long relationship with the river Tucked between the meandering water are centuries-old settlements that live on today as villages The Châteaux of the Loire Valley some of the most beautiful examples of Renaissance architecture in France with the towns of Blois and Orléans being the main towns visited by the Olympic flame To continue following the Olympic Torch relay, go to olympics.com Sign up to our newsletter for free with the Wanderlust Club Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience From the gardens of the Loire Valley to the fertile plains of the Beauce from the ponds of the Brenne to the game-filled forest of Orléans not forgetting the vineyards of Touraine or Sancerrois the Centre-Val-de-Loire is well deserving of its nickname "The Garden of France" the region's natural and agricultural resources have nurtured a rich gastronomic tradition a dazzling reflection of the French art of living Home to François Rabelais - and his insatiable Gargantua character - the region is also the one that succeeded in having the "Gastronomic Meal of the French" inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible World Heritage Sites The countless local products that invade the region's lively markets every day are naturally showcased by local chefs and restaurateurs ; ambassadors of the Loire region's flavours distinguished each year in the MICHELIN Guide selection Whether at the helm of a Michelin-starred restaurant or a bistro they all invite their guests to discover the Centre-Val-de-Loire through its cuisine and gustatory wonders such as the five goat cheeses protected by PDO (Valençay Crottin-de-Chavignol) or the many wines classified as AOC or IGP A visit to the Centre-Val de Loire region is an opportunity to discover a vast territory where nature and culture come together in harmony With its many tributaries such as the Cher the Loire is both the backbone of the region and its cultural heart its exceptional landscapes are the result of constant interaction between the river the people who live along its banks and their environment A major route for the spread of the Italian Renaissance in France the Loire Valley and its castles - between Sully and Chalonnes - have been on UNESCO's World Heritage list since 2000 two other sites in the region have also been classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Chartres Cathedral and Bourges Cathedral which has just been designated European Capital of Culture for 2028. the Centre-Val de Loire region is also France's No The region invites you to practice virtuous slow tourism irrigated by an infinite number of greenways and cycle routes The most famous of these is La Loire à Vélo (EuroVelo 6) which crosses the region superbly from one end to the other (over 900 km in all) Cœur de France à Vélo (along the Cher and Berry canals) which criss-crosses a large part of the Eure-et-Loir region It's also an opportunity to discover the region's exceptional biodiversity particularly in its 3 regional nature parks (Loire-Anjou-Touraine the Loir-et-Cher has nothing to envy its neighbor Selles-sur-Cher PDO goat's cheese and Perche clover AOC Cheverny and Touraine wines are increasingly popular visitors can enjoy an exceptional heritage : Blois and its château (where the Duke of Guise was assassinated) Chaumont-sur-Loire (home to the famous International Garden Festival) the château de Cheverny (whose silhouette inspired Hergé's Moulinsart) and the little-known château de Talcy There are many charming villages to explore including Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire and Lavardin (classified as France's Most Beautiful Villages) you'll be spoilt for choice: the wild banks of the Loire and Cher rivers sometimes referred to by its former name of Orléanais you can enjoy fresh vegetables (such as Sologne asparagus) pithiviers (sweet or savory puff pastry) or andouilles de Jargeau Vinegar and Orléans mustard are used for seasoning try Orléans fruit macaroons or Montargis pralines try the fine wines of Coteaux du Giennois or AOC Orléans-Cléry History buffs won't want to miss a visit to Orléans The charming villages of Meung-sur-Loire and Yèvre-le-Châtel (listed as the most beautiful village in France) also offer pleasant walks while aesthetes can discover Gien and its Musée de la Faïencerie In addition to the wild banks of the Loire nature lovers can explore the Orléans forest (the largest in mainland France) and the moors of the Loiret Solognot region You'll be delighted to taste the Pâté de Pâques Berrichon (a meat pastry) trout and sturgeon that abound in the Brenne ponds green lentils from Berry and asparagus are a must game and mushrooms are abundant on good tables they welcome Pouligny-Saint-Pierre or Valençay There's no shortage of places to visit in Indre Gargilesse-Dampierre and Saint-Benoît-du-Saux are among France's most beautiful villages But also the cities of Châteauroux and Issoudun nature is particularly grandiose in the Brenne Regional Nature Park From listening bars to neighbourhood restaurants explore all the top recommendations from Chishuru’s Adejoké Bakare One of the most prominent chefs serving Indian cuisine talks India and his New York these splurge-worthy hotels have the design and prestige to rival even that most historic of city landmarks The first hotel on this list is just 20 minutes from Florence From vineyards to infinity pools and farm-to-table restaurants every one of these 14 Tuscan classics is within two hours of the city The Mexican capital takes center stage alongside the culinary world's top talents the best hotel rooftops are a go-to when you touch down From Texas Barbecue to Mexico City's cutting-edge dining these new MICHELIN Guide hot spots promise unforgettable vacations and world-class cuisine These are the best lake vacations for a summer break from Lake Tahoe in the US to Lake Como in Switzerland and the MICHELIN-recommended restaurants and bolt holes to bed down in when you visit The MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have already added hundreds of hotels to the MICHELIN selection in 2025 we’re highlighting a special list of 10 that thrive in the sunny season ​13 new restaurants receive their first MICHELIN Star ​Three new establishments are awarded the MICHELIN Green Star explore some of its best MICHELIN Guide dining spots and uncover its hidden gems From exquisite cuisine to artisan treasures get to know the Tuscan city like a local with our handy guide for a curated taste of Florence’s finest Marseille is a crossroads of culture and cuisine shaped by 2,600 years of migration and maritime trade From its Greek founders to waves of immigrants from Italy each community has left an indelible mark on the city’s dynamic food culture Croatian cuisine boasts a strong identity that reflects both the land and the sea Southern England's Dartmoor National Park boasts a unique granite landscape which takes in rocky outcrops ancient forests and globally significant wetlands fauna and historical sites are just waiting to be explored based on what's freshest at his local farm Her fully Italian wine list is farmer first and blends perfectly with rustic Italian cooking Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial By continuing I accept the Terms & Condition and Privacy Policy. I would like to receive Newsletter from MICHELIN Guide Save lists of your favorite restaurants & hotels Home to Fran\u00e7ois Rabelais - and his insatiable Gargantua character - the region is also the one that succeeded in having the \"Gastronomic Meal of the French\" inscribed on UNESCO's list of Intangible World Heritage Sites such as the five goat cheeses protected by PDO (Valen\u00e7ay The most famous of these is La Loire \u00e0 V\u00e9lo (EuroVelo 6) C\u0153ur de France \u00e0 V\u00e9lo (along the Cher and Berry canals) Vall\u00e9e du Loir and V\u00e9losc\u00e9nie visitors can enjoy an exceptional heritage : Blois and its ch\u00e2teau (where the Duke of Guise was assassinated) the ch\u00e2teau de Cheverny (whose silhouette inspired Herg\u00e9's Moulinsart) and the little-known ch\u00e2teau de Talcy including Saint-Dy\u00e9-sur-Loire and Lavardin (classified as France's Most Beautiful Villages) sometimes referred to by its former name of Orl\u00e9anais Vinegar and Orl\u00e9ans mustard are used for seasoning try Orl\u00e9ans fruit macaroons or Montargis pralines try the fine wines of Coteaux du Giennois or AOC Orl\u00e9ans-Cl\u00e9ry History buffs won't want to miss a visit to Orl\u00e9ans nicknamed the \"Venice of the G\u00e2tinais\" The charming villages of Meung-sur-Loire and Y\u00e8vre-le-Ch\u00e2tel (listed as the most beautiful village in France) also offer pleasant walks while aesthetes can discover Gien and its Mus\u00e9e de la Fa\u00efencerie nature lovers can explore the Orl\u00e9ans forest (the largest in mainland France) and the moors of the Loiret Solognot region You'll be delighted to taste the P\u00e2t\u00e9 de P\u00e2ques Berrichon (a meat pastry) they welcome Pouligny-Saint-Pierre or Valen\u00e7ay Gargilesse-Dampierre and Saint-Beno\u00eet-du-Saux are among France's most beautiful villages But also the cities of Ch\u00e2teauroux and Issoudun Looking for a romantic getaway in the Loire Valley Then maybe a trip to one of these enchanting French castles will inspire you By Sophie Pettit with more than 100 opening their gates to the public while all of them are beautifully maintained and come with their own unique history here are our favorites French castles to visit in the beautiful Loire Valley Plan and protect your next trip with Allyz This digital travel platform offers a range of products to assist travelers before The platform includes information and advice They also provide real-time updates so you can plan for every eventuality With its stunning French Renaissance architecture and surrounding deer-filled park, Château of Chambord is considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley. In fact Leonardo da Vinci is believed to have been partly involved in – or at least influenced – its original design in the Greek cross-shaped center-plan design and famous double-helix spiral staircase Many French kings have called the beautiful castle home since it was constructed in 1519 After passing through many hands, the Duke of Parma inherited the castle in the late 19th century. Then, in 1932, the French government bought it and restored its original appearance. Château de Chambord has remained a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981 and is open to the public for guided tours Visitors can enter the royal lodgings and access mezzanines and lofts that are off-limits to the general public via hidden flights of stairs The 10 most beautiful places to visit in France the castle is also home to the largest walled park in Europe this is one of the most impressive French castles you will discover in the Loire Valley With its high corner towers, stone arched bridge, and wide moat, Château de Sully-sur-Loire looks like something from the pages of a fairytale at a strategic crossing of the Loire river The beautiful medieval fortress was built in 1395 for Guy de La Trémoïlle it has been the home of Maximilien de Béthune (minister to King Henry IV of France) and the later dukes of Sully. It has also played host to famous historical figures including Joan of Arc Located near the small village of Chenonceaux in the Indre-et-Loire department, Château de Chenonceau is another must-see French castle It was built in 1513 by King Charles VII who then gave it to King Henry II; however he later passed it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers forced the mistress to take ownership of the castle It is now famous for having a woman’s touch You can see this in several key features including a beautiful flower garden and an Italian maze containing 2,000 yew trees The castle is also home to an extraordinary collection of furniture and paintings by some of the greatest European painters including Rubens These works of art strongly reflect the history of the château and the leading role that women played in it Perhaps the most impressive feature of the castle This offers a perfect reflection on a clear day Originally built as a fortified tower in 1532, Château de Villandry is most famous today for its spectacular Renaissance gardens these are the most celebrated in the Loire Valley these beautiful grounds include a Kitchen Garden The latter is also home to a famous Garden of Love which features romantic symbolism from the Renaissance era this is a must-visit for romantic souls with a love of nature was classed as a historical monument in 1934 Another French castle that is famous for its beautiful garden is the Gothic-Renaissance style Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire. In fact, every year since 1992, the beautiful fortress plays host to the International Garden Festival of Chaumont This sees landscape artists from all over the world create enchanting contemporary gardens that tie into a certain theme Visitors can wander among these and immerse themselves in their unique atmosphere; all the while enjoying the stunning backdrop of the château It was originally built around the year 1000 to keep watch over the border between the counties of Blois and Anjou King Louis XI burned it to the ground as a punishment to its owner who took part in an anti-royalist movement Although the castle was originally designed with gothic elements it was later transformed into the Renaissance style You can see this in its ornate sculpted decor and rich furniture If you grew up loving fairy tales, then a trip to the enchanting Château d’Ussé is definitely in order. After all, it is said that this whimsical French castle was the inspiration for Charles Perrault’s classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. Many also believe it inspired some of Walt Disney’s castles And its romantic setting at the edge of the Chinon forest certainly makes it look like something from a storybook the castle even features a turret in which visitors can enjoy a delightful display of the famous tale; starring Prince Charming and Princess Aurora furnished rooms filled with mannequins dressed in period costumes bring its rich history to life The Château of Ussé was built in stages between the 15th and 17th centuries and incorporates both Gothic and Renaissance elements Among its mysterious features are a 1,000-year-old underground passage and wine cellars dating back to the 14th century Although it became a Historical Monument in 1942 It is also the only one in the Loire Valley to house the same family for more than two centuries Another stunning French castle with an interesting connection to literature is Château de Cheverny This 17th-century beauty was the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in Hergé’s famous Belgian comic book series Tintin the estate and The Hergé Foundation even built a permanent exhibition on-site called The Secrets of Marlinspike Hall This isn’t the only thing that makes Cheverny special Unlike so many French castles in the Loire Valley The château was also built using local white stone that actually gets stronger and more robust with time And its beautiful pristine exterior certainly sets it apart The castle also features a labyrinth and gardens filled with wisteria and tulips including a Venetian weekend which sees the castle grounds transform into a popular carnival The château is also famous for its hunting and is home to more than 100 dogs which visitors can visit one of Cheverny’s main attractions is watching the feeding of the hunting dogs in the afternoon Many royal families and historical figures, including Leonardo da Vinci, have walked the floors of the luxurious Château d’Amboise since the French monarchy took ownership of it in the 15th century his tomb lies in a church on the castle grounds Perched high on a hill overlooking the Loire Valley and the town of Amboise the UNESCO-listed château boasts fantastic views; particularly from its balconies passers-by can also admire its majestic reflection in the Loire River Château d’Amboise combines both Gothic and Renaissance styles and became a French Historical Monument in 1840 it remains one of the most visited French castles in the Loire Valley with its beautiful terraced gardens and orangery being particular highlights The latter also features a 3D recreation area that shows the castle’s major transformations which began under Charles VIII’s reign heading up one of the city’s biggest lifestyle websites she has written for numerous lifestyle and travel publications Paris may be the epicenter of modern France, but 500 years ago, the majestic Loire Valley was the country's heartland. Now, anyone around the world can explore the beauty of this stunning region like never before, thanks to a new online exhibition hold down Ctrl and with a long left click of your mouse you can start exploring the castle you can download the Google Earth app to see this imagery Get the latest news from Google in your inbox Don’t miss the latest drinks industry news and insights Sign up for our award-winning newsletters and get insider intel and trends delivered to your inbox every week The Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels sommelier blind-tastes a rosé in our Supertasters series James Sligh is a sommelier at Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood Sligh teaches in the bar’s wine boot-camp program Sligh worked as a somm at such wine industry insider hotspots as Rouge Tomate—where he worked closely with Master Sommelier Pascaline Lepeltier at the restaurant’s Chelsea location which earned World of Fine Wine magazine’s accolade for having the best long wine list in the world in 2017—and Pearl & Ash and as a server at Master Sommelier Laura Maniec Fiorvanti’s flagship Corkbuzz restaurant and wine bar in Manhattan Here, Sligh tastes a wine from our sponsor Loire Valley Wines The Loire Valley is made up of five distinct wine regions—from east to west Each of these regions possesses its own characteristic grapes The Loire’s offerings run the gamut from reds Loire wines also offer bright acidity and flinty minerality making them ideal for pairing with an array of cuisines Among France’s many wine-growing territories the Loire Valley leads with its white AOC wines including its AOC sparkling wines (excluding Champagne)—and ranks second for AOC rosés flowing 1,000 kilometers through the region from Mont Gerbier de Jonc in Ardèche to the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Brittany The river and its tributaries play an important role in climate fluctuation contributing to diverse terroir throughout the Loire Valley Microclimates are common and highly favorable to the cultivation of various grape varieties There are 57,200 hectares of vineyards along the river’s banks with 51 appellations of origin and 4 indication géographique protégée zones—and more than 4,000 wineries The region as a whole exports 68 million bottles every year to 157 export markets is the Loire’s largest export market in terms of both value and volume In recognition of all the contributions of the region to both French and global culture the Loire Valley—from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalonnes-sur-Loire—was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 2000 The wine Sligh tastes in this video is a blend of Gamay and Grolleau from the Rosé d’Anjou appellation Along with the Cabernet d’Anjou appellation Rosé d’Anjou is part of the appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) Anjou area which spans 128 communes in Maine-et-Loire There are 1,890 hectares of vines in the Rosé d’Anjou appellation varieties that are permitted in the AOC are Cabernet Franc These grapes tend to thrive in the area’s schist-based soils and mild continental climate The annual production of Rosé d’Anjou over the last five years has been 114,800 hectoliters with a minimum residual sugar level of 7 grams per liter The color is typically a rosy raspberry pink Classic Rosé d’Anjou yields such juicy red fruit notes as strawberries and hints of pepper and menthol on the finish Don’t miss the latest drinks industry news and insights—delivered to your inbox every week winemaker Nicole Marchesi has helped usher Far Niente into the future while honoring the legendary winery’s roots PDO Santorini’s distinctive volcanic terroir the exceptional qualities of its Assyrtiko grapes and the unique vine-growing methods employed by its winemakers all contribute to the unparalleled character of its wines Italian icon Florio has both pioneered and perfected the famous fortified wine in the town of Marsala Far Niente Wine Estates has built a portfolio of emblematic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons at every price point Learn more about how Provi simplifies the complex process of ordering and promoting wholesale alcohol between buyers SevenFifty Daily is an award-winning online magazine about the business and culture of the beverage alcohol industry covering all three tiers of the alcohol industry but the valley still retains its charm to present day with numerous activities to entertain even us peasant folk as well as the King Louis of today’s world The storied wine region boasts world-class wineries (including an ever-growing contingent of natural wine-focused producers), fantastic French food, incredible places to stay, a world-famous cycle route, and fanciful views at every turn. And it’s just an hour and a half TGV train ride from Paris From wining and dining to cycling to nerding out on history here are the best things to do in the Loire Valley an 1895 brasserie with a stunning art nouveau interior The chefs here run through other classics that highlight local ingredients one of the five Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC) goat cheese variations (Also make sure to try cheese plates wherever you eat.) Again, like everywhere else in France, local produce is revered all over Loire Valley, which has also earned the nickname “The Garden of France.” This is due not only to the abundance of vineyards, but also thanks to its actual gardens, orchards, and ample agricultural land. One standout destination to get a taste of the local produce is Restaurant le Jardiniers where chefs serve prix fixe menus with ingredients from their own garden inside a repurposed train station in Ligré right near the town and (of course) Chateau of Chinon Trips start at Gennes-Val-de-Loire (between Angers and Saumur) and float over the chateaux of Saumur and others before landing back at different points along the river depending on which direction the wind is blowing Loire Vins AventureStay in one-of-kind hotels and AirbnbsThe Loire Valley offers plenty of castles that have been converted into high-end hotels; however it also boasts other unique accommodations that would merit a trip on their own Hotel Le Gaimont is a family-run estate part of which is carved directly into the tufa stone that abuts the maison (i.e The husband-and-wife team that run it are warm and welcoming offering guests a solid breakfast spread and possibly a mezcal nitecap to those who want to hang out in the well-designed living room Retiveau, the winemaker who offers wine-tasting river cruises on his traditional shallow-bottomed Gabare boats, offers a different kind of stay. The owner rents out both of his vessels for overnight stays on the edge of the river with prime views of Candes and Montsoreau villages and their castle Best in Travel is here! Discover 2025’s destinations The 30 best countries, cities and regions to visit in 2025 Plan your trip with Elsewhere, by Lonely Planet See where a Lonely Planet Membership takes you Subscribe to our weekly newsletters to get the latest travel news, expert advice, and insider recommendations Explore the world with our detailed, insightful guidebooks Stay ahead of the curve with our guidebooks Uncover exciting new ways to explore iconic destinations Every month, we release new books into the wild Search Search Close search menu Explore Best in Travel 2024 Africa Close menu Countries Antarctica Antarctica Close menu Regions Asia Asia Close menu Countries Australia & the Pacific Australia & the Pacific Close menu Countries The Caribbean The Caribbean Close menu Countries Central America Central America Close menu Countries Europe Europe Close menu Countries Middle East Middle East Close menu Countries North America North America Close menu Countries South America South America Close menu Countries The Loire Valley by car: a match made in heaven Shutterstock/leoks The scenery in the Loire Valley changes around every curve Honey-colored villages give way to lavish castles. Vine-draped fields back onto the lush banks of the Loire, France’s longest river And although trains serve each of the region's main destinations It gives you better access to the area’s blissful natural surroundings Here are the five best road trips in the Loire Valley Combining emblematic wines with picturesque landscapes this road trip passes white tufa (limestone) villages overhanging the Loire and vineyards rolling out as far as the eye can see a medieval city with half-timbered houses and dominating royal fortress The red grape vines that fill the surrounding landscape are used to produce Chinon wine Stop en route at Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud, once Europe’s biggest monastic city, before staying overnight in Saumur and enjoying some winetasting. The troglodyte cellars of Bouvet-Ladubay and Ackerman both serve excellent Crémant (a sparkling white wine) go deeper into the countryside to reach Rablay-sur-Layon village With its half-timbered houses and stone mansions the contemporary arts and crafts gallery says otherwise The residents here have dubbed this a 'village of artists'with permanent artisan boutiques and rotating exhibitions head towards Chalonnes to drive through vineyards during the golden hour On day three, head to the hills between Chalonnes and Bouchemaine. Appreciate the river's proximity to sail on a toue (a traditional wooden boat) in La Possonnière. Then head to Savennières which is home to its namesake renowned white wine. Lunch at Le Chenin where the chef’s cuisine celebrates local produce and its cellar illustrates the variety of the terroir and enjoy a quiet evening on the banks of the river Detour: Aubance Valley is home to the seven-story Château de Brissac The property also holds its own vineyard and produces fine rosé wines Tours-Montsoreau; 78 km (49 miles); 2 days Its castle was used as the setting for The Lady of Montsoreau by Alexandre Dumas there are some great views of the rushing Loire River below Detour: If you have an extra day, drive two hours to Nantes, the home city of the author Jules Verne. Les Machines de l’île acts as something of a homage to Verne’s fantastic Tours-Saint Florent le Vieil; 170km (105 miles); 3 days This road trip offers a deep connection with nature. It starts in Tours and then takes the D16 to Ussé, where the Loire passes before your very eyes. Stop in Ussé, whose otherworldly castle was the inspiration for Charles Perrault’s Sleeping Beauty the village at the confluence of the Vienne and the Loire the white stone houses of the former fishing port turn gold follow the curves of the Loire along the D952 as far as Bouchemaine Stretch your legs on the trail connecting Quai de Noé and the former bargees' village of La Pointe get back in your car and climb the hills between Rochefort-sur-Loire and Chalonnes-sur-Loire on the D751 Follow the brown road signs that indicate La Corniche Angevine there are panoramic vistas for far as your eyes can see take a short detour to drive the 14-kilometer-long island of Chalonnes one of the few Loire islands you can explore via cat Leave via the D210 and the René-Trottier bridge to see views of small villages stand out against the lush greenery and white sandbars bordering You’re heading to your last stop Saint-Florent-le-Vieil an oasis of narrow streets with vine-covered houses head to Mont-Glonne esplanade for one last breathtaking panorama from the abbey that stands proudly above the Loire Detour: Consider stopping in Bouchemaine to take a canoe trip down the Loire in Bouchemaine for a moment of disconnection on the river. You can hire one at the Nautical base, quai de la Noé From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance period and the nobility established their courts in the Loire Valley leaving thousands of monuments as their legacy but this drive takes you to the most exemplary examples First up, Château Royal de Blois This imposing castle is impossible to miss Each facade carries a different era: medieval Don’t miss the sound and light performance that lights each one at night from April to September On day two, head to Chambord An aura of delicateness emanates from its finely carved detail and dazzling whiteness Leonardo da Vinci's double spiral staircase will make your head spin Spend day three discovering Amboise. Alleys edged by half-timbered houses lead to the impressive castle The guards’ walkway offers the best viewpoint on the Loire you may find the secret gallery François I used to pay his visits to Leonardo da Vinci at the Clos Lucé This is where Joan of Arc met Charles VII during the Hundred Years' War The trip gives travelers the perfect chance to taste all the local specialties of the Loire Valley too rillauds (pork belly cooked in lard) near Angers There are plenty of opportunities to stop at castles like Chenonceau or Azay-le-Rideau while remaining on the main roads. Drive from Blois to Angers via the D952 Then avoid the motorway to Nantes and follow the D751 instead The beautiful countryside is punctuated by plenty of charming villages Detour: South of Chinon, check out Château de la Mothe Chandeniers. After losing its roof in a fire, the castle was neglected for years with vegetation allowed to grow inside. However, renovations since 2018 have brought it back to life. You don't have permission to access the page you requested What is this page?The website you are visiting is protected.For security reasons this page cannot be displayed Travel time from Paris Montparnasse: 1 hour 10 minutes The region is also home to more than a thousand vineyards offering endless vintages to try Luxe: Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé    Luxe for less: Relais de Chambord Travel time from Paris Gare de Lyon: 2 hours 40 minutes With an early start from St Pancras – and transferring across Paris from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de Lyon – you can be in Provence by early afternoon. The honey-coloured walled city of Avignon was the capital of Christianity in the 14th century and is best known for its magnificent Palais des Papes the largest Gothic palace in Europe – as well as the stone bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet which features in the famous song ‘Sur Le Pont D’Avignon’ It’s also the perfect place to base yourself for explorations of the stunning Provençal countryside with its sunflower fields and rolling hills of lavender Luxe: La Divine Comédie     Luxe for less: Cloître Saint Louis Travel time from Paris Montparnasse: 2 hours 5 minutes Thanks to a high-speed train from Paris Montparnasse to Bordeaux you can leave London in the early morning and be in Bordeaux for a late lunch there’s a lot more to discover in and around this city than just wine Within the world’s largest urban Unesco World Heritage site you’ll find wide boulevards flanked by 18th-century buildings Rue Sainte-Catherine is the longest shopping street in France with plenty of cafés and restaurants to stop at and refuel The city’s surrounding vineyards take up 120,000 hectares so you’ve got choices – one of the best ways to see them is to take a wine cruise along the river Garonne fortified hilltop town of St Emilion to the east of the city and the Médoc region north of the city Luxe: Les Sources de Caudalie Luxe for less: Le Boutique Hôtel Bordeaux Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 5 minutes Luxe: Hotel Van Cleef Luxe for less: Maison Le Dragon and the permanent collection includes a number of his and his contemporaries’ works.  Luxe for less: Hotel Franq the tallest church tower in the Netherlands – on a clear day you can see all the way to Amsterdam Luxe for less: Hotel Beijers Luxe for less: Hotel Arsenaal Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 50 minutes Schildergasse is the place for high-street brands or head to the boutiques of Ehrenstrasse. And of course Original Eau de Cologne 4711 is one of the world’s oldest fragrance brands – head to 4711 Glockengasse now a perfume shop and museum where the cologne was produced since 1799 There are several excellent restaurants along the waterside of Am Frankenturm Luxe: Excelsior Hotel Ernst Luxe for less: Hotel Wasserturm Travel time from Brussels: 1 hour 15 minutes  Luxe for less: Parkhotel Quellenhof Travel time from Paris Gare de Lyon: 4 hours 5 minutes  Geneva is the biggest city in French-speaking Switzerland It is sometimes labelled bland and lacking in culture but as a diplomatic centre and home of the United Nations headquarters it is unique and truly global – for instance within the space of a few minutes you’ll hear several languages spoken It’s a beautiful city with a great vibe and the scenery is special – picture the lake and its landmark water fountain with the snow-covered Alps and Jura mountains in the background Geneva is the perfect base to explore this corner of Switzerland as well as neighbouring Savoie in France Vevey and Montreux are all short day trips away Luxe: The Woodward Luxe for less: Hotel Eastwest While the below travel times might look long compared to a flight remember you’ll arrive in the centre of the cities For further details, visit Eurostar.com DISCLAIMER: We endeavour to always credit the correct original source of every image we use. If you think a credit may be incorrect, please contact us at info@sheerluxe.com (You will be redirected to the right platform once logged in) Forgotten login? Request a new password The Val de Loire World Heritage cultural landscape (France) is organizing a one-day workshop on Economy to be held 12th  December 2013 in Tours  The workshop will focus mainly on policies and politics environmental and cultural current and future returns on investments in the economic landscape and heritage spheres. Discussions will be led on the economic value of heritage and landscape and identifying indicators and analyzing the impacts in terms of employment and incomes. One of the outcome of the workshop will be to further explore the topicin the field and conduct a case study in the Val de Loire inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 2000 This workshop is open to regional heritage development and environment professionals and stakeholders For more information, and to register, contact Chloé Campo de Montauzon (chloe.campo@assofrance-patrimoinemondial.org) The cultural landscape of the Loire Valley (France) has launched a new promotion and interpretation tool: a geo localized application for Smartphones on the landscape of the Loire valley: "The Loire valley: view from the train “ This application is a Mission Val de Loire’s initiative with the Centre and Pays de la Loire regions’ in partnership with France’s national railways The landscape of the Loire Valley is almost entirely covered by the Nantes-Orleans railway line “View from the Train” will offer all travelers a unique insight into the landscapes nature and culture seen from some of the Loire Valley’s main rail routes with one simple action The guide covers a wide range of topics as well as describing interesting stories on the Loire valley’s history The first version of the guide is intended for users of the Tours-Saumur railway line The application provides "audio" geo referenced content and alerts as they approach the 27 landmarks in order to offer travelers the opportunity to better understand the cultural landscape Additional multimedia information is also available The application includes tourist information and how to plan a visit (Loire by bike local and tourist information) from stations covered along the line the application works as a guided tour but it can also be used as a free tour off of the train “The Loire Valley: view from the train” is free available on the App Store (iPhone) and Google Play (Android) Find more information in the press kit  " Loire Valley: view from the train " and the Loire Valley website Founded in 2002, two years after the inscription of the cultural landscape of the Loire Valley to the World Heritage List, the Mission Val de Loire is an inter-regional management body run by the Centre and Pays de la Loire regions’ Its role is to contribute to the understanding of heritage and landscapes of the Loire Valley in the promotion and development of its territories’ "Chanel and the JY BH Group confirm that they have agreed to merge with Chanel acquiring the four workshops and all its activities," says the group which is also taking over all the employees "This decision was motivated by converging interests: the JY BH Group is relying on a solid partner that provides it with long-term visibility while Chanel is helping to preserve exceptional expertise in the heart of France," adds Chanel Jean-Yves Bohère worked as a factory and production manager for various brands before founding his company JY BH in 1999 through the acquisition of Marque & Mod a workshop specialising in flou and grand flou in women's fashion specialising in tailoring and sleeved garments which became the group's main business with sales of €4 million The press reports that Jean-Yves Bohère will remain at the helm "for another year" From rolling vineyards and plunging canyons to towering sand dunes and majestic villages we share the most breathtaking places to visit in France There’s a reason why France is the most visited country on the planet. Not only does it boast some of the most exquisite wines and cuisine in the world but also some of the most beautiful destinations wherever you travel within l’Hexagone there are countless scenes that will take your breath away there is more than enough to satisfy curious travelers choosing which places to visit in France can feel overwhelming here are our favorite picks to inspire your travel bucket list a roundup of the best places to visit in France wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the birthplace of bubbly Located in the northeast of France, just a 1.5 hour’s drive from Paris the Champagne region is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves to sip on bubbles Just watching the sun set over the idyllic rolling vineyards and dreamy landscape is reason enough to visit the region That said, those who do wish to sample the fruits of the land can embark on a tour of one of the prestigious Champagne houses And this is sure to make for an unforgettable experience – or perhaps not if they choose to overindulge are among the famous houses that open their gates to the public The latter is perhaps best known for its namesake; a Benedictine monk who was an important quality pioneer for Champagne wine Contrary to popular belief, however, Dom Pérignon did not invent the famous wine itself. This is just one of many facts you will learn while visiting his cellar and final resting place in the Abbey of Hautvillers the seemingly endless ocean of lavender fields makes Provence one of the most beautiful – not to mention The heavenly-scented crop can be found almost everywhere in the region during this time. That said, some of the most scenic spots to enjoy it include the Valensole Plateau, the Sault Plateau For the ultimate postcard shot, though, nothing beats the flower fields surrounding the Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey Nestled in the tranquil countryside near the village of Gordes the stunning 12th-century church is shrouded in a sea of purple every June and July Along with the local honeybees, these beautiful lavender fields are lovingly tended by the monks who live in the abbey. In fact, visitors can even stay with them and enjoy a serene spiritual retreat the fields are open from 09:30 during the summertime; and 13:00 on Sundays Just bear in mind that the unique beauty of the location means that it becomes extremely busy during this time make sure you arrive early and join the first tour of the day at 10:30 If a trip to the Grand Canyon in Arizona feels like too much of a stretch then you could always settle for its French counterpart Nestled in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France, the 700-meter-deep Gorges du Verdon is a truly breathtaking sight to behold Carved by the Verdon River, the plunging limestone canyon is the largest in Europe. It is also a hotspot for adrenaline-fueled activities and watersports Cruising along the 25-kilometer-long stretch of mesmerizing turquoise waters that flow into the artificial Lac de Sainte-Croix is a truly unforgettable experience might prefer to brave white-water rafting along the rapids A more relaxing day can be spent hiking around the 100-kilometer rim of the canyon or hopping on horseback and weaving your way through the vertical limestone cliffs this is one of the most breathtaking places to visit in France France is home to many beautiful villages. However, few are as enchanting and otherworldly as Mont Saint-Michel with its majestic abbey Perched high on the rocky island of Mont Saint-Michel the striking medieval monastery looks like something lifted straight from the pages of a children’s fairytale This is made all the more magic by the narrow, winding streets and pretty timbered-framed houses that lead up to it. In fact, the magnificent setting actually inspired Rapunzel’s Tower and the Kingdom of Corona in Disney’s Tangled movie The majestic island village once served as a great Christian pilgrim site back in the 8th century. Today, however, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts more than three million tourists a year it remains one of the most popular places to visit in France the vast ocean and sandbank that surround the island certainly make it seem less inviting And the fact that it becomes completely secluded when the tides are very high adds even more to its mystery most travelers today can reach the island by crossing a 2,500-foot-long bridge they can traverse the treacherous mudflats when the ocean recedes during low tide Nature lovers will no doubt enjoy lapping up the breathtaking 360-degree views from the top of the Dune du Pilat; the tallest sand dune in Europe Located in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay area the magnificent natural wonder is one of the most iconic places to visit in France more than one million people come to climb the 154 wooden steps to the top and walk along the 2.7-kilometer-long ridge And with the sparkling Atlantic Ocean on one side and deep green pine forests on the other the towering dune offers some of the most beautiful natural views in Europe Dune du Pilat is also a hotspot for paragliders and other outdoor sports enthusiasts. The five nearby campsites If you fancy cooling down after your victorious ascent, Corniche Beach provides a refreshing spot to enjoy a dip This lies at the foot of the dune and is easily accessible through the main entrance If you’re seeking the decadent life – or at least looking to dabble your toes in it – then a visit to Saint-Tropez is definitely in order This beautiful sun-drenched coastal resort on the French Riviera is – after all – renowned for its designer boutiques and immaculate sandy beaches; not to mention yacht-hopping celebrities Originally a sleepy fishing village on the Côte d’Azur, the small town became a land of luxury in the late 19th century; thanks to Impressionist painter Paul Signac and other great artists like Henri Matisse and Albert Marquet It wasn’t until Hollywood bombshell Brigette Bardot strutted onto the scene in the 1950s that Saint-Tropez gained international fame Et Dieu Créa la Femme (And God Created Woman) Despite its reputation as being a playground for the wealthy the town still manages to retain its original charm; especially if you visit out of the high season older locals still play boules in the Place des Lices sip on café au lait along the picturesque harbor There’s a reason why the enchanting hilltop village of Rocamadour is the second most visited attraction in France Perched high on the side of a limestone cliff overlooking the Alzou Canyon in the Dordogne region the sacred village is nothing less than majestic The medieval town was once an important pilgrimage site and famous for its sanctuaries It is also home to a 15th-century statue of the Black Madonna which stands within the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Rocamadour along with seven other religious buildings after climbing the 216 steps (Le Grand Escalier) to the square at the top these were once climbed by pilgrims on their knees and the wild and unspoiled landscape down below are second to none If you have time, you can also hop on a boat ride in the nearby Gouffre de Padirac Gigantic rock formations, underground pools, and huge stalactites and stalagmites bring this extraordinary underground network of caves to life Often referred to as the ‘garden of France’, the Loire Valley was once the stomping ground of French royalty and nobility it is one of the most iconic places to visit in France and open to all This is owing to its 300 elaborate chateaux some of which date back as far as the 9th century Unsurprisingly, many of these have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites And while all of them are beautifully maintained and come with their own story With its stunning French architecture and surrounding deer-filled park, Château of Chambord is considered to be one of the most beautiful in the valley The Château de Chenonceau is revered for its unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture which hovers over the Cher River And the fairytale-like Château de Sully-sur-Loire which has played host to several famous historical figures including Joan of Arc and Louis XIV The most beautiful French castles in the Loire Valley Of course, with so many beautiful chateaux to explore, you might want to mix things up by visiting one of the numerous vineyards throughout the region After all, the valley is famous for its world-class wines; with many local winemakers inviting the public to tour their cellars and sample their creations Nestled in the heart of central France, the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park is the largest volcanic ensemble in Europe and a relic of the prehistoric age Covering 395,000 hectares of land, the park is home to four volcanic massifs. Reaching an altitude of 1,465 meters, the Puy de Dôme is the highest volcano in the region Visitors from all over the world come to admire these sleeping giants which have laid dormant for thousands of years The ancient volcanoes are also home to natural hot springs and mineral waters, making them a popular thermal spa destination Aside from this, there are many medieval towns and castle ruins to explore in the region; making this a great option for a relaxing getaway in France Step onto the beautiful Mediterranean island of Corsica and you might soon forget which country you are in. After all, its unique location between France and Italy means that it embraces the best of both cultures The famous birthplace of Napoleon certainly lives up to its nickname – the Island of Beauty – too and pristine forests give it a beautiful yet wild appeal With 1,000 kilometers of heavenly turquoise coastline to explore, it is also a hotspot for snorkeling and scuba diving can do so on one of the island’s many pristine beaches Despite its international appeal, the picturesque island of Corsica has managed to retain its own culture and charm. You might be lucky enough to catch some of this while listening to a traditional polyphonic song or at a village festival or religious procession And don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a donkey or two while hiking in the countryside. The island is home to an abundance of free-roaming wildlife including pigs The Loire Valley might not get the attention that other French regions do but it stands out for its range of exciting wines Halliday reviewer Jane Faulkner shares some of her favourites here Under the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 it is an offence Hardie Grant acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the country on which we work the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation and the Gadigal people of the Eora nation and recognises their continuing connection to the land As part of the Faculty’s first-ever French exchange program with l’Université d’Orléans four Education students have travelled to Orléans to teach English and French classes at local elementary schools The students have been sending us blog posts to share their experiences which aims to give the U of M and Orléans students the experience to share languages and cultures as well as to promote a joint research project between the two countries’ faculties of Education Chelsea and Nicole are taking it all in during their first week in France have arrived to the wonderful city of Orleans which is located about an hour away from Paris on the Loire Valley It is known for its big Cathedral Saint-Croix and Joan of Arc we can find ancient castles along the Loire river We spent two days at the university learning about the education system in France and are now starting to think about what really interests us for our research We are all looking forward to diving into the schools come Monday Just walking passed students on the street and listening to them speak French was already exciting with a variety of flowers and lush greenery surrounding us It has been a nice change from Winnipeg’s weather Nicole luckily just received her baggage after a week of it deciding to travel other places such as Every street corner we turn seems to be filled with stories This week was also the celebration of Joan of Arc so we had the opportunity to join the festivities which included a light show on the cathedral and a beautiful orchestra concert that was performed in the cathedral we are heading out to live with our families for the next three weeks We will be observing and teaching every day except Wednesdays We are also looking forward to Professor Baranowski’s arrival in just over a week it has been a great success…how could it not be when you are in a beautiful country I have been in France for the past three weeks and it is magnificent The architecture that surrounds you as you’re walking down Champs-Elysees and the history that encompasses France is brilliant Everything is so old and beautiful at the same time Ecole Louis Guilloux where Brittany is teaching I have been in an elementary school called There are only nine teachers and a director To enter the school you have to go through these grand stone doors There are five different buildings that surround the courtyard one is the drama room and the other is the director’s office and the staff room/washrooms There are 25 students that are 9 and 10 years old and always so eager to learn It has been such a great experience so far presenting Canada and Manitoba to the students as well as teaching them some English I cannot say enough wonderful things about Orléans where I am doing my practicum; it is such a quaint town I am living in the heart of Orléans and just a few blocks away is the Loire Each time I go out exploring I find new historical places and boutiques this was the town of Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) in which many monuments are dedicated Each day I am learning something new and I can’t get enough One of the beautiful castles the students have been visiting We took advantage of these two days out of the schools by visiting Chateau de Sully-sur-Loire on the Monday with our French professor Krystyna Baranowski from the University of Manitoba Valerie Zanelli who is our coordinator here and one of the teachers that I work with at the high school I am in once a week Orléans and UofM practicum students with professor Krystyna Baranowski at the top of Chateau de Amboise overlooking the city of Amboise in the background The Wednesday for our cultural outing we went the city of Amboise where we visited Chateau Clos de Lucé which is famous because it was the residence of Leonardo DaVinci for several years in the 1500’s Later that afternoon we visited the Chateau de Amboise I am excited for when I become a teacher and will be able to share all this cultural and historical knowledge that goes alone with these famous French castles They are so intricate and have such fascinating stories that go along with every part of the castles Other than our outings we were in the schools three days this week I am learning so much about the French education system and gaining further practicum experience in both teaching English and French I am also enjoying a few French pastries here and there End of France alternative practicum… but we have taken advantage of as many opportunities as possible to participate in the classrooms and learn about the school system and culture of France while seeing as many of the sights as possible we said goodbye to our classes and had the opportunity to visit all three schools since each one has a very different demographic We have learned about the challenges French schools face as well as the many successes that they have and we have been able to compare second language teaching in France to that of Manitoba As we go our separate ways we take with us an expanded worldview and an appreciation for a language and culture that is vibrant all over the world We hope to pass it on with renewed passion to our students back home The number of Indigenous candidates on the ballot has dipped from the 2021 campaign which saw a record number of First Nations staff and faculty were recognized with 2025 UM Sustainability Awards Early in his second term as president of the United States Donald Trump began making explicit threats about Canada becoming the 51st American state , , View All Stories A review of town twinning schemes after Covid… and Brexit Over the past year or so, WCV has published articles which demonstrate clearly the degree to which Brexit is having a negative impact on educational and cultural contacts between the UK and the EU… It’s almost as if this is a conscious policy of this government The one area left to explore was town twinning and my research over recent weeks has confirmed this impression.What follows examines how twinning schemes are emerging from the enforced hibernation imposed by the coronavirus pandemic… and how Brexit is affecting their rebirth I remember the excitement at the steps being taken in the 1960s to ‘twin’ my home town with its French and German counterparts and never returned to live there other than during the holidays so I never became involved in the twinning schemes It was not until many years later when I started working with my friend and co-author that town twinning sparked my interest: Phil was a leading light in the scheme twinning Bradford on Avon with Sully-sur-Loire What was abundantly clear was the degree of involvement and commitment of citizens at both ends of the twinning scheme educational – and even economic – benefits which flowed from such a healthy twinning scheme More about the Bradford on Avon angle and other schemes later but let’s start with views from two French participants – as expressed by one of their organisers and by an enthusiastic young person on the benefits the experience has brought her “The twinning between Sully and Bradford on Avon originated as a school exchange which was then extended to the pupils’ families For quite a while it was restricted to a limited number of families and it only started to develop when both towns accepted they should make the existing twinning official People from all walks of life then started to ‘exchange’: groups of singers A playwright from Bradford came to Sully and one of his plays was performed half in French and half in English Groups of walkers from Sully started to exchange with ‘ramblers’ from Bradford We had cultural weekends on both sides; we did two long walks from Sully to Bradford and vice-versa which also involved twinnings and councils of villages that welcomed us along the way and the Sully twinning group opened an English course with as many as 40 students Not only did adults start travelling to and fro but they also ‘exchanged’ children for holidays or sent their youngsters to the other country to be au pairs who would never have dreamt of going to Britain before they met their ‘partner’ in Sully There was even a marriage between an English member of the twinning group and a French one and the twinning with Bradford was the opportunity for many people to ‘open up’ to a foreign country and culture I believe twinning members were rather disappointed when the Brexit vote and subsequent negotiations came about “Writing about the twinning is a real pleasure because I had such a great experience with it I probably won’t be very objective but I am certain that everyone could benefit from such experience I have been a fan of English since primary school so my parents decided to join the twinning between Bradford on Avon and Sully-sur-Loire We met our English friends for the first time in France We got along well with them very quickly – so well that I crossed the Channel the year after I was received by two families who were involved in the twinning Living with them and talking English all day long was the dream for me I also had the opportunity to accompany one of my English friends at her university in Southampton I was very happy to discover her daily life at school and to meet her friends I am very much looking forward to seeing them again – the pandemic unfortunately stopped the annual tradition of hosting I owe all these great memories to the twinning It is very important to keep such links (while politicians try to destroy them – I am very mad at Bojo) we do not have much access to cultural or linguistic activities We have to remain open to the world instead of locking ourselves up I hope French people will remember this on election day this Sunday… Macron’s victory was the best possible outcome.] The twinning also creates links between inhabitants of Sully-sur-Loire The associative world is the key to local solidarity That is also why my mother agreed to become the new president of our twinning association in Sully-sur-Loire (a Spanish teacher at the head of an English-French twinning… I would never have imagined it!) it takes time in our strict daily schedule but it is very important to keep this association in good shape To put all this in a nutshell I would say… Join a twinning association!” Bradford on Avon: twinned with Sully-sur-Loire “Bradford on Avon and Sully-sur-Loire have been twin towns for over 25 years Twinning exists to promote and foster friendship and understanding between the two towns with visits on alternating years to each town and social events throughout the year in Bradford on Avon a wonderful way to make new friends both in Sully and in Bradford and to get a personal view of life across the Channel.” Thus begins the web page of the Bradford on Avon French Twinning Association I learned a lot about this scheme from my friend Phil Turk It was a major part of Phil’s life and that of his wife Brenda; twinning contacts provided them with lifelong friends and Phil with a co-author of French schoolbooks the former chair of the Twinning Association She described how successful the twinning had been with both German and French twinning having very strong groups and many reciprocal visits That was until the pandemic prevented local meetings – never mind visits to France In spite of this difficulty and others to be mentioned later at the time of writing they are still looking for ways to resurrect and continue the twinning in Bradford on Avon and the English group has been invited to Sully-sur-Loire next year This is well worth looking at to see how contacts have been maintained and how they have addressed topics such as: ‘The Irish Border Issue’ and ‘Relations between Great Britain and the EU post-Brexit’ Progress with linking with Lille and Brno has been slow; funding issues and other ‘political’ considerations have not helped Leeds has been refocusing on partnerships with local European groups for example the French school in Headingley Exeter’s town twinning is typical of a long-established scheme: being twinned with Rennes in France since 1956, Bad Homburg in Germany since 1965, and Terracina in Italy since 1988. John, the chair of Exeter Twinning Circle says that the scheme was in good form before Brexit and Covid: the 80 or so members of the Exeter Twinning Circle held regular events in Exeter and regular inward and outward visits with groups of between 15 and 20 participants Exeter’s twinning links are well-publicised on the entry signs to the city and each of the twin towns has a place or a street in Exeter named after it contacts were maintained by email and occasional zoom meetings it seems that nothing much is happening about town twinning in my home town It had a very healthy link for many years with Vire in Calvados When I contacted someone involved in the scheme it transpired that the deaths of key people at both ends of the twinning were holding back attempts to get it going again One of those people had in fact been a key member of the Totnes twinning group who went to live in Vire and tragically died there a few months ago In the past twinning visits often involved a Totnes-Vire boules match in the River Dart where it passes through Totnes At least this name is a permanent reminder of the town twinning scheme Covid has had a more long-lasting impact than the two year “freeze” it imposed on twinning activities People have got out of the habit of participating and voluntary organisations have lost momentum Many people are still cautious about travelling away from home Age profile is a major issue; one twinning member said: “Our members are mostly in their 70s and 80s”: it remains to be seen whether older people will be willing to host visitors or to travel to the host town having people to stay with them for several days is increasingly challenging younger members to take over in due course The usual twinning model of staying in families’ homes does not appeal to younger people who travel more and are used to readily available accommodation Safeguarding of schoolchildren is a major reason for the loss of cultural exchanges between schools and many have given these visits up due to the extreme difficulties of satisfying safety requirements The teaching of languages in schools is decreasing too As Alison says: “There is now much less emphasis on learning foreign languages in school which is embarrassing for us as a country!” the xenophobia generated by certain politicians to achieve Brexit has created a negative attitude to language learning Funding is crucial.Twinning exists between town councils not just twinning groups; twinning charters are council documents: the actual twinning is between the councils of the towns and cities involved Bradford on Avon Town Council has been supportive recognising the importance of tourism to their community the main problem introduced by Brexit has been loss of EU funding City councils have been unable to continue to provide anything like the amount of funding that existed previously; UK town councils have never been able to provide much funding for twinning – much less than is available to French groups from their town councils Alison insists that “Twinning was a great idea and fostered valuable friendships between European countries” but she adds: “Brexit is a nightmare which should never have happened and we see the dreadful results of it everywhere.” Town twinning is intended to foster harmony and mutual understanding but I must mention the impact on a twinning association of the tragic invasion of Ukraine Exeter City Council voted on 10 March 2022 to suspend the Exeter Civic Link with the Russian city of Yaroslavl but avoiding overtly political topics and discussion from either side. To quote from the statement accompanying the announcement of Exeter’s decision: “The Ukraine situation is desperate Many Russian people are opposed to the war and some have even expressed this on social media It requires a degree of courage to express openly a contrary political opinion in Russia.” So Exeter decided to continue dialogue with “our friends in Yaroslavl It seems to me that this statement crystallises the whole point of town twinning and all other types of educational and cultural links The main benefit of twinning has been long-lasting individual friendships and seeing that under the surface people are all the same people wherever they live There’s truly more that unites than divides us we all need opportunities to engage with our peers in other countries and compensate for the negative effects of Brexit FC Nantes will play big this Tuesday against PSG First of all because four days before the end the Canaries are still only three points ahead of the current barragist But Antoine Kombouaré's men will also be keen to save the legendary invincibility record held by the Loire club While Nantes is preparing to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the 32 unbeaten matches chained by the Nicolas Ouédec still undefeated after 29 games this season is therefore not only three games to join the Nantes in the Legend PSG keeps a particularly bitter memory of this dream season delivered by FC Nantes in 1995 In particular due to the 3-0 slap received at the Parc des Princes in January Jean-Claude Suaudeau's men had given a real lesson to the capital's club scoring thanks to Patrice Loko one of the most legendary goals in the history of the championship Upon receipt of a touch quickly played by Benoit Cauet Patrice Loko chest control and addresses a balloon in the air at Reynald Pedros who puts him in the race in a touch of the ball The native of Sully-sur-Loire completes the action by taking up the volley “It perfectly summed up football in the Nantes that we practiced at that time It goes so fast in the match that I don't really realize it It was when I saw it on TV that I understood the thing Now we remember me in relation to this goal ” had remembered the Nantes striker for So Foot on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of his unforgettable masterpiece “The most difficult gesture is that of Pat ' it is the most complicated gesture “ it's super hard: you're in the race you wedged an exterior like that and then Reynald “” This goal symbolizes total football Underlined last summer with Ouest France Eddy Capron it did not seem extraordinary to me because goals like this It was a maximum risk taking and when you scored Manu Tournoux your premier destination for all things related to French football in the English language We are a passionate group of British football enthusiasts who have embraced the beauty and excitement of French football Read more...