3-day Private Loire Castles Trip 2 Wine tastings by Mercedes

If you’re dreaming of wandering through fairy-tale castles and tasting some of France’s finest wines, this 3-day private Loire castles trip by Clewel Travel could be just what you need. It’s a well-structured journey that balances sightseeing, wine tasting, and relaxing in a charming 4-star château hotel.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized—tickets, transport, and even hotel pick-up are included. Plus, the guide’s knowledge shines through, making each stop more engaging. Our favorite parts? Definitely the visits to the iconic Château de Chambord and Chenonceau, along with the chance to sample local wines at cozy family wineries.

That said, it’s not a tour for everyone. The long days and bus rides might be tiring, especially if you’re not used to early mornings or lots of walking. And, since it’s a group experience, expect some shared time with fellow travelers rather than complete solitude.

This trip suits those who love history, architecture, wine, and a bit of leisurely indulgence—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone craving a taste of the Loire’s most celebrated spots without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Access: Visit 7 top Loire castles with tickets included, experiencing highlights like Château Chambord and Chenonceau.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides make history come alive, sharing stories and background during each tour.
• Wine & Food: Includes 2 wine tastings at local family-run wineries, offering a genuine taste of the region’s wine culture.
• Comfort & Convenience: Stay in a 4-star château hotel with breakfast, and enjoy private transportation in a Mercedes.
• Well-Structured Itinerary: Balanced mix of castle visits, meals, and leisure that keeps the days engaging but not overly hectic.
• Suitable for Lovers of History & Wine: Ideal for those interested in France’s architectural wonders and local vintages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: The Journey Begins with Château de Chambord & Blois

Your adventure kicks off early with a 7:30 am hotel pick-up, setting the tone for a day filled with jaw-dropping architecture and fascinating stories. The drive to the Château de Chambord takes about two and a half hours, giving you time to settle into the relaxed pace of the trip.

Chambord is probably the most famous castle in the Loire Valley, renowned for its distinctive Renaissance design, sprawling grounds, and impressive size. We loved the way the guide pointed out architectural details and historical tidbits, making each room’s story more vivid.

Afterward, you’ll head to Blois, a charming town where you can enjoy a good lunch and soak up the local ambiance. The Château Blois served as a residence for French Kings and has an intriguing history, including Joan of Arc’s visit in 1429. The guided tour here makes the experience more meaningful, highlighting the castle’s diverse architectural styles and royal connections.

Day 1: Wine Tasting at a Family Winery

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to wine. Visiting the Plou et Fils winery offers a more personal glimpse into local wine-making traditions. Expect to taste a minimum of 7 different wines, including reds, rosés, and whites—an excellent way to understand regional varieties and quality. The tasting is hosted by the family, adding a warm, authentic touch.

Day 2: The Iconic Château de Chenonceau & Amboise

The second day is packed with highlights. You’ll visit Chenonceau, often called the “Ladies’ Castle” for its history linked to powerful women. The skip-the-line entry ensures you spend more time exploring and less waiting, while a guide shares stories about the women who shaped its history.

Next, you’ll move on to Amboise, a lively town with a regal past. The Château Royal d’Amboise is grand and features a digital “Histopad” that explains each room’s history—ideal if you enjoy immersive storytelling. The nearby Clos Lusse castle, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last years, offers a chance to see his work and the grounds he loved.

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Day 3: Gardens, Villandry, and Final Wine Tasting

The last day begins with a visit to Villandry, famous for its vegetable gardens. We loved walking through its intricate, colorful layouts—it’s a peaceful spot that feels like a living work of art.

Following that, more wine awaits at a local winery, where you’ll tour the caves and sample regional vintages. The final castle on your list is Château de Chaumont, built in the 10th century and rebuilt in the 15th, offering a look into medieval and Renaissance architecture.

The trip wraps up with the 3-hour ride back to Paris, arriving around 8:30 pm. The entire schedule is designed to let you absorb the sights while maintaining a comfortable pace.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided approach is a real strength. The guides aren’t just narrators—they add context, stories, and insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and personable the guides are, making even the most popular sites feel fresh and interesting.

The wine tastings are another highlight, especially for those who enjoy discovering new wines. Visiting local family-run wineries offers a authentic taste of the region that larger commercial tours sometimes miss. The wines featured are varied, with a good selection of reds, whites, and rosés, paired with explanations that help you appreciate each one.

Accommodations in a château hotel are also a big plus. Staying in a 4-star setting gives the trip a special touch of luxury and comfort, making the evenings a relaxing retreat after busy days.

However, the tour isn’t without its considerations. The long drives—around 2.5 hours each way on the first day, and similar distances on subsequent days—mean you should be comfortable with bus travel. The schedule can be quite packed, with minimal free time at some sites, so this isn’t ideal if you prefer slow, unstructured exploration.

Another point is that the tour isn’t suited for children under 6 or those with mobility challenges, as it involves some walking and stairs. Plus, alcohol is not allowed in the vehicle, so keep that in mind if you’re planning to indulge at the tastings.

The Value of This Experience

Considering what’s included—a luxurious hotel stay, tickets to 7 castles, guided tours, and two wine tastings—the price reflects a comprehensive, hassle-free way to explore the Loire. If you’re someone who values expert guidance and doesn’t want to stress over logistics, this tour offers a lot of value.

It’s especially suitable for those wanting a curated experience, with comfort and culture. The small group size (2-7 people depending on the vehicle) ensures a more personal touch, allowing for questions and spontaneous conversations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best for travelers with a curiosity for history, architecture, and wine. It suits couples, friends, or solo travelers who prefer guided experiences and don’t mind a somewhat full schedule. If you enjoy learning from guides, savoring regional wines, and staying in a charming hotel, you’ll find plenty to love.

It might not be ideal for those seeking total independence, a very relaxed pace, or traveling with very young children or mobility issues. But for anyone eager to see the key castles of the Loire with comfort and insight, this is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed for small groups, so solo travelers are welcome and will likely enjoy the company and personalized service.

Are meals included?
Meals and drinks are not included, but you will have options for lunch at recommended restaurants each day.

Can I book a single room?
Single room supplements are not included, so if you prefer a private room, you’ll need to check if it’s available for an extra fee.

How much walking is involved?
Expect some walking around the castles and gardens, but the tour is designed to be manageable. Comfort shoes are recommended.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a Mercedes E220 for 2-3 people or a Mercedes minivan for larger groups, ensuring comfortable, private rides throughout.

Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, mainly because of walking and the tour activities.

Is this a good tour for wine enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The two wine tastings at local family wineries are authentic and varied, giving a genuine taste of the region’s offerings.

What about tips or gratuities?
Gratuities aren’t mentioned, but tipping guides or drivers is customary if you’re satisfied with the service.

Wrapping Up

This 3-day private Loire castles trip strikes a good balance between guided sightseeing, wine tasting, and relaxing in a lovely hotel. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a well-organized, comfortable way to see the highlights of the Loire Valley without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

Travelers who love history, architecture, good wines, and a touch of luxury will find this tour engaging and rewarding. While it involves some long days and shared experiences, the knowledgeable guides, quality accommodations, and genuine local tastings make it a trip worth considering.

If you’re ready to explore France’s most captivating castles and sample regional wines in style, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy the Loire Valley.

You can check availability for your dates here: