Your getaway to the Loire Valley can be filled with as much or as little as you want. Here are a few things that may be of interest:

• Take a drive through the beautiful small villages of the Loire and take some time to stop at some of the many local vineyards. Most of them feature wine tasting (degustations). A great way to spend an afternoon.
• Bike to Chambord (the largest Chateau in the Loire) which is only 12 kms from the Chateau and have a picnic. An unbelievable experience.
• Check out the local market in Beaugeancy on Saturday morning and bring home some fresh game, fowl, or produce for a great French meal at the Chateau. (Don`t forget the baguettes)
• Take our favorite walk (about 5 miles) down to the levee along the Loire and back to the Chateau. It really helps you digest those great French meals.
• Take the train from Mer into Paris for the day. Do some shopping or sightseeing and return home that night. The train station is only 10 minutes from the Chateau.
• Use the Chateau as a taking off point to see other areas of Europe. It is very centrally located. Most of Western Europe including France, Northern Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Great Britain are within a days drive.
• Soak in the history of Europe as you drive through it. There is so much to see.
• If you like antiques, there are so many places and so little time!
• Or just sleep in, enjoy the ambiance of the Chateau, and drink some great wines.