The Royal Chateau Experience
All Inclusive weekly rate from €3950 per person
50% off discount for 2nd person, shared occupancy
ITINERARY
Sept 19th - 26th, 2027
Journey through the remarkable story of the French monarchy during an unforgettable week exploring the Loire Valley’s greatest royal castles. From the medieval fortress where Joan of Arc met the future king to the spectacular Renaissance palace created by François I, each day reveals another chapter of royal ambition, courtly intrigue, architectural splendour, grand gardens and French history.
Throughout the week, you will stay with us at Château de La Croix Boisée, sharing beautiful meals, relaxed spa time, and the pleasures of life in the French countryside. Our deliberately small group allows the experience to feel personal and unhurried, with time to appreciate the history, architecture and atmosphere of each extraordinary place.
As with all Château Love Retreats & Experiences, excursions, most meals, drinks at the chateau, and transportation are included but never mandatory.
DAY ONE - WELCOME TO LA CROIX BOISEE
Arrive at Château de La Croix Boisée in the afternoon after being collected from the designated train (or other way in which you are arriving). Settle into your room before taking time to discover the château, gardens and spa. In the evening, we will gather for welcome drinks followed by a beautiful yet informal dinner created by our chef —the perfect opportunity to meet your hosts and fellow guests and hear more about the royal history we will explore together.
Day 2 — Château Royal d’Amboise
Standing majestically above the Loire, the Château Royal d’Amboise commands magnificent views across the river and surrounding countryside. Once a favourite residence of Charles VIII, Louis XII and François I, it was at the heart of French royal life during the transition from the medieval period to the Renaissance. Its elegant terraces, royal apartments and graceful Saint-Hubert Chapel—believed to be the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci—make Amboise a wonderfully atmospheric introduction to the Valley of the Kings. We’ll also explore the exquisite town of Amboise.
Day 3 — Château Royal de Blois
Rising above the historic streets of Blois, this extraordinary royal château brings together four distinct periods of French architecture within a single courtyard. Home to generations of kings and queens, including Louis XII, François I and Catherine de’ Medici, Blois witnessed royal marriages, political intrigue and some of the most dramatic events of the French court. Its flamboyant Gothic façades, magnificent Renaissance staircase and richly restored royal apartments make it one of the finest places to experience the changing tastes and fortunes of the monarchy. We shall also explore the beautiful town of Blois.
Day 4 — Château du Loches & Wine Tasting
Journey into the heart of royal France at Loches, where an imposing fortress and elegant royal residence rise above a beautifully preserved medieval town. Within these ancient walls, the stories of Charles VII, Joan of Arc and Agnès Sorel bring to life a world of courage, courtly splendour and royal intrigue. We’ll explore the Royal Chateau and City before wandering through the charming streets below, discovering stone gateways, handsome historic houses and inviting little shops. With its commanding towers and timeless atmosphere, Loches offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and legends that shaped France. In the early evening we’ll explore an ancient troglodyte cave and taste some of the famous Loire Valley wines.
Day 5 — Forteresse Royale de Chinon
Stretching dramatically along a rocky ridge above the River Vienne, the Royal Fortress of Chinon is one of the Loire Valley’s most impressive medieval strongholds. Associated with the Plantagenet kings, including Henry II of England, it later became a residence of Charles VII. It was here in 1429 that Joan of Arc famously sought an audience with the future king and persuaded him to support her mission to liberate Orléans. Its towers, ramparts and sweeping valley views evoke an age of knights, royal conflict and decisive moments in the history of France.
Day 6 — Château d’Angers
Dominating the city and the River Maine, the Château d’Angers is an immense medieval fortress encircled by 17 striped stone towers. Built in the 13th century under the French Crown, it later became the splendid residence of the powerful Dukes of Anjou, whose dynasty extended its influence across Europe. Hidden behind its formidable walls are peaceful gardens, elegant residential buildings and the extraordinary 14th-century Apocalypse Tapestry—one of the greatest surviving works of medieval art. We’ll also explore the exquisite city of Angers.
Day 7 — Château de Chambord
For the grand finale of our royal journey, we visit Chambord, the largest and most spectacular château in the Loire Valley. Commissioned by François I as a royal hunting residence, it rises from an immense forested estate with a breathtaking skyline of towers, lanterns and chimneys. Its celebrated double-helix staircase, vast ceremonial rooms and extraordinary blend of French medieval forms and Italian Renaissance ideas embody the vision and ambition of one of France’s most influential kings. More dream palace than practical residence, Chambord remains the ultimate expression of royal magnificence in the Loire Valley.
In the afternoon, we will return to Château de La Croix Boisée for our farewell dinner—a final celebration of magnificent castles, extraordinary personalities, shared discoveries and new friendships.
Day 8 – Au Revoir