Castles of the Loire Valley by Foot

Sit back and enjoy the journey as you travel by Eurostar from London to Orléans. On arrival, check in to the Best Western Plus Hôtel Saint-Roch and take the evening to settle in and explore your surroundings.

No transport required This morning your guide leads you on a gentle introductory walk through the heart of Orléans - the perfect way to get your bearings, stretch your legs after yesterday's journey and begin to feel at home in this beautiful city. The walk begins at the grand Place du Martroi, dominated by its magnificent bronze statue of Joan of Arc - the Maid of Orléans, who famously liberated the city from English siege in 1429. From here your guide leads you along the wide, elegant Rue Jeanne d'Arc to the towering Sainte-Croix Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece whose breathtaking 19th-century stained-glass windows tell the story of Joan's remarkable life. The route then winds into the cobblestone lanes of Vieux Orléans, where beautifully preserved half-timbered houses and traditional bistros line the streets around Rue de la Bourgogne - a wonderful spot to pause for coffee or an early lunch. The walk ends with a leisurely stroll along the rejuvenated Quais de Loire, where your guide will point out the best spots along France's longest river to return to on your free days.

By train from Orléans 5.5 miles  A short scenic train ride brings you to Blois — one of the Loire Valley's most rewarding towns, perched dramatically above the river. A ten-minute walk from the station leads straight to the Château Royal de Blois, effectively four palaces in one, its wings spanning four distinct eras of French architecture from Gothic to Classical. The residence of seven French kings and ten queens, its celebrated open-air double-helix staircase is said to bear the direct influence of Leonardo da Vinci. Lunch is at your own pace in the winding medieval streets just outside the castle gates, before the afternoon brings a visit to the Maison de la Magie — a wonderfully quirky museum dedicated to the father of modern magic, complete with interactive illusions and a giant mechanical dragon that emerges from the windows several times throughout the day. The day ends with a climb up the monumental Denis Papin stairs for a sweeping panoramic view across the Loire Valley before the train back to Orléans. Entrances: Château Royal de Blois | Maison de la Magie

A day to explore at your own pace. The town of Amboise — home to the Château Royal d'Amboise and Leonardo da Vinci's Château du Clos Lucé — is just 35 minutes by train from Orléans and makes a wonderful independent day trip for those who wish to explore further.

By coach | Half day walking  Today's excursion heads into the rolling Loire countryside for the valley's finest pairing - a world-famous landmark alongside a hidden gem that most visitors never discover. The day begins at the extraordinary Château de Chambord, built by King Francis I as a statement of supreme royal power. With 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces and Europe's largest enclosed forested park, it is one of the most remarkable buildings on the continent. The group ascends the famous double-helix staircase - where two people can climb simultaneously without ever crossing paths - before emerging onto the spectacular roof terrace to look out over the vast estate below. Lunch is available at the château's cafés or as a picnic on the sweeping lawns. On the return to Orléans the coach stops at the Château de Meung-sur-Loire - the "Castle with Two Faces" - presenting a fierce medieval fortress on one side and a refined classical 18th-century façade on the other. The former residence of the Bishops of Orléans, it offers an intimate and highly atmospheric experience, with perfectly preserved underground dungeons, a torture chamber and one of the most intact historical kitchens in France. Entrances: Château de Chambord, Château de Meung-sur-Loire (including historic tour)

Another free day to enjoy at your own pace - perhaps a visit to one of Orléans' excellent museums, a leisurely lunch in the old town, or simply a morning café and an afternoon by the river.

By train from Orléans 5 miles Today's walk is one of the most beautiful in the Loire Valley — a gentle riverside route past the most elegant château in France. The train from Orléans brings you to the small village of Chenonceaux, where the walk begins almost immediately at the gates of the extraordinary Château de Chenonceau — the "Lady's Château," built spanning the width of the River Cher on a series of graceful arches, its reflection shimmering in the water below. From here the route follows the peaceful banks of the Cher through rippling vineyards, quiet country lanes and small villages, the river a constant companion as it winds gently through the valley. The walking is entirely flat and unhurried, making this a day to savour rather than stride — with plenty of time to stop, take in the scenery and appreciate one of the most quietly beautiful corners of the Loire Valley. The walk returns to Chenonceaux station for the train back to Orléans. Entrance: Château de Chenonceau (optional)

After breakfast, transfer to the station for your Eurostar journey back to London, arriving with memories of one of France's most regal and rewarding regions.