A 3-day getaway along the riverside in Touraine

Near Loches
in More than 2 hours away from Paris from Paris

With another person - With my family - With my tribe

Head to southern Touraine in the Loire Valley for a retreat where you’ll discover the rivers, vineyards, and the jewel of châteaux, Chenonceau. Opt to stay in an oasis of greenery at the 3-star Cap France holiday village “La Saulaie”. It’s the perfect base from which to explore the treasures of the region with ease.

The team behind the organisation that manages the holiday village will do everything in its power to give you an unforgettable stay. You’ll feel right at home! As soon as you arrive, it’s time to relax and not think about anything. Your fully equipped room is ready and all you need to do is head to one of the restaurant dining rooms to enjoy a meal made with local products by the team of four chefs. There’s a complimentary glass of sparkling wine each evening, a little bonus that is sure to please.

In the village itself, enjoy the 9 hectares of wooded grounds. There’s no shortage of activities – take a stroll along the botanic trail to discover the varieties of surrounding trees, work up a sweat on the fitness trail or face off in a game of ping pong. Then, after a full day, I’d recommend taking a moment to relax with a little swim in the heated outdoor pool.

S'échapper 3 jours en Touraine au fil de l'eau — © Simon Papillault

Wander around three rivers

During these three days, why not head down to the banks of the Cher, the Indre or the Indrois! It’s up to you to choose. Enjoy each moment and take your time as you head along the riverside to the most beautiful destinations in Touraine. Pick up one of the hiking maps provided by the village and set out for a day full of adventures.

If you don’t have a car or feel like some low-key exercise in the fresh air, you can go by bike.

Head along the Indre and you’ll reach the Cher Valley, then take a moment to soak in the magnificent landscapes. Meander along the riverside and discover the pearl of Touraine, the Château of Chenonceau. It’s the only château built on a bridge in the world. Before you go and uncover its secrets, enjoy a meal basket prepared by the chef, using local products. It’s up to you whether you’d rather picnic on the banks of the Cher or near the château.

Discovering the Château of Chenonceau

After a morning with plenty of fresh air, it's time to visit Chenonceau, the “Château des Dames” (Château of Ladies). Close your eyes and be transported to the Renaissance. Step into the shoes of Catherine de’ Medici, Diane de Poitiers, or Henry II, and walk up the central avenue like a queen or king. You will have an unforgettable experience exploring the main gallery, bedrooms and the most beautiful kitchens in the Loire Valley.

Tasting delicious wines

Time for some well-deserved comfort after a busy morning! That's the Touraine way. Head to see an 8th generation winegrower, who will share his love of grapevines and good wine with you. He's also the only winegrower to cultivate the château's grapevines. Here, you will taste a range of vintages, each one more delicious than the last. Close your eyes and let all the aromas of the terroir fill you with joy.

Chédigny, the garden village of 1000 roses

Finish your trip with a detour along the Indrois river and the magnificent village of Chédigny. It’s an extraordinary place with a million fragrances, the only village in France with the “Remarkable Garden” label. Take a deep breath of happiness with the 1000 rose bushes and monastic garden with a wide range of plants, flowers and vegetables. The entire village is full of rose bushes and perennials, near houses or at the wash house, making it explode with colour and scents. After this olfactory delight, why not treat your tastebuds with the bakery’s famous meringues. You can choose from more than 30 flavours, including rose, of course.