A unique heritage that spans 250 kilometres

Château royal d'Amboise dominant la Loire A unique heritage that spans 250 kilometres

In 2000, UNESCO bestowed the cultural landscape World Heritage title on the Loire Valley, a prestigious title held by some of the world's most significant sites. The area along the banks of this nearly 250 kilometre stretch of Europe's last wild river constitutes a unique setting that is the result of a harmonious blend of natural treasures and the genius of mankind. In the heart of the Loire Valley, in Touraine perhaps more than anywhere else, the Loire and the "tuffeau" stone beds constitute an ideal showcase for the majesty of the major chateaux and the arts of gardening and winegrowing.

Val de Loire map - World heritage

From Amboise to Candes-Saint-Martin, visitors on a Loire Valley tour can admire unique landscapes comprised of islands and shape-shifting sandbanks that create an impression of constantly evolving scenes. With its wide open spaces, preserved landscapes and the very particular lighting that has attracted painters here for generations (including William Turner), the majestic Loire is also home to a remarkably rich ecosystem: numerous migratory birds (terns typically nest on the banks), beaver colonies and rare plants (including endemic species of small orchids) have made this haven of peace their home.

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Ici, vivre est un art