Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France
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Where is the Loire Valley? The Loire Valley is in Central France, located in the Loire River’s middle stretch in the regions of Pays de la Loire and Centre-Val de Loire. Comprising about 800 km2, this is the biggest area in France ever to be included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 2000.
Nicknamed ‘The Garden of France’, the Loire Valley is home to beautiful French cities like Orléans, Amboise, Angers, Blois, Saumur, and Tours.
Well known for its historic towns, impressive Renaissance castles, remarkable gardens, and wines, the Loire Valley is a must-see on any trip to France. Thanks to its proximity to the French capital, it is also possible to visit some of the Loire Valley’s top attractions on a day trip from Paris.
Enjoy this wonderful area in central France on foot, on a road trip, by bicycle, or from a barge!
GOOD TO KNOW: The Loire River (La Loire in French) is not to be confused with the Loir River (Le Loir in French), which is a tributary of the Sarthe. The Loir River is also located in Pays de la Loire and Centre-Val-de-Loire, but it does not have the world-famous Loire castles!
The Loire Valley Region in a Nutshell
Region: Pays de la Loire and Centre-Val-de-Loire.
Average temperatures (max /min): January – 2C /7C; April – 6C / 15C; July – 14C / 25C; October – 8C / 17C.
Main attractions: Loire Castles, Loire by Bike, medieval towns, the Loire River, Orléans, Tours.
Loire Valley Articles
Do you want to visit the Loire Valley in France? Check out our articles about this wonderful region in Central France:
How to Plan the Perfect Loire Valley Itinerary
Best Castles in the Loire Valley
Best Chateau-Hotels in the Loire Valley
Loire Valley day trip from Paris (article on World in Paris)