Day 1 –Arrive at Camping L’Isle Verte
Upon arrival at the campsite, settle into your pitch and then take the opportunity to meet your fellow members and their furry companions with a welcome meeting, drinks and meal at the campsite restaurant.
Day 2 – Visit the markets in Montsoreau
Dogs on leads are allowed in the markets
Located just a short dog walk (approx. 20 mins) or 3-minute drive from the campsite, is the charming village of Montsoreau which is listed among ‘The Most Beautiful Villages in France’. Spend today taking it easy after your journey down, by walking your dogs to Montsoreau market and antiques market along the banks of the River Loire. Spend a pleasant afternoon wandering the streets and routes along the river bank.
Day 3 – Vigneron brunch and wine-tasting. Free afternoon
Delight in a gastronomic treat of a ‘vigneron brunch’ today at the campsite, consisting of cold meats, pâtés, cheeses, bread and of course some wine. The rest of the day will be free. You may like to explore some of the local walks with your dog.
Day 4 – Visit Châteaux d’Ussé and Langeais
COMPLETELY DOG-FRIENDLY! Dogs are allowed inside both châteaux and the grounds
Château Ussé is most famous as the inspiration for Charles Perrault’s fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty. In the afternoon there will be a guided tour of Château de Langeais. Dating from 1465, and once a royal residence, it has the oldest castle keep in France! The castle has many interesting architectural features of note,with large towers, a drawbridge, and battlement walkways. There will be free time afterwards to wander the grounds and visit the Belvedere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk, between cedars and redwoods, leads to an area affording fantastic views across the Loire river. Lunch is included on this excursion
Day 5 –Visit the town and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau
Dogs are allowed in the grounds of the Château but not inside.
Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is considered one of the paramount examples of early French Renaissance architecture. This 16th century palace was built on an islet between two arms of the river Indre. The unique geography has created an exquisite water mirror that reflects the elegant façade. The grounds are also of particular note. Set in an 8-hectare landscaped park that features many exotic species of trees, winding paths, and numerous footbridges that span the river offering intriguing views of the castle. There’s even a secret garden! NB: Extra time has been allowed on this excursion: where two members are travelling together, one can tour the interior of this remarkable château whilst the other stays with your dog in the grounds and vice versa. At their discretion, solo travellers may arrange to leave their dog with another member of the group whilst they explore the interior of the château.
The château is located in the town centre of Azay-le-Rideau, a World Heritage Site. After exploring the castle grounds there will be free time to stroll through the maze of narrow streets, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes (lunch is not included on this excursion).
Day 6 – A free day to enjoy at your leisure. You may like to explore the local town of Saumur (only 8 miles from the campsite) situated on the Loire river, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 7 –Wine tour and tasting, picnic lunch. Afternoon in Chinon
Dogs are allowed on a lead in the Fortress park. Only dogs that can be carried are allowed inside the Royal Fortress building.
In the morning, learn the secrets of Loire Valley wine during a guided winery tour and wine tasting. This will be followed by a delicious picnic lunch overlooking the idyllic Loire Valley vineyards (vegetarian options included). Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore the picturesque village of Chinon. Situated along the Vienne River banks, the village is steeped in history. You can choose to spend a pleasant time strolling the medieval streets, stopping to admire the Renaissance-style private mansions and half-timbered houses. Or visit the Royal Fortress of Chinon, an imposing castle where Joan of Arc first met the Dauphin (entry to the Fortress is optional and not included in the tour).
Day 8 – Travel to Camping Les Saules (L01)
Leave Camping L’Isle Verte and travel to your second campsite in the Loire Valley.
Day 9 –A free day at your leisure
You could spend a day relaxing, walk your dog along one of the many local tracks, or go bird-watching on site.
Day 10 – Day trip to Amboise
Small dogs in carriers only allowed in the Château. All dogs allowed in the park on a lead
Small dogs (must be carried) allowed inside Château Clos Lucé. Leonardo da Vinci Park and Leonardo’s Garden are accessible to all dogs on a lead.
Today you will visit Amboise, a charming market town located on the banks of the Loire. Château d’Amboise is perched high above the river, with beautiful views. You will have the opportunity to explore the Château as well as Clos Lucé - the manor house where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. Afterwards,spend some free time in the town which still retains its old world charm. There is a large pedestrian street lined with restaurants, wine cellars, and quaint shops. Enjoy exploring the streets and shops, perhaps with a few wine tastings thrown in! (Lunch is not included on this excursion).
Day 11 – Day trip to Tours
COMPLETELY DOG-FRIENDLY! Dogs on leads are welcome in the town and at the Guinguette
Exquisitely positioned on the Loire river, Tours is the capital of the Loire Valley and a Unesco world heritage site. Spend the morning shopping or wandering the Old Town (le Vieux Tours) or have an aperitif in the Place Plumereau surrounded by half-timbered medieval houses. In the afternoon there is a visit to the “guinguette” on the river at Rochecorbon. A uniquely French pastime, this is essentially a place of food and entertainment, usually located on the banks of a river. It’s a place to relax and have fun. Dogs are welcome. You can choose from a selection of different eateries, sit back and enjoy the ambience, take your dog for a walk along the river, or perhaps even join in with some dancing!
Day 12 – A free day to enjoy at your leisure
You could visit Château de Chambord - probably the most famous and most magnificent castle in the Loire region. Please note: visiting with a dog is restricted. Dogs are only allowed around the perimeter and not through the main gardens or castle itself.
A reminder that your dog will need to have a worming treatment administered by a vet between 24 hours and 5 days prior to returning to the UK, and the treatment recorded in your dog’s health certificate.
Day 13 – Day trip to Château Chenonceau and visit to local winery
DOG-FRIENDLY! Only SMALL dogs that can be carried in the arms or in a basket are allowed inside the château. All dogs on a lead are welcome in the grounds
The second most visited castle in France (after Versailles). The interior is home to a remarkable collection of furniture, paintings, and tapestries. The grounds are a marvel to behold with an Italian maze, Flower Garden, and Garden of Catherine de Medicis Afterwards you can sample regional wines and cheeses at a local winery.
Day 14 – Free day to enjoy at your leisure and farewell meal in the evening
Please ensure your dog has been taken to a vet for the worming treatment. In the evening, there will be a farewell meal at the campsite with your fellow dog lovers and hosts to end the tour.
Day 15 – Depart from campsite
