The Loir-et-Cher, a department in the Center-Val de Loire region, it is the setting of fairy-tale, age-old castles, medieval towns and villages and rolling landscapes along the banks of the Loire, the river that together with the Cher de beautifully authentic region. As if you were back in time. It is not without reason that the Loire Valley is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Culture lovers can indulge themselves here. There are many of the most imposing castles to discover, such as the stately castle of Chambord, which is counted among the most beautiful in France with its 400 rooms and 3000 towers. A true experience! Or visit the well-preserved castles of Beauregard with its gallery des portraits and Cheverny. With around 140 castles, there is plenty to choose from in Loir-et-Cher.
Historic villages and towns should certainly not be forgotten during a holiday in this authentic French region, such as the capital, Blois, which has really retained its medieval character. Stroll through the old center with its narrow alleys and stairs. Be sure to visit the Saint-Louis cathedral and the Blois castle. But also Vendôme as a city of art and culture and Montrichard, where battles of yesteryear are reenacted in the summer, are more than worth a visit.
The cycling enthusiast is also in the right place in Loir-et-Cher, because you can enjoy cycling to discover the region that way. While cycling, enjoy the beautiful landscape with its colorful valleys, heaths, thick forests and old castles. There are good and flat cycle paths along the Loire and the Cher. The area behind this is a bit more sloping, so the cyclist who likes a few short, sturdy climbs will also be in his element here.
After all those cultural activities and beautiful bike rides it is of course wonderful to enjoy a good glass of wine and a tasty local cheese, such as the Selles-sur-Cher; a blue-skinned cheese made in the Cher valley and one of the 44 French cheeses with protected status (AOP).
White wines are produced mainly in Loir-et-Cher. The largest is known as the Touraine. Did you know that the famous Tarte-Tatin originated in this region? From their hotel in Lamotte-Beuvron, the sisters Stéphanie and Caroline Tatin baked the, originally, apple pie upside down. So enjoy in Loir-et-Cher!