1. The Climate
In the Loire Valley we have long hot summers. Sure, they are not as warm as those in the far south of France, but we prefer generous heat in which we can live comfortably rather than stifling heat in which we are unable to do anything. Both north and south of the valley have the same climate, so when its 30 degrees in Chinon its 30 degrees in Chateau du Loir.
To illustrate how warm it is here, most private swimming pools in our area are unheated and are opened in May and closed at the end of October. To further illustrate the point, look at the following table which compares average temperatures in degrees centigrade between Edinburgh, London, Nice (in the south of France) and Tours.
| Location | Av max temp in May | Av max temp in June | Av max temp in July | Av max temp in August | Av max temp in September |
| Edinburgh | 14 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 16 |
| London | 16 | 19 | 22 | 21 | 18 |
| Nice | 19 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 26 |
| Tours | 19 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 24 |
2. The Countryside
The Loire Valley is resplendent in it's countryside.
South of the river along the banks of the Loire itself are the
fascinating and historic chateaux that form part of France's
heritage. From
the
medieval
fortress of the Chateau of Chinon with it's unrivalled views
to the glamorous showpiece of Chateau Ussé where the
story of Sleeping Beauty was said to be first written, it is
wonderful to have them on your doorstep. They are alluring and
impressive places to visit even on rainy winter days when your
umpteenth visitor for the year is in need of stimulation!
Away from the glamour of the chateaux, the rolling fields of our area are rich
with colour. From the early spring, the hedgerows are full of wild flowers which
in Britain are now rare; Cowslips in abundance. The nature of the countryside
has not been compromised by the growing requirement for more housing and development
as has happened in Britain. All this together with the well kempt vineyards around
Chinon make our area one of the most beautiful in France.
The north side of the river is full of beautiful villages, vineyards
and rolling countryside teaming with lakes, forests and chateaux. You
are
never far away from some of the prettiest towns and villages in France
and with three great historic cities within an hours distance from each
other you'll never be lost for something to do. The only thing
this area can't offer is mountains and the sea but we have
some of the finest water sports and leisure lakes in
France. Take a drive to the lakes around Ruillé sur Loir, Marçon or La Chartre sur le Loir and visit the
Hotel de France, famous for its connections with the Le Mans 24 hour
car race, the most famous car race in the world.
Fancy a spot of retail therapy then pop down to the ex capital of France,
Tours and marvel at the shops, restaurants and architecture or go to
the market at La Fleche which is one of the largest in the Valley. Why
not try a spot of wine tasting in Vouvray or Bourgueil; just make sure
you have a large boot.
We have a saying that goes like this "If you get bored of the Loire Valley
then you are bored of life".