The Loire Valley - Insight Vacations

The Loire Valley
A Magical Journey of Food, Wine and History
12 DAYS
•
SEPT 27 th - OCT 8 th , 2015
EXCLUSIVELY HOSTED BY:
Tour Director, Barbara Barde
and Sommelier Tom LeRoy.
insightvacations.com
MEET YOUR
EXPERTS!
The Loire Valley
A Magical Journey of Food, Wine and History
Indulge your love of food and wine on this gastronomical adventure through the villages
and vineyards of The Loire Valley. Discover this culinary-rich region with your Tour
Director Barbara Barde, and Sommelier Tom LeRoy.
DAY TO DAY ITINERARY:
Chereau Carre for an incredible tour and tasting of the region’s
varietal, Muscadet.
BARBARA BARDE
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
Insight Vacations, Tour Director
Barbara is an award winning television
producer, with over 600 titles to her
credit. She began appreciating and
collecting wine almost 20 years ago
and is known for her impressive cellar.
She is also a “foodie”, always on the
lookout for an amazing recipe, new
ingredients, or a restaurant that no
one has heard of. Barbara is also a
passionate traveller and has spent the
last several summers leading tours with
Insight Vacations and other companies.
She will be your Tour Director.
DAY 1: SUN SEPT 27, 2015
WELCOME TO PARIS
Airport transfers depart from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your hotel
in the heart of Paris at 08:30, 11:00 & 13:30. Relax and settle in or
venture out and start exploring this great capital. This evening join
your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception
and the opportunity to mingle and get to know each other over a
pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local bistro.
Hotel: Pullman Montparnasse, Paris
Meals: Welcome Reception & Dinner
TOM LEROY
Wine Sommelier
Wine Sommelier Tom Leroy is a
criminal lawyer in Toronto who began
collecting and appreciating wine
fifteen years ago. A true aficionado
of wine, he has recently obtained a
wine specialist certificate from George
Brown College and was also certified
as a Wine Sommelier by the Court
of Master Sommeliers. Tom is also a
member of the Canadian Association
of Professional Sommeliers.
DAY 2: MON SEPT 28, 2015
PARIS – NANTES
Today we travel west from Paris to the medieval village of
Guérande at the mouth of the river Loire. Join your local expert
to explore the ramparts of the town and beauty of the natural salt
marshes that the area is famous for. Continue on to the charming
fishing village of Le Croisic where you will savour delicious
local specialties as you lunch by the sea. In the afternoon enjoy
a guided visit to the Musée des Marais Salants where you
will uncover the history of salt mining and learn the meticulous
craft of harvesting Fleur de sel. This afternoon enjoy a scenic drive
through La Baule, a stunning century–old seaside resort featuring
beautiful villas, luxury hotels and casino. Enjoy a sunset walk on
the vast stretch of beach before you continue on to your hotel in
Nantes. The evening is yours at leisure.
Hotel: Radisson Blu Nantes ( 2 nights )
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 3: TUES SEPT 29, 2015
NANTES SIGHTSEEING
Join your local expert on a walking tour through the old city of
Bouffay, the ancient medieval quarter of Nantes. Stroll through
the town’s character laced lanes up to the superb Gothic Cathedral
of St. Paul and St. Peter. Enjoy a tour of the Chateau Des Ducs
de Bretagne, an incredible castle that served as the Breton
residence of the kings of France. Continue your walk through the
Isle of Feydeau and view the architectural remnants of the maritime
traders’ opulent 18th century lifestyle. Spend the afternoon
visiting two exquisite wineries Chateau La Cassemichere and
DAY 4: WED SEPT 30, 2015
NANTE – ANGERS
Enjoy a picturesque countryside drive through the heart of the Loire
Valley to arrive in Angers, meet our local expert at the medieval
castle Chateau d’Angers. Enjoy a tour of the incredible castle
grounds and walk along the fortress walls. In the afternoon visit
Louis de Grenelle and discover the unique setting of this winery
twelve meters beneath the cobble stone streets of Saumur. Learn
the art of sustainable viticulture while you taste the product of the
winemaker’s devotion to beautiful grapes. The rest of the day is
at leisure; perhaps visit the Musee Cointreau for an exploration of
the famed French aperitif?
Hotel: Mercure Angers Centre ( 2 nights )
Meals: Buffet Breakfast
DAY 5: THURS OCT 1, 2015
SAUMUR EXCURSION
Discover the fascinating secret world of mushrooms at the Musée
du Champignon in the village of St. Hilaure. Your fascinating
tour through an underground cave exhibits the many cultivation
methods of mushrooms indigenous to the Saumur region. Onto
Doue-La-Fontaine to enjoy a Troglodyte tour the area’s unique
cave dwellings. Continue your remarkable exploration of life
beneath the surface with a fantastic lunch at the Cathredrales
de la Saulaie. Later we visit the impressive Abbaye de
Fontevraud considered one of the greatest monastic cities in
Europe. Take in a scenic drive on our return to Angers; the rest
of day is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 6: FRI OCT 2, 2015
ANGERS – CHINON – COUR-CHEVERNY
On the way to Chinon visit the family owned Frederic Mobileau
Vigneron winery and learn the art of perfecting the balance of
tradition and modernity in wine making. Whilst in Chinon visit the
Couly-Duthier winery, famous for their renowned vintages
that are only served at the most prestigious tables in France. In
the afternoon explore the beautiful medieval commune, a UNESCO
World Heritage site, with your local guide. Continue on to our
quaint hotel in Cour-Cheverny for a delicious dinner where you
will savour classical dishes prepared in the traditional French style.
Hotel: Relais de Trois Chateaux Hotel, Cour-Cheverny (2 nights)
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
12 day regional tour • Loire valley, france
PARIS
( Day 1, 10-12)
Loire Valley
ANGERS
Chartres
COUR-CHEVERNY
(Day 4 & 5)
Chinon
Saumur
(Day 6 & 7)
Tours
Guerande
Le Croisic
NANTES
(Day 2 & 3)
BOURGES
(Day 8 & 9)
DAY 7: SAT OCT 3, 2015 – LOCAL EXCURSIONS
This morning enjoy a guided walking tour through the local markets. Enjoy some free time, followed by a visit to local
winery Chateau Gardrelle in the heart of the Loire Valley. Learn all about this family’s passion for wines while you explore
their traditional underground cellars within the limestone hills of Rochecorbon. In the afternoon continue on to the Caves
Producteurs de Vouvray, discover the delicate tannins of the Chenin Varietal. After your intimate wine tasting enjoy a
pleasant walk through the vineyard amongst the lush wild vines. Continue back to your hotel to enjoy a delicious seasonal
feast prepared with only the finest local produce and game.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
DAY 8: SUN OCT 4, 2015 – COUR-CHEVERNY - BOURGES
Today you are introduced to the splendour and luxury of French court life with a visit to Château de Chenonceau. Set
on elegant arches spanning the River Cher, it is said to be one of the most beautiful buildings in existence. A local expert
recounts tales of King Henri II’s mistress, Diane de Poitiers, as you tour the home she loved, but from which she was driven by
the vengeful Queen, Catherine de Medici. One of the jewels of the French Renaissance, admire the rich decor, stroll beneath
the trees of the board walk and the formal gardens where roses and clipped lavender are laid out in typical French style. As
your day draws to a close enjoy an unforgettable cruise through the calm waters of the River Cher. Continue on to our hotel in
Bourges where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Hotel: Mecure Hotel, Bourges ( 2 nights ) Meals: Buffet Breakfast
DAY 9: MON OCT 5, 2015 – EXPLORING SANCERRE
Today explore Sancerre, a region famous for specializing in 100% Sauvignon Blanc wines, enjoy an opportunity to visit a
local winery to taste the stunning varietals of this region. This afternoon enjoy lunch together at a typical restaurant in this
picturesque region of the Loire Valley. After lunch, continue on to Chèvrerie de Chamons to sample some of their delicious
goat cheeses. Return to Bourges where the evening is at leisure.
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Lunch
DAY 10: TUES OCT 6, 2015 – BOURGES – PARIS
Start the day with an incredible visit to a towering French medieval catholic church, Chartres Cathedral. Once inside you
can marvel at the intricate French gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass rose window, which floods the cathedral with
colour and light. Return to the French capital where your local guide introduces you to all the fabulous sights! Take in the Notre
Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the vast Place de la Concorde, Champs Elysées and Napoleon’s Arc de Triomphe. Your sightseeing
tour concludes with a photo stop of the Eiffel Tower. The City of Light really lives up to its name when the monuments, buildings
and bridges are lit up in all their glory - for that special touch of excitement and glamour why not experience of one of the
world famous cabaret shows?
Hotel: Pullman Montparnasse, Paris ( 2 nights ) Meals: Buffet Breakfast
DAY 11: WED OCT 7, 2015 – PARIS
Today, stroll the streets of Paris and explore authentic French food culture with your local expert. Visit local gourmet delicatessens,
patisseries, and incredible speciality food stalls. The rest of the day is at leisure. For your final night, enjoy a Celebration Dinner
of seasonal produce at a trendy Parisian restaurant with good wine and great company!
Meals: Buffet Breakfast & Celebration Dinner
DAY 12: THURS OCT 8, 2015 – AU REVOIR PARIS!
Your tour concludes after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 & 11:00.
MealS: Buffet Breakfast
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES
PARIS: See the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Place de la
Concorde, Champs Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Visit local
gourmet delicatessens, patisseries, and incredible speciality
food stalls with your local expert on your food market tour.
CHARTRES: Inside magnificent Chartres Cathedral, marvel at
the stained-glass windows, a riot of rich blues and reds, justly
considered the finest medieval glass in France.
GUÉRANDE: Join your local expert to explore the ramparts of
the town and beauty of the natural salt marshes that the area
is famous for.
BATZ-SU-MER: Visit the Musée des Marais Salants.
LA BAULE: Take in a scenic drive along the coast and view the
beautiful villas, luxury hotels and casino.
NANTES: Join your local expert on a walking tour through the
old city of Bouffay, the ancient medieval quarter. Explore the
Chateau Des Ducs de Bretagne, an incredible castle that served
as the breton residence of the kings of France. Visit two
exquisite wineries Chateau La Cassemichere and Chereau Carre
for an incredible tour and tasting of the region’s varietal,
Muscadet.
ANGERS: Visit the Chateau d’Angers home of the largest
medieval tapestry.
SAUMUR EXCURSION: Visit the Maison Louis de Grenelle to
sample the timeless classics; Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and
Cabernet Franc. Learn about the traditional and modern
cultivation of mushrooms at the Musée du Champignon. Enjoy
a Troglodyte tour of the unique cave dwellings. Visit the
impressive Abbaye de Fontevraud considered one of the
greatest monastic cities in Europe. CHINON: Explore the beautiful medieval commune, a UNESCO
World Heritage site, with your local guide. Nearby in Bourgueil,
visit family owned Frederic Mobileau Vigneron know for
offering multi-faceted wines from the Saint Nicolas de
Bourgueil, Bourgueil, Saumur and Anjou appellations.
TOURS: Guided walking tour through the local markets,
followed by a visit to two (2) local wineries to taste the richness
and diversity of the Vouvray wines at the Chateau Gardrelle
and Caves Producteurs de Vouvray.
CHENONCEAU: Visit the beautiful Château Chenonceau, a
jewel spanning the River Cher on elegant arches. Enjoy a
relaxing cruise on the Loire River.
SANCERRE: Visit a local winery to taste the wines synonymous
in this region. Learn about the local cheeses of the region
from master cheese makers.
INCLUDED SIGNATURE DINING
11 Buffet Breakfasts
1 Welcome Reception and Dinner
3 Lunches
2 Hotel Dinners and 1 Celebration Dinner
INCLUDED FIRST CLASS SERVICES
11 nights in First Class hotel Accommodation as indicated.
Your knowledgeable, experienced Insight Tour Director is a
‘travelling concierge’ who will take care of every detail to
ensure that your journey is comfortable, enjoyable
and memorable.
Enjoy the unique comfort of Insight’s luxury air-conditioned 40
seat motorcoach with extended leg room and on-board
restroom. It’s business class comfort.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander
during visits to famous highlights without missing any of your
local expert’s fascinating insights and commentaries.
Baggage handling everywhere - with seamless and prompt
delivery to your door at every hotel.
Hotel and restaurant tips included - you’ll never have to worry
about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. Plus
we include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
Insight Flourishes - from time to time, your Tour Director will
enchant you with local tidbits, each representing authentic
food or beverages unique to the destination.
Airport transfers at scheduled times on Day 1 and Day 12
LAND ONLY PRICING:
Twin Share ...... $5322 per person
Single .............. +$1610 per person (on a request basis only).
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
PAYMENT SCHEDULE
Deposit
A non-refundable, non-transferrable deposit of $200 per person is required within 3 days of booking.
Full Payment
Balance in full due 70 days prior.
NOT INCLUDED
Airfare, any item not mentioned in the itinerary, personal expenses, drinks, optional excursions, gratuities to the Tour Director, Driver and Local Guides. Airport Transfers: If
flights do not qualify, Insight Vacations can arrange for transfers at an additional cost or guests can make their own way to the/from hotel/airport. No refund for missed or
unused transfers. Operation of this tour requires a minimum to depart. Should these not be met, Insight Vacations reserves the right to alter or cancel arrangements. Insight
Vacations reserves the right to vary itineraries/hotels/venues should circumstances (i.e. weather, traffic or timing) dictate, as well as cancel in accordance with operating
requirements or circumstances beyond its control.
IMPORTANT RESERVATION INFORMATION
Travel Protection Plan
Although our quotation does not include the cost of a Travel Protection Plan, we strongly recommend Cancellation and medical insurance.
Passport
It is the responsibility of each tour participant to obtain a valid passport. Your passport must be valid for six months after your departure date.
DISCOUNTS
Frequent Traveller Discount is applicable. No other discounts, brochure discounts, trade discounts etc. are applicable with this tour. Other conditions may apply.
For all other Booking Conditions and other important information please visit www.insightvacations.com
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your local Travel Agent:
insightvacations.com