This multi-day adventure will take guests across northwest and central France to explore historical sites and the charming countryside. Early in the morning, guests will be picked up from their hotel and driven across the Normandy region to the UNESCO-listed Mont-Saint-Michel. As they approach Mont-Saint-Michel, the breathtaking rocky islet will come into view with its impressive Gothic Abbey with the ocean as its backdrop. A seawall links the tidal island to the mainland and preservation efforts are on to help retain its unique maritime characteristic. After the island, guests will explore the ancient Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel Saint Michael. A famous pilgrimage destination and cultural center in the Middle Ages, it was built by the Duke of Normandy in the 11th century. There are Gothic buildings within the compound, including the cloister and the monks’ refectory. Afterward the visit, guests can stroll along the steep and narrow alleys on the island and take in splendid views of the bay from vantage lookout points. They will visit the small village with its smattering of houses and shops, before checking into their accommodations. The next day, after a sumptuous breakfast, guests will explore three royal chateaus in the UNESCO-listed Loire Valley. A guided tour is the perfect way to discover these fine examples of French architecture, surrounded by picturesque gardens. Guests will begin at the Chateau de Langeais, an impressive 15th-century Gothic castle by the river. Believed to be the most medieval of the valley’s chateaus, this edifice showcases crenelated ramparts, period furniture, flagstone chambers, and exquisite tapestries. The tour will continue at the Chateau de Chenonceau, located atop an arched bridge across the Cher River. Guests will view the rare furnishings and art collection stored within this magnificent castle that sits surrounded by formal gardens. The last stop on the itinerary is the Renaissance-style Chateau de Chambord. This 16th-century chateau is characterized by distinctive architectural features such as the turret-covered roof and the double-helix staircase. Guests will accompany their knowledgeable guide inside to view the opulent decor and plush furnishings. After the tour concludes, guests will return to their hotel in Paris.

Duration:
2 days

Start Time:
6:30am

Inclusions:
Transportation to/from the hotel in Paris, breakfast, and lunch. This is subject to change depending on conditions at the start of and during the tour.

Exclusions:
Dinner, additional sights visited during free time, and single room supplement.

Meeting point:
Centrally located hotels (ZIP code 75).

Ending point:
Hotel Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, 18 Avenue De Suffren, 75015 Paris.

Not Suitable For:
Wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and strollers.

Important Information:
– This tour takes place on Fridays.