Hotels in Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley stretches along the Loire River in central France, famous for its over 300 Renaissance and medieval châteaux like Château de Chambord, built in 1519 for King Francis I. The climate is mild with summers averaging 75°F (24°C) and winters around 40°F (4°C), so you can cycle past vineyards and sunflower fields in July, or explore the dry cave cellars in Saumur for a winter wine tasting. Come for the April to October peak season if you want to kayak on the river or tour the formal gardens at Villandry, but visit in the off-season to snag budget hotel deals and have the grand halls of Chenonceau nearly to yourself.