Loire River Valley - Très magnifique!
France | Apr 24 - Apr 28, 2023

Melinda
Melinda W.
Suwanee, GA | Reviewed on Apr 30, 2023

My friend and I used Lise at Kim Kim to plan a 5 day trip through the Loire River Valley. We gave Lise the overview of what we wanted to see during our trip. From there, she filled in the details that included everything from our train ride from Paris to LRV and back, hotel, guided chateau tours, and drivers. She also did a great job of touching base periodically prior to our arrival and during the trip.
We stayed in Amboise at a lovely boutique hotel that was in a great location. The accommodations at the hotel were perfect.
The guided tours were either private (just my friend and I) or small groups (max of 8). The tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Because we had tour guides, we were able to skip the lines which proved invaluable. During the tours, we also had time to explore on our own.
My friend and I are from the U.S. and had not been to the LRV before. Lise did a wonderful job of taking the time and stress out of planning a trip in a different country. It was truly a delightful and memorable trip!

Hotel Review
Au Charme Rabelaisien
Amboise

Lovely boutique hotel in a wonderful location. It's within walking distance to shops, restaurants, markets, and to most attractions around Amboise. It's also centrally located within the Loire River Valley. The staff at the hotel was super friendly and helpful. The continental breakfast was very good with fresh fruit, cereals, breads, and other light fare. Our room was a good size and very clean. Overall, we were very happy with our experience and would stay at the hotel again.

Authenticity & Character
Vintage boutique hotel with modern conveniences.
Location
Within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and to most attractions around Amboise.
Staff
Very accommodating and friendly staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed was comfortable and the room and property were very clean.
Activity Review
Chambord, Chenonceau & Lunch at the Château - Full Day
Chambord, Chenonceau & Lunch at the Château - Full Day
France

Visited several chateaus on our trip and Chenonceau was my favorite. The history of Chenonceau is fascinating and the grounds are beautiful. Chambord was interesting to see because of its grandeur and the double helix staircase but other chateaus have a much richer story. I'm still glad I saw it, however. The most special part of the tour was our delicious and authentically French lunch at the privately-owned Chateau. This really made for a unique and memorable experience.

Quality of Experience
If you're visiting the Loire Valley to see the chateaus, this tour shouldn't be missed.
Food
The private lunch at the Chateau was very special and delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Camilla was a friendly and knowledgeable guide. She did an excellent job of explaining the history of the chateaus and region. She was also a safe driver.
Transport
Local specialist: Lise Troulier