Happy group of people poing in front of the beautiful old castle - Lorie Valley tour. Check 2024 Loire Valley Tour dates

Beautiful old castle - Lorie Valley tour. Check 2024 Loire Valley Tour dates

On of the enchanting castles in Loire Valley

On of the enchanting castles in Loire Valley - FRANCE OFF THE BEATEN PATH™ tours

2027 Loire Valley Tour Dates

Name: France Off the Beaten Path
Brand: France Off the Beaten Path
Rating: 5.0 (580 reviews)

Best Adventures in Loire Valley

RATED EXCELLENT WITH 500+ REVIEWS

2019 WINNER!! 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR!

RECOMMENDED BY FROMMER’S FRANCE!

**2027 Loire Valley Tour Dates & Price**

October 2026 Loire Valley tour guests during our visit to Chambord Castle.

Discover the Loire Valley with the friends who call it home.

In 2027, we celebrate 33 years specializing exclusively in small-group travel in France. Our “France with Friends” travel philosophy brings you into our longtime friends’ homes, kitchens, and wineries for personal experiences and warm welcomes in the Loire Valley.

Join fellow solo travelers and couples to explore magnificent châteaux, beautiful gardens, and charming villages—with captivating tales of kings, queens, and royal intrigue, wonderful food, and lively conversations around our friends’ tables.

2027 Loire Valley Tour Dates

April 12–17 – Half Full
April 19-24 – Sold Out
April 26-May 1 – Private – Sold Out
May 3–8 – Only 2 Spaces Left Available
May 17–22 – Only 4 Spaces Left Available
May 24–29 – Only 4 Spaces Left Available
May 31–June 5 – Only 4 Spaces Left Available
June 7–12 – More Than Half Full
June 14–19 – Half Full
June 21–26 – Half Full
June 28–July 3 – More Than Half Full
August 30–September 4
September 6–11
September 13–18 – Only 4 Spaces Left Available
September 20–25 – More Than Half Full
September 27–October 2
October 4–9 – Only 4 Spaces Left Available
October 11–16 – Half Full

Your Loire Valley Tour Details at a Glance

Tour Length: 6 days / 5 nights
Tour Days: Begins Monday–Ends Saturday
Price: US$5,499 per person, double or twin occupancy
Single Supplement: US$860, applies to solo travelers and any guest requesting a single occupancy room.
Maximum Group Size: 12 guests per tour date
Hotel: 5-nights at one of our 4-star boutique hotel partners, Hotel Pavillon des Lys or Clos d’Amboise. Both have air-conditioning
Questions & Answers: Read our Loire Valley Tour FAQs

Have More Questions?

Email christy@traveloffthebeatenpath.com to confirm availability or ask any questions. We’ll be happy to help!

       EXCELLENT  
   Based on 109 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sue Heffernan 
 12 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I travelled a lot in my younger years and fell in love with France but I had never been to Provence. No longer a spring chicken and travelling by myself, I was a little daunted and wondered if I would be able to cope.l happened upon “Off the Beaten Path” a boutique tour company who managed to make every day of my tour a day to remember. Phillippe and Chloe filled our days with laughter, wine making lessons, picnics, a macaron cooking class sensational restaurants , village markets and all the while filling us in with the history that only a local of many years can know. I met the most beautiful ,amazing  people of all ages with whom l will keep in touch. Thanks to Off the Beaten Track and a special Thank you to Phillippe for sharing your Provence with me. 😀Sue🇦🇺🦘🐨
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Suzy Shinkle 
 11 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Our tour of Provence was a such a memorable, special experience with Off the Beaten Path!! We loved the lovely accommodations, quaint villages and markets, exceptional food and wine and of course our amazing guides, Philippe and Chloe! This is the perfect way to experience the south of France. Everything is taken care of so you can just take it all in and enjoy!!! Highly recommend!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ray Shinkle 
 11 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing experience. Chloe is a darling young lady who was a delight to be around for 5 days and Philippe is the coolest French dude you’ll ever meet. Both were excellent guides who will take you to some very special places.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pamela Kaul Gresty 
 10 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Overall, I thought the trip was terrific. The Off the Beaten Path team was knowledgeable and attentive. Isabelle is a tireless advocate for every traveler, a bundle of energy and extremely knowledgeable about all things French, as only a true person of origin can be. Anne is exceptionally knowledgeable about the history of the area and I wish I could have learned more from her. I thought the trip was well organized thanks to Christy and her remarkable network  and knowledge of the area. My only recommendation would be to add more time for independent wandering of the city. Half a day wasn’t long enough when there’s so much to explore. I had an extra day since my tour started a day after our tour ended so I went to the wine museum and the opera house - both magnificent.  I loved all the wine tastings, our day in Arcachon and, of course,  our most memorable cooking class. I fully suspect that Christy’s relationships make many of these activities possible. Finally, I thought it was generous. There was no skimming on food and wine, which was especially notable and appreciated for we foodies. My sincere thanks to you all. I hope to greet you all in Loire next year ❤️.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Deborah Kahkejian 
 10 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I didn’t know what to expect. I was a solo traveler on my first tour.  I cannot rave enough about my experience.  Our tour guides, Phillips and Chloe were knowledgeable and met all needs.  The tour itself was Wow.  No worries, wonderful food, beautiful villages, a great experience for all.  I am so grateful that I chose the Off the Beaten Path Provence tour!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kathleen Chalmers 
 9 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +8
I went on two tours with OTBP, the Loire Valley and the Provence area tours. Both were spectacular and it was so interesting to experience the difference in cuisine and architecture and landscapes.

Thoroughly enjoyed the itineraries and special dining/cooking with friends offered in each. Guides Summer, Christine, and Remi in Loire; and Philipe, P2, and Chloe’ were so kind, knowledgeable, and such a joy daily. Castles, gardens, wine, cheese, desserts, more wine, more cheese and the Loire, along with spicy stories made this a lovely memorable trip. In Provence, mountaintop vineyards, cliffside villages and a trip to the sea were all breathtaking along with stories of the ancient Roman Empire and Van Gogh. Of course, wine and cheese and herbs and fragrance were Provence highlights. I especially liked having one single home base hotel in lovely Amboise for the Loire tour, and St. Remy de Provence.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Suzanne Day 
 9 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
We were looking for a small group of travelers who wanted to learn about a destination and also enjoy the culture. Off the Beaten Path exceeded our expectations. Summer, Christine, and Isabel provided a lot of information in a delightful manner. French kings, historical chateaus, fabulous food and wine were balanced with sufficient free time so that we never felt overwhelmed or bored. We loved the highly personalized experiences and the central location. We look forward to traveling with OTBP again.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Alexandra Fallot 
 8 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a wonderful experience-super knowledgeable guides sharing their insights, history of the area and favorite dining spots (and shopping spots!).  Loved the personal touches-they knew the people and places we visited so well.  Truly feel like we saw some of the best spots in the area with great guides and a fun group of fellow travelers.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   pam carter 
 7 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a great time. From the first dinner to the last it was a wonderful blend of chateaux, food, wine and lovely company. The tour was well paced and our guides were professional, fun and great company. I would love to go back to the Loire Valley. I would definitley consider doing another Off the Beaten Path tour.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anne Watson 
 6 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +7
Summer and the team at Off the Beaten Path were incredible! I cannot say enough good things about them. The tour was very well organized with unique trips including dinner on an island in the Loire River, a special trip to a very cool winery, two exceptional experiences with a Michelin chef and an MOF chef, along with chateau tours galore. Summer has incredible knowledge of French royalty (and salacious gossip!) I truly cannot say enough great things about this group, this tour, or this experience overall. It's simply a MUST!
  
 
 
  
 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more

Dietary Preferences & Food Allergies

We happily accommodate dietary preferences—including vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, and gluten-free—as well as food allergies. Our goal is to ensure that every guest enjoys the exceptional culinary experiences included throughout the tour.

Download Our Loire Valley Tour Brochure

Loire Valley Tour Brochure (PDF)

What Makes France Off the Beaten Path Loire Valley Tours Memorable?

For more than three decades, we have lived, worked, and maintained a local office in the Loire Valley—an extraordinary region whose history, landscapes, and people continue to inspire us. As one of the area’s most active and experienced small-group tour companies, we go beyond magnificent châteaux to share the traditions, personal stories, and friendships that give the Loire Valley its soul.

The photo to the right captures the spirit of France with Friends travel philosophy perfectly: Christy floating down the Loire River with one of our tour groups alongside dear friends Aurélien and Summer. Aurélien is the captain who welcomes our guests aboard his traditional wooden boat for their river float and privately hosted island dinner, while Summer is a cherished member of our Loire Valley guiding team. It is a joyful moment shared among friends in the place we call home.

Whether you are discovering the Loire Valley with us for the first time or returning for another adventure, you’ll experience the region through the people we know and love—not simply as a visitor, but as a welcomed friend.

Press & Accolades

Featured in Frommer’s France Guide
2019 Winner! LUX Tourism Awards “French Tour Operator of the Year!”
2018 Winner! LUX Tourism Awards “BEST Boutique French Tour Operator!”
2017 Winner! LUX Tourism Awards “BEST French Touring Company!”
Featured in and Contributor to Best Selling Author PJ Adams Travel Series Book – Intoxicating Greater Paris; Loire, Valley of the Kings!
Featured “Best Active, Cultural Loire Valley Tour” by Travel & Leisure
Featured on Conde Nast Traveler’s “Editor’s Pick List“
Featured in USA Today Travel Tips

Loire Valley Tour Photo Gallery – From Past Loire Valley Tours

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PRICE & INCLUSIONS

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RATED 5 STARS BY HUNDREDS OF HAPPY TOUR GUESTS

OVER 500 VERIFIED FIVE-STAR REVIEWS ON TRUSTPILOT

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RATED 5 STARS BY HUNDREDS OF HAPPY TOUR GUESTS

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A WORD FROM Our Guests:

Exceeded Our Expectations!

“This trip to the Loire Valley exceeded our expectations! Christy planned unique and interesting excursions and activities that highlighted the beauty of the area and provided in-depth background knowledge about the various chateaux we visited. The cooking classes with renowned chefs, held in their restaurants and homes, were never-to-be forgotten experiences, and the visit to the winery was a highlight. The hotel was delightful and charming, and staying in one location for the entire time was a treat. Every meal or cocktail hour was planned to highlight the delicious specialties of the region. Christy is extremely knowledgeable about the various places we visited and imparted that knowledge in an interesting and entertaining manner. She and Remi took great care to ensure that we were always comfortable and well-looked after. We could not have asked for a better trip!” — Ron Rose & Sharon Matsumoto (Have done Provence tour and Loire Valley tour)

This was my third trip in the same number of years

“This was my third trip in the same number of years with Christy and Off the Beaten Path. While on her trips you can tell how much effort there is on the off season to make every single week perfect. From the pick up at the train station to the teary goodbye at the airport, everything is perfectly planned and executed. The hotel in St. Remy is magical, and the tour guides Philippe and David are exceptional. If you are considering a trip with OTBP, go for it and come home with new friends, a love of Provence and a longing to return as soon as you can!” — Beth Bower (Has done Provence tour twice and Loire Valley tour)

The Best Tour Company!

“I have done two tours – Provence and Loire Valley – and I am already looking forward to booking another. The tours are all perfectly curated and Christy is a wealth of knowledge. She is so kind and takes all of your needs and wants into consideration. I cannot recommend Off the Beaten Path enough!” — Madison Carl (Has done Provence and Loire Valley tours)

“We did the Provence tour. 8/2019. I had taken the tour 2017 & this time my husband came with me. It was just as fabulous this time as it was in 2017. Restaurants, picnic, sights, wine, all of it just delightful, but the frosting on the cake is a the knowledge, insight, humor, & attention to detail from David & Philippe. To us, they make a great trip soooo much fun. (also, 3 of our neighbors joined us this tour). Don’t hesitate, take this tour & enjoy!!!!!” — Jim & Carol Dean (Carol has done Provence tour twice)

Returning to Provence with France Off the Beaten Path

“I wanted to return to Provence as soon as it was open. I had toured with Christy in Loire Valley in 2019 and knew I wanted to travel with her again. For the second time, everything was well organized, personal and definitely off the beaten path. Christy and Phillippe have a wealth of knowledge and are eager to share. The hotel was perfectly located in St Remy, the tours to the lavender and sunflower fields are my favorite memory. The lunches and dinners were like visiting friends. The boat tour in Cassis was another highlight. Even though I had visited Provence, this trip with France Off the Beaten Path brought a new appreciation for the area.” — Susan Gage (Has done Loire Valley tour, Provence tour, Champagne tour)

“We had an excellent tour with Christie and her crew in the Loire valley. We did things that only a true insider would have access to-dinner at a Michelin chefs house, helping/learning to cook at a highly rated restaurant in their kitchen. This was in addition to seeing the sights and touring the castles. A truly unique experience that is off the beaten path. We will use her again when going back to France.” — Karen Berner (Has done Loire Valley tour)