FranceThe unforgettable Loire
- 12 days
- 10 nights
- 28 meals
Embark on a journey through time, where each stop transports you to another era. The Loire, the longest free-flowing river in Europe, boasts lush scenery, great food, and majestic monuments. Cruise back in time as you visit the region’s most stunning châteaux, showcasing a variety of French architectural styles. You’ll also discover local Breton fare, medieval masterpieces, and much more!
Port of departure:
Nantes
Cities on itinerary:
Nantes, Guérande, Saint-Nazaire, Ancenis, Chalonnes-sur-Loire, Rochefort-en-Terre, Vannes, Carnac, Quiberon
- Moderate
- CAA-Quebec host
Highlights:
- Loire châteaux tours
- Tasting of Breton specialties
- Megaliths in Carnac
- The Apocalypse Tapestry
Itinerary
- Day 1: Montréal – Nantes
Flight to Nantes with Air Transat.
- Day 2: Nantes
Airport pickup upon arrival and transfer to hotel. Mercure Nantes Centre Hotel 4* (D)
- Day 3: Nantes – Guérande – Salt marshes – Nantes (172km)
Leave by coach in the morning for a guided tour of the medieval city of Guérande, known for its ramparts and its rich Breton heritage. Have lunch on your own, then continue to the salt marshes, where a salt worker will introduce you to the traditional art of harvesting fleur de sel in a unique protected area. Taste local delicacies: salted butter caramels, Breton cookies, and more. Return to Nantes. (B-L)
- Day 4: Nantes – Saint-Nazaire
In the morning, visit the distinctive and colourful district of Trentemoult, a former fishing village. After lunch, hop on the tourist train for a sightseeing tour of Nantes. In the late afternoon, board MS Loire Princesse then enjoy a dinner and a welcome reception. Sail to Saint-Nazaire in the evening. (B-L-D)
- Day 5: Saint-Nazaire – Nantes
In the morning, take a guided tour of the small coastal town of Saint-Nazaire and discover the fascinating history of transatlantic liners. Return to the ship and sail to Nantes. In the evening, board a local boat for a cruise on the Erdre, a magnificent river steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. (B-L-D)
- Day 6: Nantes – Ancenis
In the morning, take a guided tour of the city of Nantes and the château of the Dukes of Brittany. In the afternoon, head out on the Muscadet wine route towards the village of Clisson. Tour the Cassemichère Château estate, then head to Clisson. Spend time on your own exploring the town, dubbed “Little Italy of the West.” Return to the boat for an evening of onboard entertainment. (B-L-D)
- Day 7: Ancenis – Chalonnes-sur-Loire
Sail to Chalonnes-sur-Loire in the morning. In the afternoon, visit Angers and its historic neighbourhoods, including the famous Apocalypse Tapestry. Return to the ship in the late afternoon. Enjoy a gala dinner. (B-L-D)
- Day 8: Chalonnes-sur-Loire – Ancenis – Nantes (310km)
Travel by coach to the château of Azay-le-Rideau for a tour, then continue to Villandry for lunch. Explore the gardens and château at Villandry in the afternoon before returning to Ancenis. Sail to Nantes in the evening. (B-L-D)
- Day 9: Nantes – Rochefort-en-Terre – Vannes (146km)
Disembark in the morning and head to Rochefort-en-Terre, one of the most beautiful villages in France, and sample Breton specialties. Continue to Vannes for a guided tour of the historic town centre. La Maison Obono Hotel and Spa 4* (B-L-D)
- Day 10 : Vannes – Île-aux-Moines – Vannes (40 km)
Leave for a morning cruise in the Gulf of Morbihan, with a stop at Île-aux-Moines for a tour. Enjoy a serene journey along the coast and among the islands of this corner of Brittany, known for its ever-changing light. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historic centre of Vannes. (B-L-D)
- Day 11: Vannes – Carnac – Quiberon – Vannes (97km)
In the morning, travel to Carnac for a guided tour of the standing stones. Continue to Quiberon and enjoy views of the unspoiled coastline. Visit a local confectionery for a chocolate and candy tasting. (B-L-D)
- Day 12: Vannes – Nantes – Montréal (114km)
Transfer by coach to the Nantes airport. Fly back to Montréal. (B)
Inclusions
Montréal – Nantes round-trip flight
Transportation by tour bus
5 nights in 4* accommodations
5-night cruise in main deck stateroom
Drinks with meals and at the bar (except champagne and wine list selections) during the cruise
Service of a CAA-Quebec tour leader and local French-speaking guides
Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary
Activities and shows on board the ship
Free internet access aboad the ship
Travel guidebook & explore gift
Applicable taxes
Travel insurance
Baggage handling
Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section
Tips and personal expenses
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Sail aboard the MS Loire Princesse
Launched in 2015, MS Loire Princesse accommodates 96 passengers and is designed for cruising the Loire. It combines technical prowess with refined decor, for unforgettable travel.
Distinctive decor
Warm, pearly tones with copper accents
Smooth cruising on the Loire
Elegant five-anchor ship for viewing the Loire castles from the water
Upper-deck stateroom
Spacious and comfortable stateroom equipped with private balcony
Cozy restaurant
Panoramic windows to enjoy the passing scenery
Lively lounge bar with dance floor
Tastefully appointed space for games and evening entertainment
No departure on the date you wanted? Trip fully booked?
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Our explore pledge: Travelling differently together
Our exclusive group tours are designed to ensure an enriching, friendly, and fuss-free experience:
- French-speaking tour host
- Generous inclusions and exclusive excursions
- Members earn CAA Dollars back
- 15% back in CAA Dollars at the Boutique
- Rewards for loyal travellers
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, according to the stateroom category indicated. Other stateroom categories are available. The accommodation establishments listed may be changed without prior notice. A minimum number of guests is required to ensure the presence of a CAA-Quebec Travel host. Please note that group flight contracts do not allow for seat selection. We therefore recommend that you check in with the airlines 24 hours before departure. This offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Read the full terms and conditions.
If the scheduled flight is operated by Air France or KLM, only the Air France/KLM shuttle bus service will be available for passengers departing from Québec City.