Camping Loire et Châteaux

You don't have to travel far to find two famed French activities in this region: the bike rides of the Loire à Vélo and the canoe, kayaking and boat trips of the Loire river are within strolling distance. Bike to Chinon forest eight kilometres away or drive there and hire a bike in Chinon town to explore the woodland, including tree climbing in the Saint Benoit Aventure park. Around Chinon are wine cellars and vineyards stretching out into the countryside, to visit by yourself or on a guided tour: take a look at Plouzeau, Chai Pierre et Bertrand Couly, Couly-Dutheil, Monplaisir, Château de la Grille and the Domaine de Noiré. Châteaux? Sorted. First up is Château de Langeais (six kilometres), founded in the 10th century and rebuilt most ornately by Louis 16; then gorgeous  Château d'Ussé (also six kilometres) on the edge of Chinon forest overlooking the Indre Valley… then 16th-century Château d'Azay-le-Rideau (10 kilometres), splendidly set on an island in the middle of the Indre river. Also an excellent option is the Château de Villandry (15 kilometres), the Villandry country house known for its stunning gardens.