The châteaux and gardens of the Loire Valley in France are justly famous for their fairy-tale architecture and formal splendour. For the first time we are delighted to offer the unique opportunity to tour these iconic sites while enjoying all the pleasures of river cruising. On board the MS Loire Princesse, especially designed for the wide but shallow River Loire and propelled by paddle wheels, we can expect refined French cuisine, with drinks included, along with a personal welcome from Captain and crew. On shore, choose from a range of excursions that will take you to some of the outstanding sites of the Loire. These include the châteaux of Ussé, the inspiration behind ‘Sleeping Beauty’; Villandry, with its superb formal gardens and Angers, where a tiny garden and vineyard are concealed within the massive walls. Wine lovers can also enjoy a tour of the Muscadet region.