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France’s long and meandering Loire Valley is not only famous for its diverse wines. As a travel destination unto itself, there are\u00a0numerous features on offer to lure the intrepid traveler, and the Loire Valley is even one of travel expert Rick Steves’ favorites for biking<\/a>. Since Steves is a preeminent source of all things European travel, you know he’ll have some well-formed opinions on the scenery there, whether you’re taking in any part of the valley by bike, foot, boat, or train.<\/p>\n The stretch of the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes-sur-Loire is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, especially beloved for its quaint historical villages and stunning architecture, especially its ch\u00e2teaux. For example, Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau is a breathtaking escape with gardens, priceless art, and wine tasting, known as France’s famous fairytale castle<\/a>. On his website<\/a>, Steves also deems it “France’s first great pleasure palace,”\u00a0listing it among several European destinations whose gardens in particular are not to be missed.<\/p>\n In a region where you can hardly swirl a wine glass without hitting a ch\u00e2teau, not all of them can be pleasure palaces. Alongside the more resplendent Ch\u00e2teau de Chenonceau, the Loire Valley’s Ch\u00e2teau de Villandry is another humble stand-out. In his European garden checklist, Steves notes, “Villandry is an average ch\u00e2teau, but its Renaissance gardens make the estate a show stopper.” While wandering among the blooming gardens, you’ll be able to see why this castle is a must-visit when in the Loire Valley.<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n