The Centre-Loire Valley is the historical and geographical heart of France, a region inseparably linked to French royalty and the Loire River that runs through it. It is known worldwide for its astonishing concentration of castles (châteaux), ranging from medieval fortresses to elegant Renaissance palaces, witnesses of the splendor of the French court. Known as the 'Garden of France', the region is a fertile land of serene landscapes, lush forests and spectacular gardens. With historic cities such as Orleans, Tours and Blois, and Gothic cathedrals that touch the sky, it is a destination that evokes refinement, the art of living and a journey through the most fascinating chapters of French history.