🏰 7-Night Loire Valley & Châteaux Tour Campervan Itinerary | Vandango Campervan Hire
- Jack Evans
- Sep 28
- 3 min read
Looking for a romantic road trip this autumn? France’s Loire Valley is world-famous for its fairy-tale castles, riverside towns, and peaceful countryside. In October and November, the region is at its best — château gardens glow with autumn colour, riverside trees turn golden, and the summer crowds have gone.
This 7-Night Loire Valley & Châteaux Tour Campervan Itinerary (10 nights including travel) is designed for couples who want a relaxed but inspiring journey. You’ll explore the Loire’s most iconic châteaux, discover historic towns, and enjoy slow mornings by the river, all at your own pace in Vandango.
👉 Book your Isle of Man campervan hire today and start planning your French escape.
Why Choose 7-Night Loire Valley & Châteaux Tour Campervan Itinerary in Autumn?
Romantic castles: Chambord, Chenonceau, Villandry and more.
Riverside towns: Amboise, Tours, Saumur — perfect for market strolls.
Autumn colours: Peak foliage in October–November across the valley.
Slower pace: Quieter roads and towns after summer crowds.
🚐 Travel to the Loire Valley (Days 1–2)
Day 1: Ferry Isle of Man → Heysham. Drive south to Folkestone, overnight stop en route.
Day 2: Eurotunnel to Calais, then drive through France with an overnight in Chartres or Orléans before reaching the Loire.
Day 3 – Arrival in Amboise
Settle into Amboise, explore the royal Château d’Amboise.
Evening stroll by the Loire riverbanks.
Overnight: Amboise campsite.
Day 4 – Château de Chenonceau
Morning visit to Chenonceau, a château spanning the River Cher.
Afternoon coffee in a riverside café.
Optional: evening light show if available.
Overnight: Chenonceau or Amboise area.
Day 5 – Tours & Riverside Villages
Morning in Tours: explore the old town and covered market.
Afternoon stops in Candes-Saint-Martin and Montsoreau, charming riverside villages.
Overnight: campsite near Tours.
Day 6 – Château de Chambord
Visit the extravagant Château de Chambord, famous for its turrets and double helix staircase.
Picnic in the surrounding parkland.
Evening drive back along the Loire.
Day 7 – Countryside Drive & Saumur
Relaxed drive along the Loire river.
Stop at autumn markets or troglodyte cave dwellings.
Evening in Saumur, known for its riverside château.
Day 8 – Relaxation Day
Easy start: riverside coffee and croissants.
Optional cycling on the Loire à Vélo route.
Evening at a countryside campsite with autumn sunset views.
Day 9 – Château de Villandry & Gardens
Morning at Château de Villandry, famous for its geometric gardens.
Afternoon coffee stop in Langeais or Azay-le-Rideau.
Overnight: nearby campsite.
Day 10 – Begin Return Journey
Drive north with an overnight stop near Chartres.
Day 11 – Calais → Folkestone → UK
Eurotunnel crossing, overnight near Liverpool.
Day 12 – Liverpool → Isle of Man
Ferry return to the Island.
🍁 Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: October–November for peak autumn colours and quieter roads.
Driving Distances: ~1,400 miles return from Calais to Loire.
What to Pack: Layers for cool evenings, walking shoes for château gardens, cycling gear if using the Loire à Vélo.
Campsites: Amboise, Chenonceau, Tours, Saumur, Villandry all have good options.
Budget Tip: Mix campsites with free aires (motorhome stopovers) common in France.
Why Book Your Loire Valley Campervan Hire with Vandango?
With Vandango you can:
Travel from the Isle of Man with everything you need on board.
Wake up beside castles, in riverside towns, or tucked into the countryside.
Add optional extras like a bike rack or awning for more comfort.
👉 Hire Vandango today and enjoy the Loire Valley’s castles and riverside charm this autumn.
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