France, the size of Texas, is the largest country in Western Europe. Its geographical and cultural diversity is a tourism magnet that calls to be explored time and time again. The Loire Valley offers such a variety of outstanding sites where reputed golf courses are set beside some forty surreal historical chateaux and historical sites.

This valley of the Kings route has been plied for centuries along the longest river in France, the Loire River which remains the last of the wild rivers in Europe. The French Kings literally castles hopped from one royal castle to another along the banks of the Loire River.

The capetians established their dynasty here over 400 years ago before choosing Paris as their capital. Blois in La Beuce country, was once the favourite residence of French Kings. The city of Tours in the middle of Touraine Region is known to be where French is best spoken and has cuisine of the highest reputation.

Famous the world over, the Loire Valley with its magnificent royal chateaux is the 3rd most visited area in France, just after Paris and the Cote d'Azur. Tours is now only one hour from Paris by high-speed TGV.

Here history combined with spiritual and cultural ways of life have combined to produce the famous Loire Royal Valley. The Loire is a superb area for a superb golfing holiday - just three hours drive from Calais and other northern ports.

Regal chateaux spot the hillsides. Vineyards roll through copses of trees. French gastronomy is a veritable paradise. One which you should try at least once during your lifetime. Amongst wine cellars, food specialities, sound and light (laser fireworks shows) are a selection of reputed golf courses: Les Bordes, Chateau Sept Tours, Ardree & Touraine, Cheverny, Orleans Donnery, Les Aisses, Sully-sur-Loire, Limere, Ganay.

The Les Bordes Resort not far from Castle Chambord is undoubtedly the most impressive of all the resorts in terms of exclusivity and quality challenging golf - designed by Robert Von Hagge see Seignosse. Les Bordes is consistently ranked amongst the top 100 courses in Europe and one of France's top 5. Water features on 12 of the 18 holes on this course and it really is a challenge even for low handicappers. Expect to enjoy this stunning course, but scoring well may prove to be more difficult.

The peacefulness and scenery here in the Loire Valley make a golfing holiday a truly relaxing experience. You can add to the enjoyment of your vacation exploring the legendary Loire Valley by staying at one or more of the romantic chateaux available.