The Loire Valley – chateaux, wines and great hiking

In part two of a new mini-series about France’s famous hiking trails, we are following the Loire River, and the tranche of the GR3 that includes some of the area’s famous chateaux, such as Chambord and Amboise. These four properties are also well worth the trek… 
This attractive tuffeau stone townhouse with large garden is located in Fontevraud l’Abbaye, Maine et Loire. Offers six bedrooms, including two bed and breakfast suites – perfect for earning some income.

In the heart of historic Chinon, this is two houses for the price of one! Keep one for yourself and let out the other – it’s already an active gite business.

Fancy your very own chateau?  This is a stunning example, currently a lucrative wedding venue, with 13 bedrooms, surrounded by forest. Plenty more potential: country house hotel? Yoga retreat? Spot the gap in the market.

Lovely six-bedroom stone property with B&B business opportunity in a quiet lane near the popular tourist destination of Montrichard. The village of Epeigné les Bois is close by for fresh bread or a glass of local wine…