The 1000-kilometre-long area of the Loire Valley originates in the rugged central Ardeche region of France and hugs the banks of the picturesque Loire River which eventually empties into the Atlantic near the bustling shipbuilding port of Saint Nazaire. This UNESCO-listed region is dotted with numerous charming towns and cities; from Nantes, a thriving cultural hub in the west, to the ancient cathedral town of Tours and Angers, with its exciting nightlife. Visitors can explore more than 100 fairytale chateaus, which are otherworldly architectural marvels of towering turrets, opulent banquet halls and innumerable extravagant chateaux. The Regional Natural Park of Loire-Anjou-Touraine brims with phenomenal natural landscapes to explore, lined with gorgeous trails, and the opportunity to see a magnificent bird and animal life and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.