Reading for the Road:
Books About Loire Valley
At The Slow Road we answer to many names (wanderers, bon vivants, students of life) but first and foremost, we’re a group of dedicated travellers.
That’s why we love compiling reading lists that include those books—from novels to memoirs, and everything in between—that have really opened up our favourite regions.
In this post we’ve rounded up some of our favourite books about the Loire Valley.
Must-Read Books about Loire Valley
The Road from the Past, Traveling through History in France
By Ina Caro
Time travel through France by way of its finest chateaux, cathedrals and monasteries. This unusual travelogue is an invaluable companion for traveling in Paris, southern France, the Dordogne and the Loire Valley, combining personal observation with large doses of well-presented history.
The Cathedral Builders of the Middle Ages
By Alain Erlande-Brandenburg
All over Europe, from Westminster to Rouen, the cathedrals of the Middle Ages still stand. This book explores the world of the medieval master mason. How were these structures built when only primitive machinery was available? Who initiated and designed them? Who built and paid for them?
Experience Loire Valley With B&R
Scheduled Group Biking Trip
See just how sweet life is here! Our Loire Châteaux Biking trip allows you to take a romantic ride through history. Slum it with Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, and Leonardo da Vinci, as you stay at not one, but two châteaux. You’ll feel like royalty at every turn.
DETAILED ITINERARYPrivate Group Biking Trip
On our Loire Valley Biking trip, we roll out the red carpet for you in the playground of French kings and queens past. Bike through the stunning countryside and take in the regal châteaux, ancient monuments and, of course, miles of verdant vines.
Detailed Itinerary
Eyewitness Guide Loire Valley
Eyewitness Guides
Visually rich, comprehensive, and practical, this guidebook is an excellent introduction to the history, culture and attractions of the Loire Valley. Highly recommended.
Chocolat
By Joanne Harris
This charming novel set in the Loire Valley pits provincial morals against pleasure. Adapted into a popular movie.
The Sun King
By Nancy Mitford
An opulent, celebrated biography of Louis XIV. Gracefully written in a witty, conversational style, Mitford’s book brings Versailles to vibrant life.
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Great work, many really good tips! I appreciate you crafting this editorial and the rest of your web-site is amazing!
What a haven of resources for Loire Valley! Thanks for the great effort and tips!