Experience the history, culture, and adventure of Normandy and the Loire Valley

Traverse centuries of history–Loire’s chateaux, Normandy’s valor, and Le Mans speed. This trip connects time periods through landscapes, history, cuisine, and your own footsteps.

Why Just Visit France When You Can Experience It With Every Step?

Normandy doesn’t whisper history—it roars it. From the legacy of William the Conqueror to the D-Day beaches that reshaped the modern world, this region is a testament to what is possible when strength, strategy, and unity converge. Medieval towns, towering cathedrals, and time-honored culinary traditions—like bold Calvados, rich Camembert, the bite of Andouille de Vire (smoked sausage), and decadent seafood—remind you that every detail has a backstory.

Then there’s the Loire Valley—the “Valley of the Kings”. These châteaux were royal playgrounds for Charles II, Francis I, and Catherine de’ Medici, but above all, symbols of influence, built to last. Beyond the stone walls, the land produces some of France’s most iconic wines—Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Cabernet Franc, cultivated with the same respect for time and tradition.

Every stop is handpicked, every moment crafted for maximum enjoyment, from deep historical immersion to the thrill of the 24-hour Le Mans speedway. You’ll hike coastal trails in Normandy, kayak along the River Loire, and cycle past vineyards and castles. Join us for a journey through history, culture, and adventure. This isn’t just a trip. It’s a walk through the tides of time.

Medium Activity Level: E-bikes

We’ll meet in the medieval city of Bayeux, one of the few towns in Normandy left untouched by the devastation of World War II. What remains is a beautifully preserved medieval center, complete with historical details and a stunning cathedral dating back to the 11th century.

After a brief orientation and logistics overview, we’ll head out on an e-bike tour of the surrounding countryside, where you’ll soak in the history and French landscape. Along the way, we’ll sample some of the region’s best cuisine and get a taste (literally and figuratively) of what makes Normandy so unique.

We’ll conclude our ride at Château St. Gilles, where we’ll kick off our journey with a celebratory three-course welcome dinner that highlights the culinary traditions of the region.

Low activity level: Beach hike

Start your day with a traditional French breakfast before we embark on a journey through The Longest Day—a deep dive into the events of D-Day. We’ll walk the beaches, visit the towns and museums, and step into the history that changed the course of the modern world.

We’ll end the day at the American Cemetery, where the sound of Taps echoes across the cliffs and through every cell of your body—a solemn reminder of the cost of valor.

Back at the château, we’ll lighten the somber mood with a French-style BBQ, giving you a chance to unwind, connect, and take in the peace and quiet of the sprawling property.

“It was a lovely day for strolling along the beach—unless you were trying to stay alive.” – Ernie Pyle

High Activity level: Hiking, morning and evening classes

After an intense and moving day steeped in history, we’ll shift gears, starting with a morning sweat session to get the body moving, followed by a hike along the stunning white cliffs of Étretat. With the sea stretching out beside us, we’ll pause for a light yoga session right on the cliffs—an unforgettable setting for a deep breath and some reflection.

We’ll enjoy a simple picnic lunch, then head to one of our favorite local spots for a cider and cheese tasting that highlights the best of Normandy’s flavors.

Back at the château, we’ll stretch those tired legs in a sunset yoga class and then the evening is yours. You’re welcome to dine at the hotel or explore the charming restaurants of nearby Bayeux. Bonne nuit—tomorrow we have an early start.

Medium Activity Level: Bay walk, evening class

We’re off early this morning to visit one of the most iconic sights in all of France: the abbey at Mont Saint-Michel. You’ll take in the island’s winding medieval streets and dramatic silhouette, then experience its most breathtaking view—from below, standing in the sands of the bay at low tide. Don’t let the stories of quicksand scare you—we’ll be guided by a local ranger who will lead us safely across the bay and share the secrets of this remarkable tidal landscape, with the abbey rising above us like a scene from a storybook.

A nap on the ride back wouldn’t be unheard of, but we’ll bring you back to life with an evening movement class to shake out the legs and build an appetite. Dinner is on your own tonight—either at the hotel or back in town.

Low activity level: Morning class

We’ll wake up with a vigorous class to prepare for our travel day. We leave Normandy behind and make our way into the heart of the Loire Valley, but not before a legendary detour.

We’ll stop in Le Mans, home of the world-famous 24-hour endurance race, for a behind-the-scenes look at the museum and track that made motorsport history. From vintage race cars to cutting-edge engineering, this visit is a dream for anyone who loves speed, strategy, and machines built to push limits.

High Activity Level: E-bikes, morning and evening classes

We’ll kick off the day with a morning class to shake off the road from yesterday’s drive, then head outside to get set up with our e-bikes. From there, we’ll cruise along the scenic Loire River to visit two of the region’s most stunning châteaux: Azay-le-Rideau and Château de Langeais. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch along the way, surrounded by vineyard views and timeless architecture. Back at Château de Rochecotte, we’ll gather for a wine and cheese tasting that showcases the best of the valley.

Later, enjoy a gentle, scenic yoga session—or take your time to relax by the pool, stroll into town, or simply unwind under the shade of the trees.

Medium activity level: Morning class and afternoon classes

We’ll kick off the day with a vigorous class to wake up the body and work up a glistening sweat ( just like prosecco but with fewer bubbles). You'll have some free time to stroll the grounds, swim in that gorgeous pool, or relax in the spa. You can grab a light lunch at the Chateau or walk into town and eat with the locals. We'll offer a luscious stretch under the oaks before giving you time to refresh yourselves before our evening revelry.

Then it’s off to a true farm-to-table experience: a hands-on French cooking class. We’ll learn local techniques, cook with fresh regional ingredients, and of course, enjoy the fruits of our labor, complete with thoughtfully paired wines.

As the evening winds down, we’ll raise a glass and reflect on the journey: from medieval Bayeux to the speedway at Le Mans, from coastal cliffs to riverside peace—a walk through the tides of time, shared with good food, good wine, and even better company.

All good things must come to a close. After a final breakfast at the château, we’ll say our goodbyes and assist with transfers to the train station in Tours. You’re also welcome to extend your stay, perhaps exploring the charming town of Amboise or soaking up more of the City of Light.

Either way, you’ll head home with full hearts and bellies, stronger legs, and memories woven from centuries of history, movement, and connection.