The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chantonnay, Pays de la Loire and Paris, Île-de-France

Chantonnay, located in the heart of Vendée, is a beautiful city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Meanwhile, Paris, the capital of France, is a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy, and culture, with an endless array of attractions and sights to see. This road trip from Chantonnay to Paris offers a delightful mix of countryside and urban experiences, from vineyards and picturesque villages to grand museums and amazing landmarks.

The halfway point of the trip is Neuville sur Sarthe, 72, a charming town in the Sarthe department that sits on the bank of the river Sarthe and offers scenic walks, historic sites, and local gastronomy.

Visit the Château de Chambord

The Château de Chambord is one of the most magnificent castles in France, situated in the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 16th century by King Francis I, the castle boasts an impressive façade, immense interiors, and exquisite gardens, making it a perfect destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Interesting Fact: The Château de Chambord has 365 chimneys, one for each day of the year.

Explore the Cité de Carcassonne

The Cité de Carcassonne, located in the south of France, is a stunning medieval fortress with a fascinating history and breathtaking views. Built in the 13th century, the citadel is a testament to the defensive architecture of the time and offers visitors the chance to explore its walls, towers, gateways, and castle keep.

Interesting Fact: The Cité de Carcassonne was a major filming location for the movie "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves."

Taste Wine in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, located in southwestern France, is famous for its incredible wine and beautiful architecture. The city is full of charming squares, narrow streets, and monumental buildings, as well as over 100,000 hectares of vineyards that produce some of the best wines in the world. Visitors can taste and learn about the local wines at the city's many wineries and wine bars.

Interesting Fact: Bordeaux has the highest number of preserved historical buildings of any city in France except Paris.

Visit the Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous landmarks in France, and rightly so. Located just outside of Paris, the palace was the residence of the French royal family and is known for its grandeur, opulence and rich history. Visitors can take a tour of the palace to see the famous Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, and the stunning gardens.

Interesting Fact: The Palace of Versailles was originally built as a hunting lodge for Louis XIII in 1623.

Discover Paris by Night

Paris is known as the City of Light, and for good reason. At night, the city comes alive with dazzling lights and mesmerizing displays, illuminating the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and other famous landmarks, creating an enchanting atmosphere that visitors won't soon forget. Take a stroll along the Seine river, enjoy a drink in a rooftop bar, or participate in a nocturnal guided tour of the city to see Paris in a whole new light.

Interesting Fact: The Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour when it is dark outside.

In conclusion, this road trip from Chantonnay to Paris offers a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern excitement, with a range of experiences to suit every traveler's tastes. The journey covers approximately 400 miles and takes around 7 hours by car, but the impressive sights and stunning landscapes make it all worth it. Take the time to explore the cities, savor the local food and wine, and soak up the rich culture and history of France.