The Centre region of France is the true heart of the Loire Valley. It is here that you will find the famed Loire Valley chateaux, which draw so many visitors every year. The most famous of these are Chambord, Chenonceaux, Villandry and Azay le Rideau.
Despite its name, the Centre region actually lies northwest of the centre of France and it is frequently known as 'Centre - Val de Loire'. As well as the magnificent castles, there are many interesting towns and cities to see here - Blois, Tours, Bourges and Chartres (with its fabulous gothic cathedral) are all steeped in history. The regional capital of Centre is the famous city of Orleans. The region produces mainly white wine.
The Centre region is also known for the La Brenne wetlands, known as the area of 1000 lakes. This is an important habitat for bird life and an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Accommodation in Centre is quintessentially French, with stone cottages, rural gites and houses, guesthouses and Chambres d'Hotes or Bed and Breakfasts providing great places to stay. The rustic nature of much of the area mean that converted farmhouses, barns and even watermills are a feature. Of course, if you can find one of the smaller chateaux or a mansion to stay in, you will have found yourself an uniquely French getaway in some of the most lush countryside in the heart of France.