Château de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece in the Loire Valley, is distinguished by its famous two-storey gallery that harmoniously spans the Cher River. Known as the "Château des Dames", it owes its nickname and unique charm to the influence of its female owners, who have shaped and embellished the monument over the centuries. Built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet, it was subsequently enlarged by Diane de Poitiers, transformed and sumptuously decorated by Catherine de Médicis, becoming one of the most important sites of royal power in France.

Despite the vagaries of history, Chenonceau was spared during the French Revolution thanks to the intervention of Madame Dupin, who succeeded in preserving the integrity of this architectural gem. Today, her feminine imprint remains everywhere, from the layout of the gardens to the interior decor, testifying to a rare refinement and an atmosphere of tranquility.

This privately-owned monument is one of France's most visited sites, attracting travelers from all over the world thanks to its fascinating history, richly furnished rooms and exceptional location on the Cher River. The gardens, designed in the image of the great ladies who left their mark on the place, offer a peaceful setting for strolling, admiring the flower beds and enjoying superb panoramic views.

For an even more memorable experience, many visitors opt for a helicopter or hot-air balloon flight, contemplating the unparalleled perspective offered by the gallery that crosses the Cher, and the beauty of the region's wooded surroundings. This aerial view reveals the perfect harmony between Renaissance architecture, French gardens and the winding course of the river.

Close to other Châteaux de la Loire, such as Amboise and Villandry, Château de Chenonceau is a must-see when visiting Touraine. Its elegance, historical heritage and feminine aura make it a place charged with emotion, indissociable from the French art of living.

Château de Chaumont, also known as Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, is one of the most remarkable Châteaux of the Loire, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Loire Valley. Its history is studded with great names, including Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers, who have successively owned it and contributed to its renown. Perched on a promontory overlooking the Loire, this masterpiece harmoniously blends medieval architecture with Renaissance influences, providing an exceptional testimony to the evolution of styles over the centuries.

Every year, the Festival International des Jardins de Chaumont-sur-Loire attracts landscape gardeners and designers from all over the world. This not-to-be-missed event features the ephemeral gardens that make the estate so famous. The flowered walkways and panoramic views over the Loire Valley complete the experience, making Chaumont an unforgettable place to stroll and discover.

In addition to its architectural and landscape heritage, the Château de Chaumont offers contemporary art exhibitions, cultural events and guided tours throughout the year to immerse visitors in the fascinating history of the region. Easily accessible from the other Châteaux de la Loire (Chambord, Blois, Chenonceau, etc.), this enchanting site is an essential stopover for all lovers of history, gardens and the typical Loire Valley landscapes. Whether on the ground or in the air, Chaumont-sur-Loire promises total immersion in French art de vivre and heritage.

Overlooking the majestic Loire River, the Château d'Amboise is one of the jewels in the crown of the Châteaux de la Loire, and was the preferred residence of the kings of France during the Renaissance. Situated in the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic monument enjoys an exceptional location, overlooking the town and offering breathtaking panoramic views of the region's verdant landscapes.

Founded in the 11th century, the Château d'Amboise today covers more than five hectares, including elegant formal gardens, spacious courtyards and emblematic towers, testifying to the perfect blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Numerous illustrious figures have lived here, from Louis XI to François I, including Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci, who is laid to rest in the Château's Chapel.

The site's cultural richness and splendor attract visitors from all over the world, who particularly enjoy admiring it from the air. Indeed, a panoramic flight by helicopter or hot-air balloon allows you to take in the immensity of the estate, the winding bed of the Loire and the tuffeau slopes all at once. This unique flight offers total immersion in French history, while revealing the incomparable beauty of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
 

-You fly with people you know and have chosen

-You'll share an emotional moment that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

-You choose the size of your gondola: 4, 8 or 12 passenger seats

- Select your starting point:

-Loire Valley castles (Touraine) : Chenonceaux or Amboise

- Château du Lude (Sarthe)

- The location of your choice (home, hotel...), subject to suitable land, contact us

-You are in direct contact with the pilot to prepare your flight

-Your experience ends in style with a glass of champagne

 -Gondola capacity: 2 to 12 people

- Weather: the activity depends on the weather, and your flight may be postponed if conditions are not favorable. You will be informed 1/2 day before by sms.

- Public : The activity requires good physical condition. You cannot fly if you have a serious medical condition or have just undergone surgery. We are not in a position to judge your physical condition, so we advise you to seek advice from your doctor if you are in any doubt. Pregnant women and people with prosthetic limbs are not accepted on board. Children are accepted from the age of 6 and if they are over 1 m 20 in height.

- Attire : Bring comfortable clothing, closed shoes and a head covering.

Booking your flight: two options

1. Ticket valid for 18 months: receive your gift box by post (postage 9€90) or collect it from Air Touraine Store, or opt for the ticket sent by e-mail. Plan your date at your convenience using our online schedule. As soon as your order is confirmed, we'll e-mail you a gift voucher, so you can choose the date that suits you best later.

2. Choose your flight date (ticket valid for 18 months) directly when you order online, by consulting the proposed schedule. If you don't find the date you're looking for, don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail info@airtouraine.fr

New flight date [IF POSTPONED] :

If your flight is postponed due to weather conditions, you have the option of rescheduling your appointment using our "I have my tickets, I'm booking" section.. Simply enter the voucher code you received by e-mail with your initial booking to select a new date via our online calendar. If necessary, we can send you this code again. Simply send a request to the following address: info@airtouraine.fr

• Terms of payment :

Full payment is required at the time of order (via credit card, cheque or vacation vouchers, cash, bank transfer).
For your convenience, we offer the possibility of paying in 2 instalments free of charge by credit card via our secure online payment platform.

• Extend the validity of your ticket:

If you wish to extend the validity of your ticket, opt for our extension option and getan extra year to enjoy your experience.

• Cancellation option :

You can take out a cancellation option when you order or book a date, allowing you to postpone your flight or be reimbursed in the event of a definitive cancellation on your part.

• Basic cancellation option: €15.00/person
• Basic cancellation and postponement option: €48.50/person

(voir terms and conditions of sale)

Our CSR commitments: GREEN FLAG project

Winds of change meet commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Our sector cannot turn its back on its responsibility for the aviation of tomorrow, and that's why, as a pioneer in green aviation, we're committed to pushing back the boundaries of the airline industry by integrating CSR into every aspect of our business, whether in our helicopters, hot-air balloons or airships.

Our approach to CSR is based on three fundamental pillars:

The Environmental Component :

We are aware of the environmental impact of our flight operations. That's why we invest in cutting-edge technologies to reduce our carbon emissions, minimize our ecological footprint and preserve the fragile ecosystems we fly over. From reducing fuel consumption to adopting sustainable biofuels and protecting the biodiversity of our heliport, every flight is a step towards a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly aviation future.

The Societal Component :

We firmly believe that our success as an airline goes hand in hand with the well-being of the communities we serve. That's why we're committed to supporting local initiatives, promoting diversity and inclusion among our staff, and ensuring some of the highest standards of safety and well-being in the industry. From creating local jobs to promoting sustainable tourism, we work to be a driver of prosperity and social development wherever we operate.

The Economic Component :

Economic sustainability is at the heart of our business model. We are constantly looking for ways to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs and invest in fair and ethical business practices. By working with local partners and fostering inclusive economic growth, we help strengthen regional economies and promote a sustainable financial future for all.

Our Aeronautical Approvals

At Air Touraine, we're proud to hold the aeronautical industry's most prestigious certifications, testifying to our expertise, safety and professionalism. These certifications, obtained through strict controls and rigorous audits, attest to our compliance with the industry's most demanding standards.

Here is a list of our approvals:

Helicopter air carrier: FR.AOC.0079

Hot-air balloon carrier: FR-O063

Operator specialized in high-risk aerial work: FR.DEC.0110

Flying school (helicopter / hot-air balloon) : FR.DTO.0284

Airworthiness Manager: FR.CAMO.0116

Each code represents a specific recognition of our commitment to safety, the quality of our services and our ability to meet the requirements of the aeronautical sector. Thanks to these approvals, Air Touraine can guarantee its customers certified expertise and an optimum level of service.

By choosing Air Touraine, you're choosing trust and excellence, backed by high-level certifications that place safety and quality at the heart of our concerns. 

Our Tourism Approvals

Travel Agency Certifications: A Guarantee of Trust and Excellence

At Air Touraine, our commitment to quality, safety and transparency is reflected in the certifications we have earned in the travel industry. These labels attest to our seriousness and expertise, while guaranteeing our customers services that comply with the strictest standards.

Certifications that make all the difference

Our certifications are the fruit of rigorous work and a constant commitment to excellence. They illustrate our ability to offer tailor-made trips, with customer satisfaction and safety at the heart of our concerns. Thanks to these labels, we can assure you of transparent management, impeccable service quality and total compliance with the regulations in force in the tourism industry.

We are registered with the Registre des Operateurs de Voyage et de Séjours: IM03700003, enabling us to offer you holidays.

Financial Guarantee: ATRADIUS, 159 rue Anatole France-CS50118-92596 LEVALLOIS PERRET

Professional liability insurance: ALLIANZ IARD, 1 Cours Michelet-92076 PARIS LA DEFENSE.

Contract no. 086846 956

When you choose Air Touraine, you're opting for a certified travel agency that puts quality, safety and innovation at the heart of its services. Let us convince you of our proven expertise, and enjoy exceptional travel experiences with complete peace of mind.