Loire Valley

Todd Sain Sr.

9 years ago

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Loire Valley Facts

The incredibly beautiful Loire Valley sits in an area of the world already well known for its abundance of natural beauty. That’s because the geological marvel formed roughly in what now constitutes the middle portion of the Loire River, in Europe.
This hauntingly beautiful location places the stunning wonder in the central region of the country of France. The picturesque valley also stands out due to more than just that beauty, though. It also remains famous for an important anthropological fact.
That holds true because the wonder has been inhabited since at least the Middle Paleolithic period. It also remains quite popular for its abundance of vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields. These actually line much of the length of the river.
The magnificent Loire Valley also remains known by other, less official names, though. That’s because many people often refer to it by such attention-grabbing titles as the Cradle of the French, and the Garden of France, along with a few others.
Doubtless consequently, its long-standing role of importance in the region earned it a significant honor. In 2000, UNESCO added this marvel of geology to its listings as a World Heritage Site. It’s also understandably a leading tourism site in the region.

Blyde River Canyon Hells Canyon Kali Gandaki Gorge

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Loire Valley Geography and Climate

The fabulous formation that man named the Loire Valley also impresses visitors for reasons other than its beauty. It also does so with its sheer physical size. This occurs because the massive vale comprises a significant portion of the entire area of the country.

In fact, its length measures roughly 170 mi (280 km), and the total area of this masterpiece equals about 310 sq mi (800 sq km). Yet its wonders still don’t end there. Various factors, including the unique location and structure, provide the area with yet another benefit.

As a result of these myriad factors, the region within it remains comparatively mild throughout most of the year. In addition to the agricultural areas, numerous forests are also present. Indeed, the river flowing through the Loire Valley creates a unique boundary.

That roughly forms a demarcation line between the northern and southern climates. Unfortunately, the temperature in the summer sometimes becomes uncomfortably high. However, cool breezes from the Atlantic Ocean often moderate these conditions.

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Loire Valley Historical Importance

The amazing and fascinating Loire Valley frequently played a pivotal role in ancient times. In point of fact, the site served as a region of importance even in the days of the Roman Empire. Understandably, the impact the empire had in the region was enormous.

Signs of that ancient civilization still exist in the present world today. This statement holds true due to some truly incredible occurrences. For one, the locations of cities and roads still remain strongly influenced by the actions taken by the old empire in antiquity.

During what historians now call the Hundred Years’ War, the mesmerizing valley additionally, and regrettably, served as a frontier zone in the lengthy conflict. The notoriety of the site, however, rapidly escalated for new reasons at the beginning in the 19th century.

Starting at that time, the Loire Valley became a strong focal point of tourism. In fact, the importance of the region to tourism was what formed a driving force behind the preservation of the area itself. This lovely location continues to astound the eye today.

As a result of its extensive natural appeal to so many, the feature now holds a unique status in the minds of those who appreciate the wonders of Nature. The valley’s great natural beauty still ranks it in the minds of many as one of the most beautiful valleys on earth.