The Loire Valley, in central France along the Loire River and its tributaries, is distinguished by vineyards, farmland and majestic châteaux. A wine-producing region, it’s known for dry whites such as Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. The city of Orléans is famed for Gothic Sainte-Croix Cathedral and its association with Joan of Arc. The region’s capital, Tours is a busy university town with a medieval quarter.