(83 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
Learn more about me.

Loire Valley Travel Agent Expert

The Loire Valley, often called the “Garden of France,” is a picturesque region in central France known for its fairytale châteaux, rolling vineyards, and historic towns along the Loire River. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the valley is famed for its Renaissance architecture, lush countryside, and rich cultural heritage. It was a favorite retreat for French royalty and nobility, leaving behind a legacy of grand estates and formal gardens. The region also boasts exceptional wines, charming villages, and a peaceful, romantic atmosphere perfect for leisurely exploration. 


 


Top 5 Places to Visit in the Loire Valley, France:



  • Château de Chambord – A majestic and iconic Renaissance château known for its distinctive French architecture and double-helix staircase.

  • Château de Chenonceau – A romantic castle built over the River Cher, famous for its arches, gardens, and history of powerful women.

  • Amboise – A charming town with a royal château and Leonardo da Vinci’s final resting place at Château du Clos Lucé.

  • Tours – The region’s largest city, offering a lively atmosphere, half-timbered houses, and a vibrant food and wine scene.

  • Saumur – Known for its white stone buildings, elegant château, and status as a center of equestrian tradition and sparkling wine.


 


Top 10 Activities in the Loire Valley, France:



  • Tour famous châteaux – Explore the region’s many stunning castles, including Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, and Villandry.

  • Cycle along the Loire à Vélo route – Ride through scenic countryside, vineyards, and riverbanks along one of Europe’s best cycling paths.

  • Sample Loire Valley wines – Visit wineries and caves to taste renowned wines such as Sancerre, Vouvray, and Chinon.

  • Explore Château de Villandry’s gardens – Wander through beautifully designed Renaissance gardens, including ornamental, vegetable, and water gardens.

  • Take a hot air balloon ride – Get a bird’s-eye view of the Loire River and surrounding châteaux from above.

  • Visit Leonardo da Vinci’s home at Clos Lucé – Discover the inventor’s legacy in Amboise, with exhibits and working models of his designs.

  • Stroll through medieval towns like Loches and Chinon – Enjoy cobbled streets, fortresses, and authentic French charm.

  • Cruise the Loire River – Take a traditional boat ride to experience the region’s landscapes from the water.

  • Attend a wine or food festival – Celebrate local culture with seasonal events showcasing regional produce and gastronomy.

  • Relax in the region’s natural parks – Enjoy outdoor activities and nature walks in areas like Parc Naturel Régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine.

My Reviews

73 of 117 people found this review helpful
Another fabulous trip!
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By  TC  from  San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
72 of 121 people found this review helpful
Travel Expert
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By  Randy  from  Houston
Traveled to  Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
64 of 110 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By  Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz   from  Houston, Texas
Traveled to  Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
63 of 112 people found this review helpful
July 4th Fun!!!
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By  Lady on the Go  from  Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to  Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
56 of 101 people found this review helpful
Anniversary Trip
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By  Chris Cooper  from  Humble, Texas
Traveled to  Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Loire Valley
  • France
  • Europe

Travel Specialist:

  • Honeymoons
  • Couples & Romance
  • Adult Only
  • Adventure
  • Arts & Culture

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTIE
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2013
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2011
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2009

Connect with Me:

Industry Affiliations:

©  Travel Leaders Group