Joan of Arc is a widely known historical figure, famous for her ferocity and patriotism to France. Nowadays, she is considered a national heroine. The young girl named La Pucelle (the virgin-warrior) is an example of how the convictions of a simple and illiterate peasant can change the faith of an entire nation.

The Archangel Michael apparently revealed to Joan that she must “drive the English out of France”. Following these divine words, Joan of Arc went to Chinon after her 17th birthday to meet with the Dauphin (the eldest son of the King of France).

joan of arc in chinon loire valley

She convinced the prince (the future Charles VII of France) that she could rescue Orléans from the English invasion during the Hundred Years War.

You may follow Joan of Arc's footsteps in the old city of Chinon, and even find the well onto which she used to step when dismounting her horse.

Under her leadership, as she predicted, the French won against the English on May 7th, 1428. However, a tragic destiny was awaiting her. She was captured and sold to the English in 1430. Accused of witchcraft, she was burned at the stake in Rouen in Normandy at the age of 19. Ever since, she has been an emblematic martyr and was canonized much later in 1920. 

joan of arc in rouen

Our Travelers’ Reviews

Bob from the US
The team created an amazing trip. We gave them the nick name “travel fairies” All was just magical.
Elizabeth
My husband and I just returned from two magnificent weeks in France that included four nights in Paris, four nights in the Loire Valley, two nights near Mont Saint Michel, three nights in Bayeux, near the WWII Landing Beaches and one night at a CDG airport hôtel. We stayed in charming B&Bs with equally charming hosts who recommended great places to …
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Our Travelers’ Photos

Ron, Jane, Don & Nancy
From Canada
Visiting a wine cellar
Sharyn
from the US
Taking a cooking class in Normandy
Teri, Kennedy & Chris from the US
in Paris !
Alan & Lucelle
From South Africa
In Mont Saint Michel at the border between Brittany & Normandy
Beth, Moira & Ron from USA
Enjoying a Wine Tasting in Burgundy
Michele, Jacques, Nicole, Gaetan, Joanne & Keith
from Canada
In the Loire Valley
Scott
From Australia
Making "chou" buns in the Loire Valley
Cassandra and Justin
Cassandra & Justin
in Gordes, Provence
Deborah & Richard
from the US
On Omaha Beach, Normandy
Barbara & Gary
from the US
Buying cheese in Rocamadour
Sandra & Tracey
From the US
Girls trip to France !
Shirley
from Canada
In lavender fields in Provence