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

Naomi
Our trip was arranged and detailed well in advance, with reservations for activities and places of special interest, and free days with suggestions for things to see and do. We fell in love with Dordogne and the Paleolithic caves for which we had reserved tours, and were able to take in another cave the next day at the suggestion of our B&B hostess …
Marlene & Terry
Emilie, You are the best! Everything you selected for us was perfect in every way. All the tickets, tours and reservations were handled well and we thank you for arranging such a beautiful vacation. We are recommending you to everyone we talk to. If you are ever in Toronto, we would be happy to host you and Guillaume!
Tracey & Sandra
Without a doubt one of the best vacations my friend and I have ever taken! We keep raving to all about how authentic the trip was. Not only was every aspect of this trip gorgeous from the grape vineyards to the lavender fields to the mountainous towns and cathedrals, but the details were second to none. Emilie and Laura provided my friend and I …

Our Travelers’ Photos

Cynthia & Roger
from the US
in Monet's House and Gardens in Giverny
Jane
from the US
Canoeing down the Dordogne river
Pam & Rick
From the US
Tasting some oysters and white wine in the Basque Country
Alexis, Stefanie and Paul...with Emilie & Family
from the US
At the B&B in the Loire Valley
Kathy & Bill
From the US
Biking in Burgundy for a day - near Chateau de la Rochepot
Gary, Barbara, Lori and Ron
from the US
After a cooking class in Provence
Ruth & Mary-Ann
From the US
In front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
Steffi & Jeff
in Chenonceau castle....romantic !
Linda
From Australia
Celebrating her 40th birthday in the Loire Valley
Joe
From the US
Digging & Finding a truffle in Provence
Our guide with Jean's team
In the quicksands in Mont Saint Michel bay
Sally & Mike
From the US
With their hosts in the Loire Valley