Register Now: CIC Cultural Weekend 2025

Catherine Chambaud and the CIC French Delegation invite you on an unforgettable journey through the majestic landscapes, historic estates, and rich traditions of the Loire Valley. This exclusive three-day experience will immerse guests in the art, history, and hunting culture that have shaped France’s heritage.

At the heart of this weekend is vénerie, the majesty of French hunting on horseback, an art form deeply interwoven with the country’s traditions. Through visits to exceptional castles, private receptions, and cultural performances, we will explore the enduring legacy of hunting, conservation, and the arts. The weekend will be further enriched by a performance of hunting horns and a private jazz orchestra on Saturday evening.

Location: Pays de la Loire, France
Dates: May 23–25, 2025
Price: €1,200 per person (includes accommodation, meals, guided visits, and exclusive experiences)

Itinerary and Highlights:

Friday, May 23, 2025 – Arrival and Château de Chenonceau

• Arrival at the hotel: Check-in at Bois des Chambres, Chaumont-sur-Loire starting from 16:00 (guests arrive independently; no transportation from Paris is planned).
• Departure to Château de Chenonceau at 17:00 by bus.
• Private guided tour of the château and gardens at 18:30, experiencing the elegance of the Château des Dames, shaped by legendary women such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis.
• Apéritif and dinner at L’Orangerie, Chenonceau, in a superior setting.
• Return to the hotel by bus.

Saturday, May 24, 2025 – Vénerie, Tradition, and a Grand Evening

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• 10:00 – Departure to Château de Montpoupon.
• 11:00 – Private visit to the Museum of Vénerie, an estate at the heart of French hunting culture, showcasing the elegance of hunting on horseback for large and small game.
• Exclusive reception with the château owner, featuring a traditional hunting horn performance evoking the splendor of ceremonial French hunts.
• Lunch at the château or nearby.
• 15:00 – Visit to Clos Lucé, the final residence of Leonardo da Vinci, exploring his workshop, visionary inventions, and scenic gardens.
• Return to the hotel.
• Formal dinner and private jazz orchestra performance at Grand Chaume.

Sunday, May 25, 2025 – Gardens and Farewell

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Morning visit to Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, a landmark overlooking the Loire River and home to the Festival International des Jardins.
• Guided tour of the château and gardens.
• Check-out and room departure by 13:00.
• Lunch at the hotel before departure.
• Guests return independently (bus option under review).

Cultural and Gastronomic Experiences

• Hunting culture and its ties to French heritage, with private presentations and live performances.
• A formal dinner and jazz orchestra on Saturday evening, blending historic grandeur with contemporary elegance.
• The grand sound of hunting horns, evoking the splendor of traditional French hunts.
• Fine dining and regional wines, offering a true taste of the Loire Valley.
• Exclusive guided tours and historical insights, providing a deep dive into France’s cultural treasures.

This weekend is more than a cultural retreat – it is a tribute to the legacy of hunting, conservation, and the artistic and historical richness of France.

Registration and Payment Details

Total price: €1,200 per person (including accommodation for two nights, meals, guided visits, and all listed activities).

Registration Deadline: April 5, 2025

Your place is confirmed upon payment.

Payment Methods

1. Bank Transfer
   IBAN: LI44 0880 0554 5031 1200 1
   SWIFT/BIC: LILALI2X
   REFERENCE: CIC CULTURAL WEEKEND 2025 + NAME
2. By Credit Card or Direct Debit:
   Pay by card here

Once payment has been made, please confirm by sending an email with the name(s) of attendees and payment confirmation to [email protected].

Spaces are limited—secure your place today and join us for an extraordinary weekend of culture, history, and tradition.