Orleans, France Hotels, Vacations, Tourism

ORLÉANS is the northernmost city on the Loire, sitting at the apex of a huge arc in the river as it switches direction and starts to flow southwest. Its proximity to Paris, just over 100km away, is a problem for this ancient city. Not only do many Orléanais go to Paris for their evenings out, they commute to work there as well, although a rash of cosmetics factories set up in the suburbs has brought new jobs and prosperity. Yet for all its provincial status, and despite resolutely turning its back to the river, Orléans is a handsome town with an attractive old centre. Despite a rich early history of being a … more »