A Family Adventure in the Loire Valley

Castles, Kings, and a Touch of Genius

Today was a day of living history, a whirlwind tour through the heart of the Loire Valley. Imagine stepping back in time, surrounded by the grandeur of French royalty and the echoes of artistic genius. From elegant châteaux to the intimate spaces where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years, the day was filled with beauty, history, and a profound sense of connection to the past. It’s days like these that make me so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The medieval-inspired setting was a fun way to start the day, and Émile was especially taken with the rustic decor. It felt like we were fueling up for a quest, and in a way, we were – a quest to uncover the secrets of the Loire Valley. I must admit, the idea of time-traveling through cuisine is something Sophie and I always appreciate; it adds a certain *je ne sais quoi* to the whole experience.


Discover authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Prieuré in Amboise, where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.

First on the agenda was the breathtaking Château de Chenonceau. As we approached, the sight of the château spanning the River Cher was simply stunning. Chenonceau is often called the "Château des Dames" because of the influential women who shaped its history – Katherine Briçonnet, Diane de Poitiers, and Catherine de Medici. Each left her mark, creating a unique blend of Renaissance elegance and feminine charm.


Explore the enchanting Château de Chenonceau, a stunning castle in the Loire Valley renowned for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and architectural elegance.

We wandered through the exquisitely decorated rooms, imagining the lavish balls and intrigues that once filled these halls. The architecture is a beautiful mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles, and the gardens were a delight, even in January. I could almost picture Diane de Poitiers strolling through her garden, planning her next move in the royal court. Émile was fascinated by the stories of secret passages and hidden chambers, his imagination running wild with tales of kings and queens.

The beauty of the Loire Valley lies not just in its stones, but in the stories etched within them.

After Chenonceau, we drove to Amboise, home to the Château Royal d'Amboise. Perched high on a promontory overlooking the Loire, the château offers panoramic views of the town and the river. This was once a medieval fortress, later transformed into a royal residence by King Charles VIII. The history here is palpable, with each room whispering tales of royal births, deaths, and conspiracies. The chill in the air only added to the atmosphere, making me wish I hadn't forgotten my raincoat!


Experience the grandeur of Château Royal d'Amboise, a historic castle offering stunning views, rich heritage, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Loire Valley.

Walking through the castle, I was struck by the blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Charles VIII brought Italian architects and artisans to Amboise after his campaigns, and their influence is evident in the château's design. We explored the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, a beautiful Flamboyant Gothic chapel where Leonardo da Vinci is said to be buried. It's a peaceful, contemplative space, and I found myself reflecting on the passage of time and the enduring power of art and ideas.

Speaking of Da Vinci, our next stop was Château du Clos Lucé, the manor house where the great artist and inventor spent the last three years of his life. It's only a short walk from the Château Royal d'Amboise, and as we approached, I could feel the weight of history and the presence of genius. The house itself is smaller and more intimate than the grand royal châteaux, giving a sense of Da Vinci’s daily life.


Explore the enchanting Château du Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, where art, history, and nature converge in beautiful Amboise.

We explored his bedroom, his workshop, and the gardens, where models of his inventions are displayed. It was inspiring to see his sketches and designs brought to life, from flying machines to elaborate war machines. Émile was particularly impressed by the tank, a design that seemed straight out of a science fiction movie. Da Vinci's brilliance was truly boundless, encompassing art, science, and engineering. Walking through the Clos Lucé, I felt a profound connection to this extraordinary man, a sense of shared curiosity and a desire to understand the world around me.

After immersing ourselves in history and art, it was time for a late lunch. We found a delightful spot called Restaurant le 36, which offered stunning waterfront views. The French cuisine was superb, and the ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Sophie enjoyed a glass of local Loire wine, while Émile devoured a plate of *frites*. It was a perfect moment of family togetherness, savoring the flavors of France and reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day.


Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise – where every meal is a celebration.

As evening approached, we decided to try a local bar called Le Shaker. It was a great choice! The atmosphere was lively, and they had an impressive cocktail menu. I opted for a classic Old Fashioned, while Sophie enjoyed a Kir Royale. Émile, of course, stuck to juice. The bar was located opposite the Château d'Amboise, offering a stunning view of the illuminated castle. It was the perfect way to end our day, sipping cocktails and soaking in the beauty of the Loire Valley.


Experience the best of tapas and local wines at Le Shaker in Amboise, where culinary delights meet a charming riverside atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose Auberge Pom'Poire, known for its creative cuisine and local ingredients. The restaurant is located in a charming setting, surrounded by orchards and gardens. The meal was a culinary delight, with each dish showcasing the flavors of the Loire Valley. The chef's passion for local produce was evident in every bite, and the service was attentive and friendly. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge Pom'Poire in Azay-le-Rideau—a perfect blend of fine dining and cozy hospitality.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore the Château de Villandry, famous for its stunning Renaissance gardens, and the Château de l'Islette, a charming castle surrounded by water. We'll also make a stop at Royal Loire Valley, a shop known for its local crafts and souvenirs. And for dinner, we're heading back to Auberge du Prieuré, a testament to how much we enjoyed it tonight!

As I sit here writing, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible journey. The Loire Valley has exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Sharing these experiences with my family makes it even more special. It's moments like these that create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds that tie us together. And who knows, maybe Émile will grow up to be the next Leonardo da Vinci, inspired by the genius we encountered today.

It’s funny, I had completely forgotten to pack my binoculars for bird watching on this trip! I’ll have to make sure to remember them next time, as I hear the Loire Valley is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Even without them, the sights today were more than enough to fill my senses.

Goodnight from the Loire Valley!