A Family Adventure in the Loire Valley

Sunday Strolls and Romantic Echoes

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the quintessential Loire Valley experience: exploring magnificent châteaux. But, instead of just seeing stone walls and historical artifacts, we chased the stories whispered by the wind through manicured gardens and felt the echoes of romance along tranquil riverbanks. It was a day where history met beauty, and family moments intertwined with a sense of timelessness.

Our day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast. We enjoyed a delightful meal at Restaurant Le Château de Pray. The setting was as charming as the food was delicious. I savored every bite, knowing we had a full day of exploration ahead. Émile, of course, was more interested in the pastries, but Sophie and I appreciated the elegant start to our morning.


Experience exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking views at Restaurant Le Château de Pray in Amboise.

First on our list was the Château de Villandry. While the château itself is closed for visits until February, the gardens were very much open, and they were nothing short of breathtaking, even in January. The intricate designs of the gardens were a sight to behold. The geometric patterns, the carefully chosen colors, and the sheer scale of it all left me in awe. I tried to explain to Émile the history and symbolism behind the different garden sections, but he was much more interested in running around the pathways, pretending to be a knight exploring a vast kingdom.


Explore the stunning Château de Villandry, a Renaissance castle in the Loire Valley with breathtaking gardens and rich historical significance.

Sophie, ever the romantic, was captivated by the love garden, with its heart shapes and hidden symbols. I must admit, even I felt a certain charm as we strolled hand-in-hand through the peaceful paths. The winter light cast long shadows, adding a touch of drama to the already stunning landscape. Despite the cold, the gardens were alive with a quiet beauty, a testament to the dedication of the gardeners who maintain this incredible space year-round. I made a mental note to return in the spring when the flowers are in full bloom. I can only imagine how vibrant and colorful it must be then.

To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.

After Villandry, we drove to Château de l'Islette, a smaller, more intimate château with a fascinating history. This château is known for being the site of the passionate romance between Camille Claudel and Auguste Rodin. As we walked through the rooms, I could almost feel their presence, their artistic energy lingering in the air. The château is still inhabited by its owners, which gives it a warm, lived-in feel. It’s not just a museum; it’s a home, filled with personal touches and family history. Émile was particularly fascinated by the suits of armor on display, imagining himself as a valiant knight defending the castle.


Experience the charm of Château de l'Islette, a stunning Renaissance castle surrounded by beautiful gardens in the heart of the Loire Valley.

We took a boat ride on the Indre River, which surrounds the château, offering a unique perspective of the building and its grounds. The water was calm and still, reflecting the gray winter sky. It was a peaceful, almost meditative experience, and I couldn't help but think about Camille and Auguste, their love affair playing out against this very backdrop. I tried to share the story with Émile, but his attention span was limited, and he quickly became more interested in spotting ducks and throwing pebbles into the water.

Before leaving, we stopped by Royal Loire Valley for a bit of shopping. Sophie found some lovely local crafts, and I picked up a bottle of Loire Valley wine to enjoy later. Émile, of course, got a souvenir knight’s helmet, which he promptly wore for the rest of the day.


Explore the Royal Loire Valley: A breathtaking journey through history, stunning châteaux, and picturesque landscapes in the heart of France.

Lunch was a memorable experience at the Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. The setting was absolutely stunning, with panoramic views of the Loire Valley. The food was exquisite, a perfect blend of traditional French cuisine and modern culinary techniques. I savored a delicious coq au vin, while Sophie enjoyed a delicate fish dish. Émile, surprisingly, ate almost everything on his plate, declaring it the best meal of the trip so far.


Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte in Coteaux-sur-Loire – a true culinary gem amidst stunning landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to Auberge du Prieuré for dinner. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, the perfect setting for a relaxing meal after a day of exploration. The food was simple but delicious, focusing on local ingredients and traditional recipes. We shared stories and laughed, feeling grateful for the time we were spending together as a family.


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

Tomorrow, we’re heading to Château de Saumur and the Musée du Champignon. I’m particularly excited about the Musée du Champignon – a mushroom museum! It sounds wonderfully quirky, and I know Émile will love it. We'll also be dining at Auberge Pom'Poire for breakfast and Restaurant le 36 for lunch. And, if we have time, we might just pop into Le Vieux Château bar/brasserie/terrasse for a quick drink.

Today was a reminder of why I love traveling. It’s not just about seeing new places; it’s about experiencing new things, connecting with history, and creating lasting memories with the people I love. And as I sit here, sipping my Loire Valley wine, I can’t help but feel grateful for this incredible adventure.

The Loire Valley in winter has a subtle beauty, a quiet charm that’s all its own. The bare trees, the misty mornings, and the cozy evenings create a unique atmosphere, one that invites reflection and contemplation. It’s a time to slow down, to appreciate the simple things, and to connect with the history and culture of this remarkable region. And as a history buff, I couldn't ask for more. It's funny, back in Montreal, I'm usually buried in archives and historical documents, but here, I feel like I'm walking through a living, breathing history book.

Being here with Sophie and Émile makes it all the more special. Seeing the world through their eyes, sharing these experiences with them, it’s what makes it all worthwhile. I think about my own Cajun heritage, the stories my grandparents used to tell me, and I hope that I’m creating similar memories for Émile, memories that he’ll carry with him for the rest of his life. Perhaps one day, he’ll bring his own family back to the Loire Valley, and the cycle will continue. That’s the beauty of travel, isn’t it? It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey, the connections, and the memories that we create along the way. And as we continue our adventure through the Loire Valley, I know that we’ll be creating many more memories to cherish for years to come.