A Family Adventure in the Loire Valley

A Day of Royal Proportions

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the grandeur and history of the Loire Valley. We explored magnificent châteaux and enjoyed local culinary delights. It was a day of royal encounters and hidden passages, the kind of day that etches itself into your memory.

We started our day with breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of a hearty meal set the perfect tone for the adventures ahead. It reminded me of the quaint bed and breakfasts Sophie and I used to frequent in the Laurentian Mountains, though with a distinctly French twist. The pastries were flaky and buttery, the coffee strong, and the company, as always, delightful. Émile was particularly excited, chattering about the dragons he hoped to see at the first château on our list.


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

Our first stop was the Château de Meung-sur-Loire. What an intriguing place! It's known as the château with two faces, and I could certainly see why. The medieval façade facing the town was imposing, while the 18th-century classical façade overlooking the gardens was elegant and surprising with its unique color. It felt like stepping into two different eras at once. The blend of architectural styles was fascinating, a testament to the many layers of history embedded in these stones. I learned that Joan of Arc liberated the castle after her victory at Orleans. I tried to imagine what it must have been like during that time, a pivotal moment in French history. The kids were fascinated by the stories of bishops and prisoners, and we all enjoyed wandering through the different rooms, each with its own tale to tell.


Discover the magical Château de Meung-sur-Loire, a stunning cultural landmark steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

After thoroughly exploring Château de Meung-sur-Loire, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. What a fantastic choice! The setting was stunning, a beautiful château with elegant décor and lovely views of the valley. The service was impeccable, and the food was exquisite. I opted for a traditional French dish, while Sophie tried a more modern creation. Both were delicious. Émile, of course, was happy with his simple but well-prepared meal. It was a delightful culinary experience, a perfect interlude in our day of exploration.


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

Next on our itinerary was the Royal Château of Blois. I had been particularly looking forward to this one, and it certainly did not disappoint. The château is a showcase of French architecture from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. Each wing reflects a different era and style, from the medieval fortress to the Renaissance elegance of the François I wing. I was particularly impressed by the open circular staircase, a masterpiece of Renaissance design. We spent hours wandering through the various rooms, admiring the art, the furniture, and the intricate details of the architecture. I learned that Joan of Arc had also visited this château to be blessed before her departure with her army. Walking through those halls, I could almost feel the presence of centuries of French royalty.


Explore the Royal Château of Blois, a stunning blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The Royal Château of Blois has over 500 rooms and dozens of staircases. It was once the political capital of the kingdom, and has a history going back to the 9th century. Kings lived in the castle, including Louis XII and Francis I. The museum inside the Louis XII wing has paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts dating back to the 16th century.

As evening approached, we sought out a cozy spot for a pre-dinner drink. Le Shaker in Blois was just the ticket. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the cocktails were expertly crafted. It was the perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing. I tried a local specialty, while Sophie opted for her usual glass of wine. Émile enjoyed a sparkling apple juice, feeling very grown-up.


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 Restaurant le 36. The ambiance was intimate, and the menu offered a tempting array of French cuisine. The meal was a fitting end to a day filled with historical and cultural immersion. The service was attentive, and every dish was a delight to the senses. It's these moments, sharing good food and good company, that make our family trips so special.


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

As we headed back to our guesthouse, Émile was already fast asleep, dreaming, no doubt, of knights and princesses. Sophie and I reflected on the day's adventures. The Loire Valley has a way of transporting you to another time, another world. It's a place where history comes alive, where beauty is around every corner, and where every meal is a celebration of French culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Château & Thermes de Saint-Denis sur Loire. I’m looking forward to seeing the architecture and history of the castle, as well as Levée de la Loire. Sophie is looking forward to breakfast at Restaurant Le Château de Pray, and I’m sure we will all enjoy lunch at Auberge Pom'Poire and dinner at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. We also plan to stop by La Tour d'Or Blanc de J.M. Othoniel for some shopping.

As I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share my love of history and culture with my family. The Loire Valley is more than just a destination; it's an experience, a journey through time, and a reminder of the beauty and richness of the world around us. And as we prepare for our final day in this enchanting region, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us long after we've returned home.

The weather in January can be chilly, with average temperatures around 4°C (39°F). It’s a good idea to pack warm clothing, including layers, hats, and gloves. While snow is not very common, it can occur, so be prepared for possible winter weather. The average sunshine is around 3 hours per day in January, with about 15 days of rainfall per month. Be sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat.

It’s wonderful to see the Christmas decorations at some of the châteaux. I had read that Château de Chenonceau is decorated during December and through January, so we might try to visit on our next trip. I also read that there are events in Blois, such as the cirque and concerts. The Rendez-Vous of History also sounds fun, as well as the autumn festival of comics, BD Boum.

Until tomorrow,
David