Exploring the Enchanting Châteaux and Vineyards of the Loire Valley

Blois: A Tapestry of Time and Taste

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the heart of the Loire Valley's rich history and architectural splendor. Blois, a city that breathes history, welcomed us with open arms. From the majestic Royal Château of Blois to the serene Cathedral, every corner told a story. And, of course, no exploration is complete without indulging in the local cuisine.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The charming inn was the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploration. The aroma of freshly baked bread and the rich, dark coffee was invigorating. Elke and Maximilian enjoyed the pastries, while I savored the local cheese. It's these simple moments, sharing a meal, that truly make our family trips special.

Our first stop was the Royal Château of Blois. This château isn't just a building; it's a living textbook of French architecture. From the medieval fortress remnants to the Renaissance wings, each facade tells a different story. The sheer scale of the place is astounding – 564 rooms and 75 staircases. I found myself particularly drawn to the Francis I wing, with its intricate carvings and the famous open spiral staircase. As a restorer of antique furniture, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and the stories these walls could tell. I spent a good deal of time examining the stonework, imagining the artisans who had meticulously shaped each piece. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was fascinated by the tales of royal intrigue and assassinations that took place within these walls. Elke, ever the art enthusiast, appreciated the blend of styles and the way the château reflected the changing tastes of the French monarchy.


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

The Château of Blois is not merely a structure of stone and mortar, but a chronicle etched in time, where each architectural style narrates the evolving story of France.

Wandering through the château, I could almost hear the echoes of kings and queens, courtiers and conspirators. The history of this place is palpable. It was here that Joan of Arc received her blessing before heading off to Orléans. King Henry III took refuge here during the French Wars of Religion. And, perhaps most dramatically, it was here that the Duke of Guise was assassinated, a pivotal moment in French history. The Château of Blois has been home to 7 Kings and 10 Queens of France. Exploring the different wings is like walking through different eras. The Louis XII wing, with its Gothic style, stands in stark contrast to the Renaissance elegance of the Francis I wing. And then there's the classical style of the Gaston of Orléans wing. It's a visual feast, a testament to the changing tastes and priorities of the French monarchy. The château also houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Blois, which boasts an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. I was particularly impressed by the tapestries, which showcased the skill and artistry of the weavers. Elke, of course, was in her element, spending hours admiring the brushstrokes and the play of light and shadow in the paintings. Maximilian, surprisingly, was drawn to the sculptures, marveling at the way the artists had captured human emotion in stone.

After immersing ourselves in the Château's history, we walked to Blois Cathedral, a stunning example of late Gothic architecture. The cathedral, dedicated to Saint Louis, has a fascinating history of its own. Construction began in the 12th century, but much of what we see today is the result of rebuilding efforts after a devastating hurricane in 1678. The bell tower, with its Renaissance-style columns and dome, dominates the Blois skyline. Inside, the contemporary stained-glass windows by Jan Dibbets cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the nave. The juxtaposition of the ancient architecture and the modern art was striking, a reminder that even the most venerable institutions can embrace change and innovation. Elke was particularly moved by the stained-glass windows, noting the way they transformed the light and created a sense of ethereal beauty. Maximilian, with his interest in religious history, was fascinated by the cathedral's role in the community and its connection to the French monarchy. As I admired the intricate details of the stonework, I couldn't help but reflect on the enduring power of faith and the human capacity for creating spaces of profound beauty and reverence. Apparently, every Sunday from June to September, they offer a guided tour of the crypt, which sounds intriguing.


Explore the architectural wonder of Blois Cathedral, where Gothic elegance meets historical significance in the heart of Blois, France.

For lunch, we indulged in a truly unforgettable culinary experience at Restaurant Le Château de Pray. The restaurant is nestled in a stunning castle, offering a fairytale setting for a meal. The Michelin-starred cuisine was exquisite, a testament to the chef's creativity and skill. Every dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. Elke and I savored the delicate flavors and the artful presentation, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous eater, tried new things with gusto. The restaurant itself is beautiful, with elegant décor and a refined atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you feel transported to another world, a world of culinary excellence and impeccable service. We enjoyed the terrace.


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

In the afternoon, we strolled through the charming streets of Blois, eventually finding ourselves at La ronde des rêves, a delightful shop filled with local crafts and souvenirs. We picked up a few trinkets to remind us of our time here. I bought a small wooden carving, a reminder of the craftsmanship I had admired at the Château. Elke found a beautiful silk scarf, and Maximilian chose a book on the history of the Loire Valley. It's these little mementos that help us keep our travel memories alive long after we've returned home.


Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at La Ronde des Rêves, a charming gift shop that captures the spirit of the region.

Dinner at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte was another highlight. Situated in a magnificent 18th-century château, the setting was as impressive as the food. The service was impeccable, and the cuisine was a delightful blend of traditional French flavors and modern techniques. The grounds were stunning, with views overlooking the Loire Valley and we enjoyed a stroll through the gardens before our meal. Maximilian, of course, was in his element, exploring the grounds and taking photos of the scenery. Elke and I enjoyed the ambiance and the opportunity to relax and reflect on our day.


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

The day concluded with a leisurely walk along the Loire River, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. The gentle breeze and the sound of the water lapping against the shore created a sense of tranquility and peace. It was the perfect ending to a day filled with history, beauty, and culinary delights.

Tomorrow, we're off to Château de Chaumont and Le Port de Chaumont-sur-Loire. I'm particularly excited about Château de Chaumont, known for its stunning gardens and the International Garden Festival. I have heard that Le Shaker is a cool bar in the area, so perhaps we will check that out as well. It promises to be another day of exploration and discovery in this beautiful region of France. It's moments like these, surrounded by my family and immersed in the beauty and history of the Loire Valley, that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. The opportunity to share these experiences with Elke and Maximilian is a gift, a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime. And as I reflect on our day in Blois, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this enchanting region and share its wonders with the world.

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I feel a profound sense of contentment. The Loire Valley has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding us of the beauty and richness of human history and culture. And as we continue our journey, I know that there are many more adventures and discoveries waiting just around the corner.