Exploring the Enchanting Châteaux and Vineyards of the Loire Valley

First Day Fairytales: Chambord and Cheverny

The Loire Valley greeted us with open arms and a sky full of promise. Today marked the first day of our family’s grand adventure, and I couldn’t have been more excited. Leaving Heidelberg behind, the drive itself was a journey through picturesque landscapes, each turn revealing a new vista of the French countryside. The anticipation of exploring the famed châteaux and indulging in the region's culinary treasures kept our spirits high. With Elke and Maximilian by my side, I knew this trip would be one for the books.

Our first stop was the magnificent Château de Chambord. As we approached, its grandeur was simply breathtaking. The sheer scale of the château is something to behold, and I couldn't help but think about the vision of King François I when he commissioned this architectural marvel. It’s a testament to the opulence and artistry of the Renaissance era. The sprawling grounds and the intricate façade immediately transported us to another time. I was particularly excited to see the double helix staircase, rumored to be influenced by Leonardo da Vinci himself. As a restorer of antique furniture, I'm always drawn to the craftsmanship of the past, and Chambord did not disappoint. The interlocked staircases were ingenious, and Maximilian was particularly fascinated by the fact that two people could ascend and descend without ever meeting. We spent a good portion of the morning exploring the seemingly endless rooms and corridors, each filled with historical artifacts and stunning artwork. Elke, with her librarian's eye for detail, was captivated by the tapestries and the stories they told, while Maximilian, ever the curious one, peppered me with questions about the château's history and architecture.

To walk through these halls is to walk through the pages of history, feeling the echoes of kings and queens, artists and artisans.

Discover the grandeur of Château de Chambord, an architectural marvel in the heart of France's Loire Valley, steeped in history and natural beauty.
After immersing ourselves in the regal ambiance of Chambord, our appetites were calling, leading us to Auberge Pom'Poire for breakfast. This charming auberge, nestled in a quaint setting, offered a delightful start to our culinary journey. The reviews I had read were spot on; the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the breakfast spread was a delicious introduction to the local flavors. We savored the fresh pastries, local cheeses, and strong coffee, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the croissants, declaring them the best he had ever tasted. I made a mental note to try and recreate them back home in Heidelberg, though I suspected the French butter might be the secret ingredient.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge Pom'Poire in Azay-le-Rideau—a perfect blend of fine dining and cozy hospitality.
With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for Château de Cheverny. In contrast to the imposing Chambord, Cheverny exuded a more intimate and elegant charm. This château, built in the 17th century, is remarkably well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the French aristocracy. As we strolled through the immaculately manicured gardens, I couldn't help but admire the classical architecture and the refined lines of the building. The tulips were in full bloom, adding a splash of color to the already picturesque scene.


Explore the majestic Château de Cheverny in the Loire Valley, a historical gem showcasing exquisite architecture, art, and stunning gardens.
One of the unique aspects of Cheverny is its connection to the world of Tintin. The château served as the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall, Captain Haddock's ancestral home. Maximilian, a big fan of the Tintin comics, was thrilled to see the permanent exhibition dedicated to the famous reporter and his adventures. We spent a good hour exploring the interactive displays and learning about the creative process behind Hergé's iconic characters. I must admit, even I was captivated by the whimsical world of Tintin, and it added a fun and playful element to our visit.

For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at Restaurant Le Château de Pray, a Michelin-starred establishment that promised a culinary experience to remember. And it delivered! The restaurant itself is located within a beautifully restored château, adding to the overall ambiance of elegance and sophistication. Chef Arnaud Philippon's creations were daring and innovative, a true delight for the taste buds. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing the freshest local ingredients and a mastery of culinary techniques. Elke, ever the connoisseur, was particularly impressed with the wine pairings, while Maximilian, surprisingly, embraced the more adventurous flavors. I savored every bite, appreciating the skill and passion that went into creating such a memorable meal.


Experience exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking views at Restaurant Le Château de Pray in Amboise.
After such a sumptuous lunch, a bit of retail therapy was in order. We made our way to Royal Loire Valley, a local shop that promotes eco-responsible clothing and accessories made in the Loire Valley. I was drawn to their commitment to sustainability and their support of local artisans. We browsed through their collection of t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies, each adorned with unique illustrations and graphics inspired by the Loire Valley. I ended up purchasing a t-shirt with a charming depiction of Château de Chambord, a perfect memento of our first day. Maximilian opted for a hoodie with a playful design featuring the Loire River, while Elke found a beautiful scarf made from locally sourced wool.


Explore the Royal Loire Valley: A breathtaking journey through history, stunning châteaux, and picturesque landscapes in the heart of France.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant le 36 for dinner. This gastronomic restaurant, located in an 18th-century mansion, offered a charming and elegant setting to end our first day in the Loire Valley. The restaurant overlooks the Loire, providing stunning views as we savored our meal. The food was exquisite, showcasing the best of French cuisine with a modern twist. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to reflect on the day's adventures and to anticipate the discoveries that awaited us.


Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise – where every meal is a celebration.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Château de Saumur and the Musée du Champignon, promising another day filled with history, culture, and unique experiences. We'll start our day with breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré, followed by lunch at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. And in the evening, we'll return to Auberge Pom'Poire for dinner, a testament to its exceptional cuisine and inviting atmosphere. We also intend to visit Le Vieux Château bar/brasserie/terrasse for a nightcap.

As I sit here, penning these thoughts, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. The Loire Valley has already exceeded my expectations, and I know that the days ahead will be just as enriching and memorable. With my family by my side, I am ready to embrace all that this enchanting region has to offer. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all!

The Loire Valley in April is proving to be a delightful experience. The weather has been mild, with misty mornings clearing to pleasant days. It's a good time to visit, as the crowds are smaller, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the châteaux and gardens. I must remember to purchase a French phrasebook tomorrow, as my attempts at speaking French have been met with amusement and gentle correction. A portable phone charger would also be useful, as I found myself running low on battery while capturing the beauty of Chambord. These small oversights aside, our journey has been seamless and filled with joy. I am eager to see what new wonders tomorrow will bring. Until then, au revoir!