Family Adventure in the Loire Valley: Castles and Countryside

Echoes of Royalty: Cheverny and Blois

Today, our Loire Valley adventure took us on a journey through time and architectural brilliance. From the elegant symmetry of Château de Cheverny to the layered history of Blois, each château offered a unique glimpse into France's royal past. It was a day of exploration, where every stone seemed to whisper stories of kings, queens, and the intricate dance of power and legacy.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant le 36 in Blois. Katarzyna enjoyed a classic French breakfast of croissants and coffee, while Zofia opted for some delicious pain au chocolat. I had a simple omelet, fueling up for the day's adventures. The restaurant was lovely, with a nice waterfront view.

Château de Cheverny: A Tintin Connection

We started our château visits at Cheverny. As an automotive enthusiast, I was immediately drawn to the château's classical French architecture. Built in the 17th century, its symmetry and design were a testament to the era's architectural ideals. I couldn't help but appreciate the clean lines and balanced proportions, a stark contrast to the more gothic styles we'd seen earlier in the trip. The attention to detail was incredible; even the roof styles were meticulously designed, adding to the château's overall elegance.

Zofia was particularly excited about Cheverny, and I soon found out why. It turns out that Château de Cheverny served as the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comics! Zofia, a huge Tintin fan, was thrilled to recognize the familiar façade. We spent a good amount of time exploring the Tintin exhibit, which brought the stories to life in a fun and engaging way. It was fascinating to see how the creators of Tintin translated the real-world architecture into their beloved comic series.

Wandering through the interior, I was impressed by the lavish furnishings and intricate decorations. The château has been owned by the same family for over six centuries, and it felt like stepping back in time as we walked through the various rooms. The largest room, the Arms Room, was particularly striking, filled with weapons, tapestries, and a carved wooden chimney piece. Katarzyna was captivated by the priceless tapestries and paintings throughout the château, each telling a story of generations past. The care and affection lavished upon this château were apparent from top to bottom.

Cheverny is more than a historical site; it's a living testament to the French art of living, where every stone and tapestry tells a story of generations past.

The gardens at Cheverny were equally impressive. Although it’s still early spring, the tulips were in full bloom, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors. Zofia enjoyed running through the gardens, discovering hidden pathways and secret corners. The formal French gardens, with their meticulously manicured hedges and symmetrical designs, were a sight to behold. It was the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings.


Discover the enchanting Château de Cheverny, a historical gem in the Loire Valley, renowned for its stunning architecture and lush gardens.

Royal Château of Blois: A Tapestry of History

After a refreshing morning at Cheverny, we drove to the Royal Château of Blois. Unlike Cheverny's singular style, Blois is a melting pot of French architecture, showcasing styles from the Middle Ages to the 17th century. This architectural diversity reflects the château's long and complex history, having been a royal residence for several French kings.

As we approached the château, I was struck by the imposing façade of the Louis XII wing, constructed of red brick and grey stone. The equestrian statue of the king above the entrance added a touch of grandeur. Inside, the château was a maze of rooms and staircases, each with its own unique character. The sheer number of rooms – 564 in total – was staggering, a testament to the château's importance as a royal residence.

One of the highlights of Blois was the Salle des États Généraux, dating back to 1214. This grand room, with its two naves separated by six columns, was once used as a courtroom by the Counts of Blois. I could almost imagine the scene, with judges, lawyers, and plaintiffs all gathered in this impressive space. Zofia enjoyed the opportunity to have her photo taken on the 'throne' within the Stateroom and be royalty for the day.

The Francis I wing was another standout feature, with its Renaissance-style architecture and intricate carvings. The open circular staircase was a marvel of engineering, and I couldn't help but admire the craftsmanship that went into its construction. It was fascinating to learn about the various historical events that took place within the château's walls, including the assassination of the Duke of Guise in 1588.

Katarzyna was particularly interested in the Musée des Beaux-Arts, located in the Louis XII wing. The museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts dating from the 16th to the 19th century. She spent a good amount of time admiring the works of Ingres, Rubens, and Boucher, immersing herself in the world of French art.

We learned that Joan of Arc visited the Chateau in 1429 to receive a blessing from the Archbishop of Reims before leading her army against the English. It added another layer to the historical significance of the place.


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

Evening Reflections and Culinary Delights

After a full day of exploring châteaux, we were ready for a relaxing evening. We decided to try Bar Le Corsaire for a pre-dinner drink. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed sipping on some local wines while soaking in the ambiance.

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurant Le Château de Pray, a Michelin-starred establishment near Amboise. The restaurant is set in a medieval castle, and the ambiance was truly magical. We started with some delicious amuse-bouches, followed by a selection of French delicacies. The food was exquisitely prepared, and the service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end a day of royal grandeur.


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

As we drove back to our bed and breakfast, I reflected on the day's adventures. Cheverny and Blois were two very different châteaux, each with its own unique charm and history. Cheverny impressed me with its classical elegance and Tintin connection, while Blois captivated me with its architectural diversity and royal history. Together, they offered a comprehensive glimpse into the Loire Valley's rich cultural heritage.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Château de Chaumont and Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire. I’m particularly excited about the Domaine, as I’ve heard it features stunning gardens and contemporary art installations. Before that, we’ll have breakfast at Auberge Pom'Poire. And, if we have time, maybe a little shopping at Centre Commercial Shop'in Mundo'.

Back at our B&B, I realized I had forgotten my portable phone charger. That's definitely going on my essentials list for future trips. Also, with the weather being somewhat unpredictable, packing rain jackets would have been a good idea. Oh well, live and learn!

It's moments like these, surrounded by family and immersed in history, that make travel so rewarding. The Loire Valley continues to surprise and delight, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.