Family Adventure in the Loire Valley: Castles and Countryside

Saumur's Surprises: A Royal Castle and a World of Mushrooms

Today was all about embracing the unexpected in the Loire Valley. We started with a majestic castle and ended up in a fascinating underground world of mushrooms. It’s amazing how much history and unique experiences can be packed into a single day, especially when you’re exploring with family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. I must admit, the charm of this place is undeniable. It felt like stepping back in time, and the traditional French breakfast was a perfect start to our day of exploration. Zofia was particularly excited about the croissants, and Katarzyna enjoyed the strong French coffee. Fuelled up, we set off to conquer the Château de Saumur. As an automotive mechatronics technician, I always appreciate impressive engineering, and the castle certainly didn't disappoint.


Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Château de Saumur, a captivating castle in the heart of the Loire Valley.

The Château de Saumur dominates the skyline, perched high above the town. Its history is incredible, originally built in the 10th century as a fortified stronghold. Over the centuries, it has served as a royal residence, a prison, and now a museum. Walking through its halls, I could almost hear the echoes of kings and prisoners. The architecture is fascinating, with its mix of medieval and Renaissance styles. Zofia was captivated by the miniature figurines in the Musée de la Figurine-Jouet, imagining stories about the soldiers and kings.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you never thought to ask.

One of the most interesting aspects of the château was its role as a prison. It's sobering to think about the lives of those who were confined within its walls. From political prisoners to war captives, the château has witnessed a lot of human suffering. Yet, it has also been a place of royal celebrations and artistic inspiration. The contrast is quite striking. I found myself particularly drawn to the architecture, noting the innovative design of the fortifications, especially considering they predate Vauban's work by almost a century! It's details like these that truly fascinate me. I couldn't help but imagine what it must have been like to live here during different periods of history. The views from the ramparts were stunning, offering a panoramic perspective of Saumur and the Loire River. Katarzyna enjoyed capturing photos of the picturesque scenery, while Zofia ran around pretending to be a princess defending her castle.

After immersing ourselves in royal history, we headed to Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte for lunch. The restaurant itself is part of a beautiful château, offering a refined dining experience. We opted for the Les Caprices de Dorothée menu, which included access to the swimming pool – a welcome bonus for Zofia! The food was exquisite, a true celebration of local and seasonal ingredients. I appreciated the chef's dedication to highlighting the region's culinary heritage. Katarzyna particularly enjoyed the elegant and sophisticated ambiance of the restaurant, while Zofia was thrilled about the pool.


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

With our bellies full and refreshed from the pool, we ventured into a completely different world: the Musée du Champignon. I must admit, I wasn't sure what to expect from a mushroom museum, but it turned out to be one of the most unique and fascinating experiences of the trip. Located in underground caves, the museum showcases the incredible diversity of fungi. From wild mushrooms to cultivated varieties, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the world of mycology. Zofia was particularly fascinated by the troglodyte mushroom farm, where she learned about the process of growing mushrooms in caves. It's amazing to think that these underground spaces have been used for centuries to cultivate these delicious fungi. As someone interested in sustainable living, I found the museum's emphasis on the ecological importance of mushrooms particularly compelling. It's a reminder that even the smallest organisms play a vital role in our ecosystem.


Explore the enchanting world of mushrooms at the Musée du Champignon in Saumur, where nature meets culinary delights in an engaging museum.

The Musée du Champignon was surprisingly captivating. Who knew there were so many different types of mushrooms? The troglodyte caves added an extra layer of intrigue, and Zofia loved exploring the underground tunnels. We learned about the cultivation process and the different varieties of mushrooms, some of which I'd never even heard of. It was an educational and surprisingly fun experience for the whole family. We learned that the museum houses the largest collection of mushrooms in Europe, with over 250 species on display. What I found most fascinating was the troglodyte house at the end of the tour, showcasing a collection of mushroom-themed objects from around the world. It was a quirky and unexpected highlight.

For dinner, we decided to try Auberge Pom'Poire, known for its creative cuisine and charming atmosphere. The chef's tasting menu was a culinary adventure, with each dish showcasing the flavors of the Loire Valley. The restaurant itself is located in a beautiful old building, adding to the overall ambiance. Katarzyna and I opted for the tasting menu, while Zofia enjoyed a specially prepared dish that catered to her young palate. The service was impeccable, and the staff were knowledgeable about the local wines. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge Pom'Poire in Azay-le-Rideau—a perfect blend of fine dining and cozy hospitality.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Le Shaker, a local bar known for its cocktails. I figured it would be a good opportunity to unwind and sample some of Saumur's nightlife. The atmosphere was lively, and the bartenders were skilled mixologists. I tried a few of their signature cocktails, each one a unique and flavorful creation. It was a fun way to experience a different side of Saumur. While the bar was lively, it wasn't overly crowded, making it a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a drink. The bartenders were friendly and engaging, happy to chat about the local area and recommend other places to visit. It was a great way to end the day.


Experience the best of tapas and local wines at Le Shaker in Amboise, where culinary delights meet a charming riverside atmosphere.

As I reflect on today’s adventures, I’m struck by the diversity of experiences the Loire Valley has to offer. From the grandeur of the Château de Saumur to the quirky charm of the Musée du Champignon, there’s something for everyone. And as we gear up for tomorrow, we're excited to explore Château de Chenonceau and Château du Clos Lucé, with planned stops at Restaurant Le Château de Pray for breakfast, Restaurant le 36 for lunch and Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte for dinner. Also, we are planning to visit Un Coin de France Sarl to buy some souvenirs.

“Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.”

It’s these unexpected discoveries that make travel so rewarding. I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. As someone who appreciates both history and innovation, I found Saumur to be a perfect blend of the old and the new. The city's rich heritage is evident in its architecture and museums, while its vibrant culinary scene and nightlife offer a modern twist. It's a destination that appeals to all the senses. Driving through the French countryside, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages create a picturesque landscape that is both relaxing and inspiring. It's a reminder that sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones that allow you to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. Back at our cozy bed and breakfast, I’m already looking forward to what tomorrow will bring. The Loire Valley continues to surprise and delight, and I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems we’ll uncover.

Tonight, as I write this, I'm filled with a sense of contentment. The Loire Valley has a way of captivating you, drawing you into its rich history and natural beauty. It's a place where you can disconnect from the stresses of everyday life and reconnect with what truly matters: family, adventure, and the joy of discovery. And as I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of the châteaux and vineyards that await us tomorrow. I am very excited about what is coming!