Family Adventure in the Loire Valley: Castles and Countryside

A Day of Renaissance Wonder

Today was nothing short of magical. As we continue our journey through the Loire Valley, each day seems to unveil a new layer of France's rich tapestry. Today, that layer was woven with history, art, and the intoxicating beauty of meticulously crafted gardens. It’s amazing how much there is to discover, and I’m so excited to share it all with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Auberge Pom'Poire. The reviews I had read online were spot-on; the place exuded a rustic charm that immediately made us feel at home. The breakfast spread was fantastic. Katarzyna particularly enjoyed the pastries, while Zofia couldn't get enough of the fresh fruit. I appreciated the strong coffee, which helped me prepare for a day of exploration. It's these small, intimate moments that make traveling with family so special.


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

After breakfast, we headed to Château de Chaumont, a place that has seen its share of historical figures, including Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers. Driving up to the château, I was struck by its imposing structure, perched high above the Loire River. It’s easy to imagine how this strategic location served as a defensive fortress centuries ago. The architecture is a fascinating blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, reflecting the château's evolution through different eras. Zofia was particularly fascinated by the towers and crenellations, imagining knights and princesses defending the castle walls.


Discover the enchanting Château de Chaumont, where history, art, and stunning gardens converge in the heart of the Loire Valley.

Inside, the château was filled with art and history. We explored the various rooms, each telling its own story. The tapestries were incredible, especially *La Tenture des Planètes et des Jours*, with its astrological themes. I found myself drawn to the Council Chamber, admiring the exceptional Majolica tile flooring from the 17th century. It’s details like these that really bring history to life.

The beauty of Chaumont lies not just in its stones, but in the vibrant life that blooms within its gardens.

But the real highlight of the day was the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire. This expansive area combines the château with stunning gardens and contemporary art installations. As we stepped outside, we were immediately enveloped in a world of creativity and natural beauty. The International Garden Festival was in full swing, and the theme, 'Once upon a time in the garden', was evident in every imaginative display. Each garden told a story, using plants, sculptures, and innovative designs to create a unique and immersive experience.


Explore the breathtaking gardens and historical charm of Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, a must-visit destination for art and nature lovers.

Zofia was in her element, running through the gardens, discovering hidden paths and whimsical sculptures. The park is an integral part of the regional Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire's “Arts and Nature Centre”, which is dedicated to the relationships between art and nature. The installations by contemporary artists surprised, delighted and moved us with their poetic and enchanting air. I appreciated the way the gardens blended art and nature, creating spaces that were both visually stunning and thought-provoking. Katarzyna, with her librarian's eye, was captivated by the sheer variety of plants and the creativity of the landscape designers.

We spent hours wandering through the gardens, each turn revealing a new surprise. The creativity and artistry on display were truly inspiring. It’s amazing to see how landscape designers can use plants and space to evoke emotions and tell stories. The entire Domaine felt like an open-air museum, where art and nature coexist in perfect harmony. It was hard to believe that this space transforms every year with new installations and themes. I can only imagine the dedication and vision it takes to create such a dynamic and engaging experience.

After working up an appetite exploring the Domaine, we had lunch at Restaurant le 36 in Chaumont-sur-Loire. Located at Le Choiseul Amboise, the restaurant offered a delightful culinary experience. I opted for the lunch menu, while Katarzyna chose a la carte. The food was exquisite, with each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The restaurant is temporarily closed for a complete renovation and will be welcoming guests back in 2026. I was very happy we got to experience it before the temporary closure.


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

In the late afternoon, we decided to do a little shopping at Centre Commercial Shop'in Mundo'. I needed to pick up a new portable phone charger, having forgotten mine in Potsdam. The shopping center had a good variety of stores, and we managed to find everything we needed. Zofia was thrilled to find a new book at one of the shops, while Katarzyna picked up some local delicacies to take back home.


Discover the vibrant fashion scene at Centre Commercial Shop'in Mundo' in La Celle-sous-Gouzon, where style meets comfort for every shopper.

For dinner, we ventured to Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte. The drive itself was lovely, winding through the picturesque countryside. The restaurant is part of the Château de Rochecotte, a historic castle surrounded by vineyards. The setting was incredibly romantic, with stunning views of the Loire Valley. The food was delicious, although the service was a bit slow. Nevertheless, the ambiance more than made up for it. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors of the region and reflecting on the day's adventures.


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

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared. Chaumont had exceeded all expectations, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and natural beauty. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Château de Rivau and Rochemenier Village Troglodytique. I’m looking forward to exploring these new sites and discovering more of the Loire Valley's hidden gems. I’ve heard that Château de Rivau has a particularly enchanting garden, and I’m eager to see what it has to offer. The troglodyte village should provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's unique architectural history.

Before heading back to our charming bed and breakfast, we stopped by Le Vieux Château bar/brasserie/terrasse for a nightcap. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day, sipping local wine and enjoying the quiet ambiance of the Loire Valley. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Until then, *Do widzenia* from the Loire Valley!