Family Adventure in the Loire Valley: Castles and Countryside

Enchantment in the Loire Valley

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of the Loire Valley's unique charm. From exploring a fairytale castle with whimsical gardens to stepping into the past in a troglodyte village, it was an experience that truly transported us. Zofia was particularly thrilled, and even Katarzyna, ever the librarian, found herself captivated by the stories etched into the very stones around us.



Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant Le Château de Pray. The Michelin-starred establishment certainly lived up to its reputation. The service was impeccable, and the food was delicious. It was a wonderful way to start a day filled with exploration. We fueled up for the day ahead, ready to embrace the Loire Valley's wonders.

A Fairytale at Château de Rivau

Our first stop was the enchanting Château de Rivau. As we approached, I was immediately struck by its fairytale-like appearance. The castle, with its medieval origins, stood proudly against the clear blue sky. It felt like stepping into a storybook, and I could see the wonder in Zofia's eyes as we walked through the gates. The history of the place is palpable; it's easy to imagine knights and nobles walking the same grounds centuries ago. The castle seamlessly blends its historical heritage with a contemporary passion for art and garden design.


The gardens at Rivau are truly something special. They aren't your typical manicured lawns and symmetrical flowerbeds. Instead, they're a whimsical collection of themed gardens, each with its own unique character. We wandered through the fragrant rose garden, the quirky vegetable garden (Gargantua's garden), and the mysterious secret garden. Zofia was particularly fascinated by the Alice in Wonderland-inspired garden, complete with oversized chess pieces and curious sculptures. The blend of history, art, and nature made Château de Rivau a feast for the senses. I even managed to snap a few photos that I think will look great printed and hung up in our living room back in Potsdam. The juxtaposition of the ancient architecture with the modern art installations was particularly striking.

The Château de Rivau is more than just a castle; it's a living fairytale where history, art, and nature intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

Lunch Amidst History

For lunch, we stopped at Auberge du Prieuré. It was a charming spot with a menu that highlighted local produce. I opted for a traditional Loire Valley dish, while Katarzyna enjoyed a fresh salad. Zofia, of course, went for the classic French fries, which she declared were the best she'd ever had. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming, and it was the perfect place to recharge before our next adventure. I appreciated the emphasis on local ingredients; it's always great to support regional farmers and producers. The simple, hearty meal was exactly what we needed.

Stepping Back in Time at Rochemenier Village Troglodytique

After lunch, we ventured to Rochemenier Village Troglodytique, a troglodyte village that offered a fascinating glimpse into the past. I had read about these cave dwellings before, but seeing them in person was a completely different experience. These underground homes, carved into the soft rock, were inhabited by farmers and their families for centuries. As we explored the village, we wandered through the old farmhouses, complete with antique furniture and tools. It felt as if the inhabitants had just stepped out for a moment, leaving their lives frozen in time. Zofia was amazed by the underground chapel, a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who lived here. The temperature inside the caves was noticeably cooler, a welcome respite from the warm spring day. It's incredible to think that people once lived and worked in these conditions, finding shelter and community within the earth itself. It was a stark reminder of how different life was not so long ago.

Evening Reflections and Tomorrow's Plans

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Le Vieux Château bar/brasserie/terrasse in Tours. We enjoyed some refreshing drinks and reflected on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was lively, and it was a great way to soak in the local culture. I enjoyed a local beer while Katarzyna sipped on a glass of wine. Zofia, of course, opted for a fizzy lemonade. The bar had a great vibe, and it was clear that it was a popular spot with locals.


Tomorrow, we're heading to Château Gaillard and Château & Thermes de Saint-Denis sur Loire. I'm particularly excited to see Château Gaillard, as I've read about its unique Italian Renaissance architecture. We will also have breakfast at Auberge Pom'Poire, lunch at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte and dinner at Restaurant Le Château de Pray, which I am very much looking forward to. And of course, we'll be stopping by La Boîte A Couture to pick up some souvenirs. It promises to be another day filled with history, culture, and delicious food.


As I sit here writing this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. The Loire Valley has a way of captivating you with its beauty and charm. It's a place where history comes alive, and where every corner holds a new discovery. I'm so glad that I could share this with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come. And who knows, maybe one day we'll even return to explore more of this magical region. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.


The International Garden Festival at Chaumont-sur-Loire Château is also taking place this month, maybe we can visit it again!