Family Adventure in the Loire Valley: A Journey Through History and Nature

A Day of Elegance and Innovation

Today was a day where history, art, and nature intertwined seamlessly, creating an experience that felt straight out of a fairytale. The Loire Valley continues to enchant us with its stunning châteaux and rich cultural heritage. I was particularly excited to see Château de Chenonceau, with its unique architecture spanning the Cher River, and to delve into the world of Leonardo da Vinci at Château du Clos Lucé.


Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant le 36. The fresh pastries and strong coffee were the perfect start before embarking on our journey to Château de Chenonceau. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of blooming flowers, a reminder of why I love spring so much. As a floral designer, I couldn't wait to see the gardens at Chenonceau, which I had heard were meticulously maintained and bursting with color.


Explore the enchanting Château de Chenonceau, a stunning castle in the Loire Valley renowned for its rich history, beautiful gardens, and architectural elegance.

As we approached Château de Chenonceau, its elegance was immediately striking. Spanning the Cher River, the château seemed to float on the water, its reflection shimmering in the morning light. Sophie was mesmerized, and even Andreas, who usually focuses on the historical aspects, couldn't help but admire the architectural beauty. We decided to start our visit with the gardens, and I was in floral heaven. The variety of flowers, from classic French roses to vibrant tulips, was breathtaking. I took numerous photos, mentally cataloging color combinations and design ideas for future arrangements. It's moments like these that remind me why I chose floral design – the endless inspiration that nature provides.


Inside the château, we were transported back in time. Each room was filled with antique furniture, tapestries, and paintings, telling stories of the noble families who once called Chenonceau home. The history of the women who influenced the château, such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, was particularly fascinating. Their distinct styles and contributions are still evident in the château's design and gardens today.

The beauty of the Loire Valley lies not only in its grand châteaux but also in the stories and lives that have shaped them.

After a morning of exploring Chenonceau, we were ready for lunch. Auberge Pom'Poire, with its rustic charm and traditional French cuisine, was the perfect spot. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring local specialties and discussing our favorite parts of the château. Sophie, always the adventurous one, tried escargots for the first time and, surprisingly, enjoyed them! Andreas and I opted for a classic coq au vin, which was rich and flavorful. The ambiance of the auberge was warm and inviting, making it a memorable part of our day.


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

In the afternoon, we drove to Château du Clos Lucé, the final home of Leonardo da Vinci. I was eager to see where this Renaissance genius spent his last years and to learn more about his inventions and artistic endeavors. As we walked through the château, we were immersed in da Vinci's world. His living quarters were preserved, giving us a glimpse into his daily life. The models of his inventions, displayed throughout the château and gardens, were truly remarkable. Sophie was particularly intrigued by the flying machines, and Andreas was impressed by the engineering ingenuity. I found myself drawn to his artistic sketches, admiring his attention to detail and innovative techniques.


Explore the enchanting Château du Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci, where art, history, and nature converge in beautiful Amboise.

The gardens at Clos Lucé were just as fascinating as the château itself. Walking through the grounds, we discovered full-scale models of da Vinci's inventions, bringing his ideas to life. It was incredible to see how his concepts, conceived centuries ago, still resonate today. The blend of art, science, and nature at Clos Lucé was truly inspiring.


Before dinner, we stopped at Un Coin de France Sarl, a charming local shop. I couldn't resist picking up a few lavender sachets and some locally made honey. These little treasures are perfect reminders of our time in the Loire Valley. Sophie found a beautiful watercolor painting of Chenonceau, which she plans to hang in her room.


Explore culinary treasures at Un Coin de France Sarl, a kitchen supply store in the heart of Amboise, offering quality tools for every chef.

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurant Le Château de Pray, known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning views of the Loire River. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day. We savored each dish, from the delicate appetizers to the decadent desserts, while watching the sunset over the river. The ambiance was romantic and serene, making it a truly special evening.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Château Royal d'Amboise and Château Gaillard. I'm excited to explore more of the Loire Valley's rich history and architectural wonders. We'll also stop by Bar Café Chaud for a relaxing drink in the evening. Each day here is a new adventure, filled with beauty, history, and unforgettable moments. I am so glad we decided to take this trip as a family, creating memories that we will cherish for years to come.


As I reflect on today, I'm struck by the seamless blend of elegance and innovation that defines the Loire Valley. From the graceful architecture of Chenonceau to the ingenious inventions of da Vinci, this region is a testament to human creativity and the enduring power of beauty. It's a place where history comes alive, and where every corner holds a new discovery. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and to capture these moments in my blog. It’s the best way to keep the memories alive, even when we’re back home in Bonn. And who knows, maybe this trip will inspire a new floral arrangement or two!


This trip has also made me realize how much I appreciate having Andreas and Sophie with me. Andreas, with his keen interest in history, always adds depth to our explorations. And Sophie, with her youthful enthusiasm, keeps things fun and exciting. Traveling together as a family is truly special, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. As we continue our journey through the Loire Valley, I look forward to more adventures, more discoveries, and more cherished memories.