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

First Day Fairytales: Chambord and Cheverny

Our Loire Valley adventure has begun, and what a start! Today was a whirlwind of architectural splendor and historical immersion, a perfect introduction to the region's enchanting atmosphere. The châteaux were even more impressive in person than in the photos. It's a joy to share these experiences with Andreas and Sophie, creating memories we'll treasure for years to come.

Our journey from Bonn was smooth, filled with anticipation as we approached the Loire Valley. The French countryside welcomed us with open arms, and the excitement in the car was palpable. After settling into our charming accommodation, we were eager to start exploring.

Our first stop was the magnificent Château de Chambord. As we approached, its grandeur was breathtaking. The sheer size of the château is astounding, and its intricate architecture is a feast for the eyes. I was immediately captivated by the French formal gardens, seamlessly linking the château and forest, restoring the majesty of the monument's distinguished facade. They had been replanted in 2017 to mirror the 18th-century design, and it was an absolute joy to stroll through them.


Discover the grandeur of Château de Chambord, an architectural marvel in the heart of France's Loire Valley, steeped in history and natural beauty.
We wandered through the many rooms open to the public, marveling at the art and history within those storied walls. Sophie was particularly fascinated by the double helix staircase, supposedly inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. Andreas, ever the history buff, was engrossed in the tales of King Francis I and the château's role as a hunting lodge. It's incredible to think that iconic works of art, like the Mona Lisa, were once hidden here during WWII. The sheer scale of the surrounding park, as big as inner Paris, was also impressive.

Chambord is more than just a castle; it's a symbol of French Renaissance, a testament to architectural ingenuity, and a window into centuries of history.

After soaking in the majesty of Chambord, we headed to Château de Cheverny. This château offered a different, yet equally captivating, experience. Cheverny has been in the same family for over six centuries, and that sense of intimate history is palpable. The classical Louis XIII style architecture is beautifully preserved, and the interiors are sumptuously decorated with original 17th-century furnishings.


Discover the enchanting Château de Cheverny, a historical gem in the Loire Valley, renowned for its stunning architecture and lush gardens.
I was particularly drawn to the tapestries and the exquisite painted ceilings. Sophie was thrilled to discover that Cheverny served as the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comic books, and we explored the permanent Tintin exhibition with great enthusiasm. It's wonderful to see how the château has embraced its connection to this beloved series.

The gardens at Cheverny were also delightful. Though early in the season, the promise of vibrant blooms was evident. I could envision the stunning display of tulips that would soon grace the landscape. As a floral designer, I appreciated the meticulous care and artistry that went into creating these outdoor spaces.

One of the unique aspects of Cheverny is its hunting tradition. The château houses around 100 hunting dogs, and while we didn't witness the feeding, just knowing they were there added to the château's distinctive character. It's amazing to think that this tradition has been maintained since the 17th century.

For lunch, we had a delightful meal at Restaurant Le Château de Pray. The good reviews are accurate. The setting was magical, and the food was exquisite. Arnaud Philippon's creations were a true delight. We sat on the terrace, soaking in the views of the Loire, and savored every bite. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on our morning adventures.


Experience exquisite French cuisine and breathtaking views at Restaurant Le Château de Pray in Amboise.
In the evening, we dined at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise. This was a gastronomique experience in a charming 18th-century setting. The building was lovely, and the presentation of each dish was a work of art. I had salmon gravlax with fennel and orange, caramelized beet purée and Espelette pepper tuile. It was delicious! The service was impeccable, adding to the overall elegance of the evening. After dinner, we strolled along the waterfront, enjoying the ambiance of Amboise at night.


Experience authentic French cuisine with stunning river views at Restaurant le 36 in Amboise – where every meal is a celebration.
Before dinner we had a quick stop at Royal Loire Valley, where I picked up a T-shirt as a souvenir. It's a great way to support local artisans and have a tangible reminder of our trip.


Explore the Royal Loire Valley: A breathtaking journey through history, stunning châteaux, and picturesque landscapes in the heart of France.
Our day began with a lovely breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The charming atmosphere and delicious food set the perfect tone for our exploration of the Loire Valley. It's a delightful place, and the service was warm and welcoming. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area.


Discover authentic French cuisine at Auberge du Prieuré in Amboise, where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.
As I sit here writing this, I'm already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures. We plan to visit Château de Villandry, famous for its stunning gardens, and the Diane de Poitiers Garden. I'm eager to see the intricate designs and learn more about the history behind these horticultural masterpieces. Andreas is looking forward to visiting Le Bar - Fleur de Loire in the evening. It sounds like a great place to unwind and enjoy a local drink.

Before drifting off to sleep, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible day. The Loire Valley has already exceeded my expectations, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's a privilege to share these experiences with my family, and I know that these memories will last a lifetime.

Goodnight from the Loire Valley!