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

Echoes of the Past

Today felt like stepping directly into the pages of a history book. The Loire Valley continues to enchant us with its timeless beauty and stories etched in stone. Andreas, Sophie, and I spent the day exploring two very different, yet equally captivating châteaux, each with its own unique charm and tales to tell. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family, sharing these experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Auberge du Prieuré. The fresh pastries and strong coffee were the perfect start to a day of exploration. I especially enjoyed the homemade jams, a taste of the local flavors that I always appreciate. After breakfast, we set off for Château de Langeais, its imposing silhouette visible from afar.


Explore the enchanting Château de Langeais, a stunning medieval castle in the heart of the Loire Valley, rich in history and breathtaking architecture.
As we approached Château de Langeais, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Its medieval architecture, complete with a working drawbridge, transported me back to the 15th century. The exterior is undeniably imposing, a testament to its defensive purpose. Inside, however, a different story unfolded. The interior façades revealed a Renaissance influence, showcasing the shift from fortress to residence. The contrast was striking and fascinating.

We wandered through the richly furnished rooms, each one offering a glimpse into the lives of the noble families who once called this château home. The tapestries were particularly impressive, intricate works of art that depicted scenes from daily life and historical events. I found myself lingering in the wedding chamber, imagining the momentous occasion when Charles VIII married Anne of Brittany here in 1491, a union that marked the beginning of Brittany's attachment to the Kingdom of France. It's surreal to stand in a place where such pivotal events unfolded.

History is not just a collection of dates and names; it's a tapestry woven with the threads of human experience.

The gardens of Langeais offered a different kind of beauty. We strolled through the manicured lawns and admired the vibrant flowerbeds, a welcome contrast to the stone walls of the château. From the belvedere, we were treated to panoramic views of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was a breathtaking sight, the rolling hills and meandering river stretching out before us. I made a mental note to try and capture this view in a floral arrangement when I returned home; the colors and textures were truly inspiring.

After immersing ourselves in the medieval grandeur of Langeais, we drove to Château de l'Islette, a smaller, more intimate château nestled on the banks of the Indre River. This château is known for its romantic history, having served as the backdrop for the passionate love affair between Rodin and Camille Claudel. As a floral designer, I am always drawn to places with a strong artistic connection.


Experience the charm of Château de l'Islette, a stunning Renaissance castle surrounded by beautiful gardens in the heart of the Loire Valley.
The setting of Château de l'Islette is idyllic. The river embraces the château, creating a sense of tranquility and seclusion. We rented a rowboat and glided along the water, admiring the château from a different perspective. Sophie, ever the adventurous one, insisted on trying to steer, resulting in a few near-collisions with the riverbank and much laughter. These are the moments I cherish most about traveling with my family.

Inside, Château de l'Islette felt more like a home than a museum. The current owners still reside here, and their personal touches added a sense of warmth and authenticity. We explored the main room and the chapel, admiring the pictorial decorations that adorned the walls. It was fascinating to see how history and modernity blended seamlessly in this 21st-century Loire château.

One of the highlights of our visit was discovering that Camille Claudel sculpted “La Petite Châtelaine” here, and a bronze reproduction is on display. Knowing that such a talented artist found inspiration in this place made it even more special. I could almost imagine her sitting by the riverbank, capturing the beauty of the château and its surroundings in her sculptures.

For lunch, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Auberge Pom'Poire in Azay-le-Rideau. Emilie and Chef Bastien Gillet are at the helm of the Auberge, and they are committed to using regional products. The restaurant is surrounded by family orchards and gardens, and the chef's dishes reflect the flavors of the Loire Valley. I opted for the carte blanche menu, trusting the chef to surprise me with his culinary creations. Each course was a work of art, a testament to Chef Gillet's creativity and skill.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge Pom'Poire in Azay-le-Rideau—a perfect blend of fine dining and cozy hospitality.
After our delightful lunch, we returned to Langeais, where we decided to unwind at Le Shaker, a local bar known for its cocktails. Andreas and I enjoyed a couple of expertly crafted drinks while Sophie sipped on a refreshing fruit juice. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring châteaux and soaking up the local atmosphere.


Experience the best of tapas and local wines at Le Shaker in Amboise, where culinary delights meet a charming riverside atmosphere.
Tomorrow, we're off to Blois, where we'll visit the Royal Château and the Blois Cathedral. I'm particularly excited to see the architecture of the Royal Château, which I've read is a stunning example of French Renaissance design. I'm also looking forward to exploring the town of Blois itself, discovering its hidden gems and soaking up its unique atmosphere. We plan to have breakfast at Restaurant Le Château de Pray and lunch at Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte, so we'll be sure to sample the local cuisine.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Loire Valley with my family. These are the moments that make life truly special, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The Loire Valley continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a place where history comes alive, where art and nature intertwine, and where family memories are made.