Curator’s statement
The Loire Valley holds a deeply personal place in my heart—it’s where I celebrated my 40th birthday surrounded by my five closest friends, who flew in from around the world to be there. We spent our days cycling through vineyards, sipping crisp sauvignon blanc, wandering historic châteaux, and picnicking in wildflower fields, before unwinding by the fire in plush robes after afternoons at the spa. It was the perfect balance of activity and indulgence, discovery and reconnection. For me, the Loire embodies what meaningful travel should feel like: beautiful, grounding, and shared.
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Things to do in the Loire Valley
Chateau de Chenonceau
Bike riding through Cheverny
There’s nothing more Loire than biking quiet country lanes around Cheverny, passing vineyards, sunflower fields, and storybook villages. The terrain is gentle and ideal for a leisurely ride with wine stops along the way—equal parts charming and invigorating.
Private wine tastings in the Loire
The Loire is the birthplace of some of France’s most elegant sauvignon blanc and chenin blanc. I love arranging intimate tastings with small producers where you can sip crisp whites in limestone cellars and learn directly from the winemakers.
Spa afternoons at a château hotel
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than retreating to a château spa for a massage, sauna, or quiet time by the fire in a plush robe. The Loire does understated luxury beautifully—restorative, elegant, and deeply calming.
Château visits with a curated picnic
The Loire is known as the “Garden of France,” and wandering its historic châteaux feels like stepping into another era. I love pairing a morning château visit with a curated picnic of local cheeses, baguettes, and wine enjoyed in the gardens or nearby wildflower fields.
Market visits & cooking moments
A morning at a local market gathering goat cheese, fresh produce, and pastries brings the region to life. For those who love immersive experiences, a private cooking class in a countryside home makes for a memorable afternoon.
Golden hour along the Loire River
Evenings in the Loire are slow and golden. A simple riverside walk or aperitif at sunset captures the quiet magic that makes this region feel so restorative.
Places to eat & drink in the Loire Valley
Le Favori: Fine dining at Les Sources de Cheverny
A Michelin-starred restaurant inside Les Sources de Cheverny celebrating Loire terroir with seasonal, locally inspired tasting menus and elegant presentations that pair beautifully with the estate’s wines.
Restaurant Les Arpents: Refined French bistro (Amboise)
One of the region’s most recommended tables, known for inventive French cuisine and excellent local wine pairings—perfect for a memorable lunch or dinner after château exploring.
de Loire & d'Ailleurs: Riverside French fare (Gennes-Val-de-Loire)
A beloved local favorite with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, offering seasonal Loire Valley classics with thoughtful preparation and fresh regional ingredients.
La Madeleine de Proust: Charming local bistro (Chaumont-sur-Loire)
A delightful stop for classic French dishes with a seasonal touch—perfect for a casual lunch or dinner after visiting nearby gardens or château grounds.
Asperatus: Creative dining at Loire Valley Lodges (Esvres)
Beautifully set within a forested property, this spot pairs imaginative cuisine with a serene environment—ideal for an elevated yet cozy meal that feels deeply connected to the land.
Need to know
Evenings are quiet; lean into it.
This isn’t Paris. Nights are slow and cozy—think candlelit dinners, fireplace lounges, and long conversations over wine. It’s part of what makes the Loire so restorative.
You’ll want a car.
While biking is wonderful locally, the Loire Valley is spread out. Renting a car allows flexibility to explore smaller villages, hidden wineries, and countryside restaurants that aren’t accessible by train.
Go beyond the big-name châteaux.
Yes, visit icons like Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord, but balance them with smaller estates like Château de Cheverny for a more intimate experience. The magic of the Loire is in the contrast between grandeur and quiet charm.
Travel Advisor
Deirdre Schwiring
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