Discover the Loire Valley: A Traveler’s Guide
The Loire Valley has long captured the attention of many travelers. This region is renowned for its breathtaking palatial châteaux, with over 300 scattered across a verdant landscape that stretches nearly 300 km from Orleans to Nantes in the Loire River basin. The Loire River, along with its winding tributaries, courses through expansive areas of century-old vines, ancient forests, and stunning Renaissance gardens that accompany the region’s majestic castles. Numerous picture-postcard towns and villages, many dating back hundreds of years, can be found nestled along these riverbanks and amidst the vineyards.
In this idyllic landscape characterized by rich history, arts, gastronomy, and wine, tradition meets a wave of new energy transforming the region. Exciting new hotels, including a future Six Senses hotel set to open as part of Les Bordes Estate, blend the unique heritage and natural beauty of the region with contemporary design and top-tier culinary offerings. Young winemakers are reinterpreting the region’s grape varieties, and a thriving contemporary art scene hosts numerous events throughout the year.
This renewal attracts a broader demographic of domestic and international travelers eager to explore the new developments in this extraordinarily picturesque area. The rich history that grants the region its nickname, France’s Valley of Kings—especially significant in 2023, marking the 600th anniversary of King Louis XI’s birth—has drawn increased global attention. This guide will help you uncover the must-see spots and exciting dining experiences in this enchanting region.
Where to Stay in the Loire Valley
Loire Valley Lodges
A private forest spanning 750 acres serves as the backdrop for this modern retreat. Contemporary lodges are hidden within the ancient trees, with a historic farmhouse serving as the hub. This inviting space features dining areas, a lounge, and a bar, surrounded by wild gardens, a swimming pool, and the Bee Lodge for spa therapies. Designed by different artists or designers, each of the 18 treehouse lodges is equipped with terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows, maximizing forest views. Breakfast is delivered in a hamper, which guests hoist up to their terrace via a rope pulley, while refined plates highlighting local ingredients are served in the gourmet restaurant, Ardent. The innovative seasonal Asperatus restaurant features rotating top chefs in residence. Additionally, the Bee Lodge offers spa treatments, and visitors can engage in various experiences such as cycling and forest bathing.
Address: Loire Valley Lodges, La Duporterie, 37320 Esvres-sur-Indre, France
Les Sources de Cheverny
Les Sources de Cheverny, created by Alice and Jerome Tourbier—the duo behind Les Sources de Caudalie in Bordeaux—merges nature with a focus on food, wine, and wellness. Nestled within a comprehensive 110-acre estate are modern cabins, traditional stone houses, and the historical Château du Breuil, which houses 49 rooms and suites of varying styles. Drawing on the area’s heritage and natural setting, each area boasts a unique aesthetic combining shades of green with either antique or Scandi-style furnishings. Dining options include Le Favori, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exquisite culinary creations by chef Frédéric Calmels, and the bistro, L’Auberge, which emphasizes local and estate-sourced ingredients. The estate’s wellness experience centers around The Spa by Caudalie, housed in a striking wooden structure designed by architect Yves Collet, featuring a pool with forest views, a thermal bath, hammam, and treatment rooms offering exclusive vinotherapy spa treatments. Guests can enjoy hours soaking in the estate’s oak barrel hot tub or outdoor pool, participating in yoga sessions, or exploring nearby attractions.
