A few of my favorite moments from our recent trip to the Loire Valley. This time around, we focused on being more present in the moment with our family, stopped working, and even minimized using our phones and cameras. The result is one of our happiest experiences as a family.

If you're craving a break from the hustle and bustle of Paris and are daydreaming about castles, vineyards, and charming villages, pack your bags and head straight to the heart of France—the magnificent Loire Valley. Nestled along the banks of the Loire River, this region is a treasure trove of history, culture, and gastronomy.

The best part yet: it’s just a short car or train ride away from Paris. The last time we visited, we found out during the trip that we were expecting Dante, so it’s special to come back here with the boys almost five years later.

Here's your passport to an unforgettable yet simple Loire Valley adventure with some laid-back tips and recommendations.

Castle Hopping

Prepare to be transported to a fairytale world as you embark on a castle-hopping spree. The Loire Valley boasts some of the most stunning châteaux in the world. Don't miss the iconic Château de Chambord – its Renaissance architecture will leave you awe-struck. For a more intimate experience, explore the charming Château de Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the River Cher.

On this trip, we only wanted to see our favorite castles—Amboise, Chambord, and Chenonceau. If you want to make your trip longer, you should also see Blois, Villandry, and Cheverny.

For more information on Blois and Villandry, here is our first trip. The one thing we didn’t expect is that it’s not possible to buy park-only tickets on any of the sites, so calculate around €15 per adult per ticket per each château!

Two-Wheeled Exploration

The Loire Valley is a cyclist's dream come true. Grab a bike and cruise through the picturesque vineyards and quaint villages. The well-marked cycling trails provide a leisurely way to absorb the beauty of the valley (more on biking below). Stop by local bakeries for fresh pastries, and remember, it's not a race—take your time and savor the journey.

Wine, Dine, Repeat

Indulge your taste buds. This region is renowned for its delectable wines and sumptuous cuisine. Sip on a glass of crisp Sancerre while overlooking the vineyards or enjoy a leisurely meal featuring local specialties like goat cheese, rillettes, and of course, escargot. Bon appétit!

Market Magic

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by exploring the lively markets. From fresh produce to handmade crafts, the markets in towns like Tours and Amboise offer a delightful array of goods. Pick up some local cheese, a baguette, and a bottle of wine for an impromptu picnic along the riverbanks.

River Romance

Speaking of riverbanks, don't forget to take a leisurely stroll along the Loire River. Whether you're catching a sunrise or sunset, the views are nothing short of magical. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and let the gentle flow of the river set the pace for a serene and romantic evening.

Hidden Gems

Venture off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems. Explore the troglodyte villages carved into the limestone cliffs, or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscapes.

For our stay, we chose a family house at @huttopiaeurope Les Chateaux and absolutely loved it! We are outdoorsy but still enjoy the comfort of a warm bed. The houses are equipped with showers and a full kitchen. Our humble hidden gem—a covered warm water swimming pool on the property—made Dante's vacation the best one ever!

Festival Fever & Biking

Check the calendar before you go—the Loire Valley hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. From jazz and classical music to wine and food celebrations, these events add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. Join in the festivities and connect with the locals for an authentic experience.

Another thing we did differently this time is we rented a couple of bicycles because the Loire has an amazing infrastructure for cyclists. We have bikes of our own, but we do not have a way to take them with us in our car. Rental prices for bicycles are cheap, and there are rental stores pretty much everywhere. Huttopia has their own fleet of bikes for rent - prices were €11 for classic bikes for the full day and €30 for the electric. There is a €350 deposit for the e-bike and €90 for the classic bike. These include helmets if needed, and you can add child seats as well. Big suggestion though, if you're not used to biking at all, go for e-Bikes. Anastasia had a hard time, and that is how I ended up taking both boys with me. For more information of biking in the Loire, visit Loire by Bike (English).

So there you have it, your guide to a laid-back escapade in the Loire Valley for a little French joie de vivre. These photos are from my favorite castle: Chateau de Chenonceau @chateau_chenonceau. Pretty much every room had amazing fresh flower arrangements that added so much to the atmosphere.

Looking back at these photos, I can’t help but smile. That’s my fairytale right there, somewhere between all the hugs and kisses from my boys surrounded by this timeless and peaceful beauty.

MAKE PARIS AN EXPERIENCE TO REMEMBER

Now let's go create those memories.

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