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Categories: Loire Valley, Off the Beaten Track in France
Are you looking for hidden gems in the Loire Valley? There are so many wonderful chateaux along the Loire that it's hard to choose where to go beyond the famous ones. In this episode of the Join Us in France podcast, host Annie Sargent chats with Paul Gulesserian about his recent trip to the Loire Valley. Together, they dive into the stunning but lesser-known châteaux that made his visit unforgettable. If you're searching for insider tips, unique experiences, and hidden gems in the Loire Valley, this episode is for you!
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Paul, an American living in France for six years, has visited many châteaux, but on this trip, he set out to explore the ones that are often overlooked. His love for French history, wine, and culture shines through as he shares highlights from his journey.
Recommended in this episode
Hotel Le Domaine de Mestré in a town called Fontevrault L'Abbaye: "I recently stayed at this delightful property, which felt like a renovated old farm complex with several different buildings, all tastefully updated in a classic French country style. The shared family room was cozy, and it was nice to have a restaurant on-site where we enjoyed a lovely dinner one night. The rooms were beautifully renovated with super comfy beds and stylish decor. While there was no TV in the room, we didn’t miss it at all—it really helped us disconnect and relax. One of the highlights was the indoor pool, complete with a sauna and hot tub, which made for a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring."
Le Pot de Lapin restaurant (Saumur)
Le Charbon restaurant (Chinon)
More hotels to consider in this area
Discovering Château de Saumur
Paul and his husband Florian started their trip in Saumur, a charming town in the Loire Valley known for its wines and equestrian heritage. The Château de Saumur, perched high above the Loire River, offers stunning views. Inside, Paul was impressed by the exhibits on decorative arts and horses, making it a must-visit for those who love French history with a twist.
Exploring the Underground at Château de Brézé
Next on their list was the Château de Brézé, a hidden gem with a unique feature: an entire underground fortress beneath the château. Paul describes this experience as unlike anything he'd seen before. He was fascinated by the tunnels, used for everything from wine-making to sheltering horses. The "château under a château" is ideal for visitors seeking something off the beaten path.
Château de Montreuil-Bellay: Stunning Gardens and Serendipity
At Château de Montreuil-Bellay, Paul and Florian were struck by the château's meticulously manicured gardens. While enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, they also had a memorable encounter involving a bird—proof that even the unexpected can make for a great story! The peaceful garden and charming location make this château a perfect stop for those looking to relax in nature.
Château de Riveau: Gardens and Modern Art
For Paul, Château de Riveau stood out for its blend of history, art, and nature. Not only is the château itself a beautiful sight, but its gardens are a work of art. With lush vegetable gardens, beehives, peacocks, and modern art installations scattered throughout, this château offers a truly magical experience. Visitors who love art and nature will be in heaven here.
A Fairy Tale at Château d'Ussé
Château d'Ussé, said to be the inspiration for *Sleeping Beauty*, captured Paul's imagination. He loved seeing the fairy-tale elements come to life through the displays of mannequins and scenes from the story. This château is a hit for families and anyone with an appreciation for stories, history, and beautiful architecture.
Château de Brissac: Towering Beauty and Hidden Theater
Paul's favorite château on the trip was Château de Brissac, which towers seven stories high and boasts an impressive theater hidden on its upper floor. He marveled at its grandeur and how well-maintained the rooms were, making this a standout among Loire Valley châteaux. A wine tasting of local rosé at the château was the perfect end to the visit.
Biking and Wine Tasting in the Loire Valley
Beyond the châteaux, Paul and Florian enjoyed biking through the picturesque Loire Valley countryside. They made a stop at a local winery, Domaine des Amandiers, where they tasted a delicious rosé crément. Paul encourages visitors to take the time to explore the smaller villages, as they are often home to hidden treasures like this.
The Charm of Angers
The trip ended in Angers, a vibrant city full of history and culture. Paul recommends taking advantage of the Angers City Pass, which gives access to 25 sites for a great value. Angers is perfect for those who want to combine château visits with a lively urban experience.
Final Thoughts
Paul’s journey through the hidden gems of the Loire Valley showcases how much there is to discover beyond the well-known châteaux. Whether it’s the underground tunnels of Château de Brézé, the fairy-tale magic of Château d'Ussé, or the peaceful gardens of Château de Montreuil-Bellay, there’s something for every traveler.
Want more insider tips? Listen to the full episode for Paul’s detailed trip report and learn how you can make the most of your Loire Valley adventure.
Don't miss this episode—click play and start planning your next trip to France!
Table of Contents for this Episode
More episodes about the Loire Valley
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Discussed in this Episode
- Saumur
- Chinon
- Château de Saumur
- Château de Brézé
- Château de Montreuil-Bellay
- Château du Riveau
- Château de Montsoreau
- Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud
- Fontevraud L'Abbaye
- Château de Chinon
- Château de Langeais
- Château de l'Islette
- Château d'Ussé
- Château de Brissac
- Château de Serrant
- Angers
- Turquant
- Montsoreau
- Le Thouet River
- Loire River
- Vienne River
- Le Pot de Lapin (Saumur)
- A Charbon (Chinon)
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Transcript Guest NotesCategories: Loire Valley, Off the Beaten Track in France