Postcard from the Château of Villandry

A stunning Renaissance castle with famous gardens, in the Loire Valley.

Last weekend, Marc and I escaped to the Loire Valley for a few days of castle-hopping and relaxation. The Loire Valley, just a little more than three-hour drive from our hometown, is a treasure trove of history, beauty, and yes… hundreds of Châteaux.

For me, this region is steeped in nostalgia. As a child, my parents often brought me here on family vacations, touring castle after castle. I must admit though, that back then, I wasn’t exactly enthralled. What child loves listening to the intricacies of Renaissance architecture? But, as they say, age brings perspective. Last year, Marc and I revisited the Loire Valley with fresh eyes. We toured the castles of Cheverny, Chambord, Chenonceau and Blois, and we were instantly hooked. This year, we couldn’t resist returning to explore more.