Crédits : Charlène Campos. Translation: Jill Harry. Pictures: Sybarite, Sophie Manuel, Dorian Mongel, Laurent Alvarez, Sabine Sevrin, Ramon Boersbroek
Escape
Les Sources de Cheverny
A real testimonial to the French art of living, the Château de Cheverny has been in the hands of the same family for more than six centuries. It is also the first château in the Loire to have opened its doors to the public, in 1922. Visiting the castle in its English-style park with magnificent gardens cannot fail to enchant you. Not forgetting its kennels, as the Domaine de Cheverny is a high temple of hunting.
Pursue your immersion in the History of France by visiting the Château de Troussay (5 mins.), deemed to be the smallest castle in the Loire. Then set off for the Château de Chambord (25 mins.) to discover its majestic double staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci, and finally the royal Château de Blois (20 mins.) to admire the diversity of its architectural styles.
It was not by chance that this region became known as "the Garden of France" as long ago as the 15th century. Today, Le Val de Loire hosts about 30 parks and gardens bearing the "Remarkable Garden" label. They include those of the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire (25 mins.) which stages the International Garden Festival each year, those of the Château de Chenonceau (40 mins.) and the Domaine de Poulaines (50 mins.). Prestigious or lesser-known, they are always delightful for a leisurely walk.
Part of UNESCO's World Heritage, Le Val de Loire also stands out for its picturesque villages. A good number of them are also listed among "Les Petites Cités de Caractère" or "Les plus Beaux Villages de France". While staying in Cheverny, don't miss out on visiting Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire (30 mins.), Montrésor or Lavardin (1 hour) to explore their rich heritage.
Thanks to its wine, cheeses, fruit, vegetables and many specialities, Le Val de Loire is paradise for gourmets. Not far from Les Sources de Cheverny, must addresses include La Maison des Vins, La Chocolaterie Max Vauché (Bracieux) and the Atelier de Biscuits et Gâteaux Saint-Michel (Le Controis-en-Sologne). And if you happen to be in the region in autumn, treat yourself to mushroom picking in the forest!
In the summer season, head for the Baignade Naturelle du Grand Chambord (15 mins.) to enjoy a few well-deserved laps and a sun-bathing session in this well-preserved environment. Or try your hand at canoeing or kayaking along the Loire to discover the royal river differently, or even fishing in the Canal du Cosson in Chambord!
