THINGS TO DO
Visit the many fascinating Loire Valley Chateaux - Villandry, Usse, Azay-le -Rideau, Chinon, Langeais, Saumur and Chenoceau are all within easy driving distance. The Chateau de Gizeux in the local village is an easy cycle or walk away and the Chateau le Latham in Breil is also within reach by bicycle.
OUR FAVOURITE PLACES
There are many places we have visited over the years since we started visiting the Loire Valley. Here are just a few of our favourite.
We hope you enjoy them!
Our favourite places to eat....
Grand Bleu,
Saumur
Our favourite restaurant in Saumur. Perfect for fish, seafood, grills and summer salads. They also have a children's menu so the whole family can enjoy the great food. You will find it in the old town of Saumur and it has tables inside and outside during the Summer months. At busy times of the year it is advisable to ring ahead and book a table
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Le Terrier Du Chateau, Saumur
A great location with fabulous views of the Loire and the Chateau de Saumur. A tapas wine bar and restaurant. Great to sit outside and enjoy the views and the wine or equally lovely to sit inside during the Winter months.
Le Cafe Musee, Parcay
The nearest cafe/restaurant to La Croix in the village of Parcay les Pins. Run by Darren & Louise, an English couple who used to manage La Croix for us. They have regular themed nights and offer a good value meal. On a Thursday evening they hold a regular 'Fish & Chips' night, so if you are missing that English chippy tea head over to Le Cafe Musee on a Thursday.
Le Bistroglo, Turquant
Situated near to the village of Turquant this is.a perfect spot to stop if you are cycling on the Loire a Velo. The restaurant is built into the caves and is a great way to not only sample the local food and wine but to experience the troglodyte setting. In the Summer they set up seats outside and advertise that you can 'a boire, a voir, a manger'. As well as the perfect setting the food is excellent too!
Our favourite places to visit....
Maison Louis de Grenelle
One of many 'bubbly wine houses'. This one is found in the centre of Saumur and offers a tour of 'le caves' and tasting. The tour is fascinating and if you are lucky you can join one that is offered in English. The tasting session afterwards is relaxed and you are offered the opportunity to taste a variety of their bubbly wines.
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Saumur
A wander around the old town and up to see the views from the grounds around the chateau is perfectly rounded off with a relaxing drink in the square 'St Pierre' - great for a pre-dinner drink in the early evening.
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Chinon
Another lovely town for a wander, great places to stop to eat, drink and people watch. In the Summer months you can take a tour in a horse and cart or take a canoe out on the Vienne river. The stunning Chateau is also worth a visit, perched high up above the town you can walk up or take the outside lift! You are rewarded with stunning views when you reach the chateau entrance.
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Langeais
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A pretty town on the Loire. The Chateau is impressive and worth a visit. The town is really pretty with lots of places to enjoy the local cuisine and wine. The have a weekly Sunday morning market.
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