Family of 4 (Mom Dad & 2 young teens) will be driving from Paris to Sarlat summer 2013 but in between would like to stop and spend 2 nights in the Loire region to explore the castles/region. Was looking at a couple of places in Blois but we are open to suggestions. Any recommendations of towns &/or hotels to stay at for 2 nights (if possible, would prefer something with character and a pool) - thanks!
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
A little further to the west is Azay le Rideau and this chambre d'hote/winery: http://www.laulee.com/. I haven't stayed there, but am planning to do so next Spring. Closer to Blois is Cheverny, which would be a good choice and convenient to several chateaus.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
RLM I made a reservation at this place but we had to rearrange trip and cancel and I am so sad as it seemed awesome! The people were nice to deal with( we emailed back and forth a few times) the place is adorable, and has a pool! It is well reviewed on tripadvisor.com also. ITs called La Roseraie . It has a family room too! www.hotel-chenonceau.com/
Posted by
Vancouver, Washington, United States
59 posts
It's been almost a decade ago since my travels to the Loire Valley, but I still recall approaching Amboise at night, all lit up in pink toned lights....I believe the castle there is famous because da Vinci spent time there (?)
Posted by
OP
North Vancouver, BC, CANADA
15 posts
Thanks for the suggestions everyone! Prior to posting my question, I was checking out La Roseraie. I thought it looked great but wanted to see if any had any other suggestions. Thanks for www.laule.com as well, looking for something with more character & a pool. Travelling in August can get hot so a pool will be a great way to end the day after exploring chateaus all day...especially with 2 kids! Has anyone ever stayed at Le Plessis in Blois?? I've sent a couple of emails via their online 'Contact Us' but have not heard back. It looks amazing and would love to stay there.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
La Roseraie in Chenaceaux looked interesting and has had many supporters on this site. I would definitely consider going there. We have stayed and eaten at Le Bon Laboriuer in Chenanceaux and throughly enjoyed it. Would recommend it highly. Both have the advantage of being in reasonable walking distance of the chateaux (although drivng is conveneient)
Posted by
343 posts
We stayed in Amboise at Le Manoir St. Thomas for 2 nights and really enjoyed it. Amboise is near many of the chateaus, and is a lovely town.
Posted by
Shawnee mission, Ks
7 posts
Just spent 2 nights in Amboise at the lovely Clos d'Amboise. It's full of charm and has a lovely garden space with a pool. We saw another interesting hotel on the same street called Le Vieux Manoir. Both are close to the Amboise chateau, the main street for restaurants too.
We also rented an apartment in Sarlat for four days- convenient and functional but lacking a bit in charm but loved having a washer and dryer. Email me for the name of the rental agency
Posted by
OP
North Vancouver, BC, CANADA
15 posts
Thanks for the Amboise recommendation however I have booked La Guillotiere, which is close to Tours. Seems like a central location for exploring the region. Most chateaus & castles are within 30 mins, a couple are an hour away. Also, La Guillotiere offers great prices, looks regal and has great TripAdvisor reviews. Are there any Rick Steve fans who have stayed there recently?? If yes, please let me know your thoughts on this 17th century B&B.