If you’re planning a trip to the Loire Valley, chances are you’re already familiar with some of the region’s most famous chateaux, like Château de Chenonceau or Château de Chambord. But there are plenty of lesser-known, hidden gems in the area that are worth a visit too. Here are 5 hidden gems in the Loire Valley that you should consider adding to your itinerary:
Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers
The Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers is a ruined 13th-century chateau that was abandoned for many years until a crowdfunding campaign was launched to save it. Today, the chateau is being restored, but visitors can still explore the ruins and take some incredible photos of the site. The chateau is just a short drive from Les Peupliers, which is an ideal base for exploring the region.
The Château de Brézé is a 16th-century castle that boasts the deepest dry moat in Europe. Visitors can explore the castle’s 3 kilometers of underground galleries, which include living spaces, storage areas, and even livestock areas. The castle is located just a short drive from Les Peupliers, so it’s easy to include it in your itinerary.
Château de l’Islette
The Château de l’Islette is a 16th-century castle that was once the love nest of the sculptor Rodin and his lover Camille Claudel. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and take a tour of the interior. The chateau is not far from Les Peupliers, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.
Musée des Blindés
The Musée des Blindés is one of the world’s largest tank museums and is located in the town of Saumur. The museum boasts a collection of over 800 tanks, including tanks from World War I and II, as well as more modern tanks. It’s a 15-minute drive from Les Peupliers, but if you’re interested in military history, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Musée Maurice Dufresne
The Musée Maurice Dufresne is a technological history museum located in the mill at Marnay, near the Château of Azay-le-Rideau. The museum boasts a collection of over 3,000 artifacts, including vintage cars, motorcycles, and even airplanes. If you’re interested in technology and engineering, this museum is a must-visit.
Combining Your Stay at Les Peupliers with Excursions
Les Peupliers is a beautiful Bed & Breakfast located in the heart of the Loire Valley, and it’s the perfect base for exploring these hidden gems. After a long day of sightseeing, you can relax and unwind by the pool or at the on-site therapy room, which offers a range of Beauty Treatments
If you’re a foodie, you can also take advantage of Les Peupliers’ Cookery Courses, where you’ll learn to cook traditional French dishes using local ingredients.
In conclusion, the Loire Valley has so much to offer beyond the well-known chateaux and attractions. By visiting these hidden gems, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the region. And by staying at Les Peupliers, you can combine your sightseeing with some rest and relaxation, and even learn some new skills along the way!