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Taste of the Loire Valley
Blois, Loir-et-Cher
About the location: The Loire Valley is famous for its stunning chateaux dotting the banks of the Loire river. The playground of nobles, the valley became the cradle of the artistic explosion of the French Renaissnace. Today, you will also find vineyards flanking much of the length of the Loire, making the region ideal for both culinary and historical exploration. Just an hour’s train ride from Paris on the fast train, this two-day cooking vacation itinerary is the perfect opportunity for you to get a taste of the Loire Valley!
Your accommodations will be in a lovely 3-star hotel in Blois. Renovated in 2007, the hotel is located 1 kilometer away from the Blois Royal Chateau, and near the Blois train station.
About the cooking lesson: Chef Damien Garanger welcomes you for a private cooking demonstration. Chef Garanger trained in Michelin-starred restaurants in the Loire Valley (the “Domaine des Hauts de Loire”), and in Paris and Burgundy. After a few years traveling around the world (Saint Martin, Cyprus, Moscow), he is now back in the region of his birth. Chef Garanger won the French Chef competition “Madarine Impériale” in 2000.
- Arrival in Blois on your own (check-in is available after 2 PM). The hotel is located near the train station (walking distance or a very short taxi ride), or it offers complimentary parking if you choose to drive. (We would be happy to assist you with a low-cost rental.)
- This afternoon, Chef Garanger welcomes you for a private cooking demonstration at your hotel restaurant.
- Gourmet dinner in the restaurant based on your effort. Wine is not included, but the restaurant’s wine list includes over 300 wines, mainly from the Loire Valley, from which to make a selection on your own.
- Overnight.
- Breakfast and check-out. You may decide to depart in the morning, or to spend the day exploring Blois on your own. This ancient city has a rich historical center and merits being explored at your leisure. In the 16th century Blois was the capital of France, under King Louis XII. You can stroll through the old town and along its paved side-streets before departing at your leisure. (You may leave your luggage at the hotel if needed.)
- If you decide to explore Blois on your own, we recommend you visit the Chateau de Blois, which is unique in its combination of four architectural styles: Gothic, Flamboyant, Renaissance and Classic. Built by the Counts of Blois, Louis XII, Francois I and Louis XIII, this chateau was the site of many well-known historical events.
- Another recommendation would be to enter the kingdom of illusions! Enjoy a great magic show and then explore the house of magic, a tribute to the famous magician Robert Houdin, born in Blois. You will have the chance to wander from room to room and discover all the tricks used by magicians.
- Don’t forget to leave some free time for shopping before you depart!
