Formerly a 19th-century hunting lodge, today a Relais & Chateaux property, located two hours driving from Paris, Les Hauts de Loire is the essence of L’Art de Vivre and the ultimate French countryside getaway.
The domain is nestled in Onzain, Loire Valley, the land of castles, goat cheese and some of the best wines in the world.
After a short drive into the forest that surrounds the domain, we arrived in front of a castle covered with red and green ivy. I knew from that moment that it will be a magical stay.
The classy ambiance, the charm of the surrounding nature, the gourmet cuisine and SPA by Clarins make from Les Hauts de Loire a heaven of tranquility and an ideal escape for anybody who simply appreciates the beauty.
Checking in: Les Hauts de Loire
The days were slow and beautiful at Les Hauts de Loire. Staying at Les Hauts de Loire is like stepping into the finesse of French elegance.
There are several types of accommodation ranging from rooms and suites settled either in the castle, either in the carriage house, all indulging the ultimate state of peace and elegance. Every room is carefully decorated with unique pieces inspiring art and beauty, keeping at the same time the cosyness of a countryside château.
The suite we stayed in gave me all the feeling of comfort and cosynes, with its classic and elegant design, and the magnificent view over the property. It’s a beautiful feel to wake up in the morning and let yourself carried away by the fairy of the landscape and by the birds sounds.
Fine dining cuisine
An ultimate French escape would be complete only after enjoying the delights of French cuisine. Apart from its beautiful location, Les Hauts de Lore is all about gourmet food and wine tasting. It was such a bliss to experience the French saveurs from home-made honey, croissants and cheese to Michelin star feasts.
There are two restaurants at the property: The Bistro and the gastronomic restaurant.
A selection of cheese, croissants, brioche, home made-honey to name a few of my favorites, is served at The Bistro restaurant for breakfast, while during diner time, the Bistro turns into a chic and cosy place, combined with the delectation of culinary tasting.
The two Michelin-star restaurant is definitely a place not to be missed by the gourmet lovers when visiting the region. Les Hauts de Loire is well worth a visit only for an exquisite dinner at its gourmet restaurant.
The French classics are served with flair, and the dinner remains an unforgettable gourmet experience. Le Fois Gras de Canard served in an amaranthe crust with Morello cherry chutney, or the Strugeon and creamy mustard sabayon by “Martin Pouret” were just a few of the specialties we enjoyed during this special dinner. The taste of the raspberry with blackcurrant sorbet was just perfect. Every dish was accompanied by a fine regional wine, of a perfect flavor.
Things to do at Les Hauts de Loire
Tennis court, biking and hiking trails, pool and SPA, or simply relaxing in the garden, soaking up the sun are just a few ways to spend a wonderful time at Les Hauts de Loire.
The domain is so beautiful and there was nothing more pleasant than spend the time indulged by the shimmering rays of the October sun. Also, the hiking trails into the forest were some of my favorite activities.
Balloon ride over the Loire Valley
Beside the gourmet experience, the highlight of the trip was definitely the balloon ride over the Loire Valley.
Aérocom Montgolfières organizes balloon rides over the Loire Valley and Les Hauts de Loire can arrange this for their guests as well. The balloon ride definitely was an unforgettable experience, and a different way to explore and admire the nature and the castles of Loire Valley. We went for the ride at sunrise and there was magic in the air – the amazing feeling to watch the nature waking up to life in the morning light.
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