Sweep up the wooded drive to the formal garden to be greeted by Madame, or one of her grown-up children brushing up their English… and know you have entered an enchanting place. The graceful château sits in wooded splendour on the banks of the Cher – and you can see the river from the suitably châteauesque bedrooms. Breakfast well on a wisteria-shaded terrace by the pool, or in the elegant dining room, dine out at one of the local recommended restaurants. Borrow bikes (masses to see within pedalling distance), play billiards in the fab games room or just have a wander: it’s the most relaxed of places.
We stayed in La Closerie for 5 nights. It is a very quiet, comfortable and well-furnished cottage. The grounds of the Chateau are lovely, and we enjoyed walks along the river in both directions. There are good shops and restaurants in Blere. The location is very convenient to the central Loire. Nathalie is a charming host. Highly recommended.