Travel Stories: Chateau de Valmer, France 2019

One of the stops during the France tour I led was Chateau de Valmer in the Loire Valley. What a beautiful garden! We also were treated to a wine tasting and a tour of their impressive wine cellar.

There garden is comprised of 8 terraces and a moat. The terraced gardens are in the Renaissance style and very enjoyable to explore. I had first seen this garden in a Gardens of France video and was intrigued with all of the terraces.

The buildings date from 1640. Although the castle burned down in 1948, the troglodytic chapel, which was built in 1524, remains. (in case you’re wondering, troglodytes were hermits who lived in caves).

The vineyard encompasses 80 acres. They grow chenin grapes to produce sparkling, dry, semi-dry and sweet white wines.

Here are some photos from our visit. Remember that you can click on any of them to view a much larger image. For additional information, you can visit to the website of Chateau de Valmer vineyards and gardens.

 

Above left: That’s the moat!

 

Above left: Interesting sculpture looking over the kitchen garden. Right: Insect hotel.

 

Above left and right: Two impressive examples of skilled fruit-tree pruning!

 

Above left: Nice view of edible garden. Above right: I love this sweet weather vane.