I made a promise to myself this year — that is to travel less, but better. Especially with the wartime oil pricing causes turbulence in the tourism industry, more are choosing a slow pace of travel, embracing experiences over that touch-and-go sort of mad-man sight seeing mode that was all the rage in the early 2000s.
If you’re sick of googling the generic lists of must-visit cities in Europe, heed my advice and hit up the centre of France — the Loire Valley region with its bounty of chateaux, vineyards, gravelled cycling paths and picture perfect villages lining verdant riverbanks accommodates a wide spectrum of tastes. If you’re the type to crave storybook luxury with nature as its backdrop, then Les Sources de Cheverny guarantees the perfect fairy tale ending to your loire valley escapades.
The loire valley outpost is part of the groups’ beautifully curated collection of vineyard hotels — including Les Sources de Vougeot in Burgundy that just opened its doors in March 2026. The commitment to this wine tourism approach is evident but what really shines in the overall experience is the distinctive individuality and local charm. In fact, a closer look at the demographics of the guests during our stay there says it all…
So, who goes there?
The type of travellers who are remiss to the big city action. A motley mix of Bohemian spirits and young Parisian couples toting their trophy first child around, still practicing gentle parenting, living in a bubble, unfazed by their toddler swiping their entire viennoiserie depository to the floor in a fit. Next to them, a couple of nomadic thirty-somethings are engaged in a hot discussion about which vineyards to explore — Domaine Tessier and Domaine des Guards are our top picks. Then there are the over 60s looking for an experience befitting of their hard earned cash and stolen quality of life during their youth. They usually come with a well groomed pooch in tow.
What are they looking for?
Anybody who’s out here is really an armchair naturalist — someone interested in nature from a distance, through books, documentaries, or aesthetics rather than direct experience. And to be honest, the establishment is a gateway drug to a deeper engagement with the elements. Here, you’re forced to contemplate the exuberance of nature and its elements. The dappled lighting at the edge of the forest, the tall grass on the peripherals of perfectly polished windows running a little wild, and pebbled pathways that your stroller loves to hate. Don’t get me wrong, but moving around fosters a passive appreciation for the outdoors.
If you’re invested, a world of activities lay ahead to progressively ‘engage with the landscape, ’ — cycling trips, walks in their forested area, beekeeping and even forest bathing to soothe the soul. Take it as a gentle introduction, the highly curated version, nature on training wheels.
First Impressions…
Drive through a canopy of dense foliage to the melodic chorus of birdsong and, around a gentle bend, an elegant chateau emerge into view. Beyond it awaits a hotel lobby of irresistible charm — Les Sources de Cheverny is one superlative after another.
The aforementioned Château de Breuil has 13 rooms and suites with woodwork and fireplace feels that genuinely portray an experience of living in a hunting lodge. Large windows frame the changing seasons and offers guests front-row views to the outdoors. They usually do it casually dressed, with a mug of hot chocolate unwinding over a game of chess.
The other 26 rooms are scattered across the 110 acre estate, more functional, chalet-style, but still quaint nonetheless with them positioned in restored carriage houses and stables. In our family suite, the palette of sage and walnut brown marry plush velvet lending the space a refined, country-house warmth. It’s nostalgic with a contemporary edge and I’m taking notes for my future dream home.
What’s on the menu?
Le Favori, Les Sources de Cheverny’s One-Michelin starred restaurant is reason enough to plan a staycation. Executive Chef Pierre Frindel cooks with pure intent and restraint. His food almost like a haiku — a few words carrying depth. Here, every ingredient serves a precise purpose. For those unfamiliar with the terroir of the Loire, the kitchen acts as a sort of translator between the land, the people who work it and its esteemed guests.
The result is a spectacular presentation of the land’s seasonal bounty via all manner of delicious things such hake with navet spaghetti served with a provocative yuzu ponzu sauce and a dish of smoked sturgeon flanked by cauliflower and spills of buttermilk.
If you’re still hungry the next morning, the buffet breakfast has a sugar fest laid out just the way the French love it — tackle warm folds of crepe with chocolate sauce, then chase that with a pain au chocolat and perhaps a generous slice of marbled cake for some extra fuel you’ll be needing for that biking expedition. The savouries appeal as well with crisp bacon strips and tiny pork sausages on constant refill.
Not into the great outdoors?
Fret not, you’ll find kindred spirits in the Caudalie Spa. Hosting a indoor heated pool and spa facilities independent to the public ones, the spa has a dedicated fan base. Escape the everyday and recharge with a bevy of revitalising treatments using family owned vinotheraphy products.
The Verdict
Rejuvenating, tasteful and cossetting. Les Sources de Cheverny is a true hidden find in the Loire, offering an exceptional retreat for those seeking understated luxury in the shadow of castles and vineyards. We’re already planning our next visit.
Les Sources de Cheverny
Address: 23 Route de Fougère, 41700 Cheverny
Instagram: @lessourcesdecheverny
Text: Sihan Lee
Photo courtesy: Sihan Lee
