Loire Valley Lodges
Esvres, France
PERSONALITIES
Lovers of art and architecture. Slow travelers. Foodies. Wine Aficionados. Writers.
MOMENTS
Castles, vineyards, and rolling landscapes. The deep forest. Breathing in the scent of earth, bark and leaves. Afternoon bike rides. Art in every corner. Finding inspiration.
BEST VISITING MONTHS
The best times to visit Esvres, France, are in spring and autumn, each offering its own unique charm. Spring, particularly in May and June, is a vibrant season when the landscape comes alive with fresh green leaves and blooming flowers. The warm, sunny days are perfect for enjoying the pool, which opens for the season, while the air is filled with the delightful scents of nature. Local vegetables and fruits are at their peak, making for delicious, fresh meals. Long evenings provide the perfect opportunity to relax at the bar, taking in serene views of the pool and the surrounding forest.
Autumn, spanning September through November, transforms the scenery with its warm golden light and ever-changing hues of yellow and orange. In September, visitors can experience the captivating sound of the red deer rut, a true highlight of the season. As the air cools, the jacuzzi becomes an inviting retreat, offering hours of relaxation in warm, soothing water while soaking in the beauty of the autumnal landscape.
COST
WHY STAY
Loire Valley Lodges is a landscape hotel nestled in a private forest spanning over 300 acres in Esvres, France. Located less than two hours from Paris, this adults-only sanctuary is a place where nature, art, and luxury converge. The lodges are situated near the region’s iconic châteaux, making it an ideal base for exploring the rich history of the Loire Valley.
Each of the 18 private lodges is designed by a contemporary artist, blending creativity with eco-conscious architecture. Perched on stilts, the lodges provide breathtaking views of the surrounding forest, allowing guests to observe wildlife from the comfort of their beds or expansive terraces. Floor-to-ceiling windows on either end invite natural light and offer an ever-changing natural spectacle. The terraces, complete with private jacuzzis and saunas, immerse guests in the serene sounds of the forest. Thoughtful details like wooden furnishings, stone basins, and curated artwork enhance the connection to nature. Without the distraction of Wi-Fi or TVs, guests are encouraged to fully unwind and engage with their surroundings.
The hotel provides holistic wellness experiences, including guided forest bathing, rejuvenating massages, and private yoga or tai chi sessions, all thoughtfully designed to align body and mind with the surrounding natural environment. Guests can also indulge in a unique sound journey at the Zome lodge, where immersive auditory experiences deepen relaxation and foster a profound sense of tranquility.
Amenities are designed to complement the rhythm of the surrounding landscape, offering everything needed for a peaceful, self-paced stay. With its 22-meter pool surrounded by olive trees and sculptures, on-site vegetable garden, beehives, and a gourmet restaurant, Loire Valley Lodges ensures an immersive natural experience, allowing guests to reconnect with the wilderness, in an inspiring and unique setting.
WHY WANDER
The Loire Valley is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering visitors the chance to explore stunning castles like Amboise, Chenonceaux, and Cheverny. These iconic châteaux, with their grand architecture and rich heritage, provide a glimpse into the region's royal past. Wander through the ornate gardens, explore the impressive interiors, and take in the sweeping views of the surrounding landscapes, making each visit a step back in time. The Loire Valley is also home to some of France’s most celebrated wineries and vineyards, offering wine enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy wine tastings in picturesque settings.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley. From high above, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the castles, vineyards, and rolling landscapes below, making for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Afterward, explore the valley at your own pace by biking along the Cher River or the Loire River, where scenic trails wind past quaint villages and lush landscapes teeming with wildlife. For a more serene journey, take a boat trip on the Loire, gliding along the river as you admire the majestic river castles and pristine nature that surround them.
INDULGE IN
Mornings start with a touch of magic as breakfast baskets are hoisted up to the treetop terraces. Guests can enjoy their meal in the privacy of their lodge, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest at sunrise. The room is also equipped with a coffee plunger and an assortment of teas, made from garden-fresh herbs and presented in test tubes—nothing is pre-packaged.
Throughout the day, the bar offers finger foods and refreshments, allowing guests to relax and indulge at their own pace without leaving the tranquility of the lodge.
For dining, the property features two exceptional restaurants. The highlight is Ardent, a Michelin-selected gastronomic experience, offering tasting menus of 4, 6, or 8 courses. Each dish draws inspiration from the surrounding forest, incorporating ingredients like garden vegetables, pine, and homegrown honey. The creative menu can be paired with unique beverages, including local wines and even a house-made mead.
GETTING THERE
The nearest train station, Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, is just a 20-minute drive away and easily reached by VTC or taxi, with direct trains available from Paris, Bordeaux, Charles de Gaulle Airport, and Lille. For those driving from Paris, the property is located 210 kilometers away, making for a scenic road trip through the beautiful French countryside. If you’re traveling internationally, Tours Airport is a convenient option, offering direct flights from England—just 20 minutes from the lodges.
WILD INITIATIVES
Loire Valley Lodges is deeply committed to regenerative practices that foster a connection between guests and nature while ensuring the preservation of the surrounding forest. As a symbol of their dedication to forest conservation, each guest is gifted a tree to plant, promoting reforestation and ecological stewardship.
Years of careful planning and collaboration with local councils have ensured that the forest is responsibly managed and protected, creating an environment where sustainability is felt in every aspect of the guest experience.
Photos by Loire Valley, @anne emmanuelle THION , @geraldine Martens, antoine et carolane copie