Discover this former 19th century hunting lodge with its huge parkland, situated in Onzain (between Blois and Tours), only two hours from Paris.

The Virginia creeper that covers the façade of the Domaine des Hauts de Loire gives the building the familiar feel of a holiday home in the country, the kind of second house where it’s a pleasure to come and recharge your batteries for the weekend.

And there’s no doubting that the venue’s quiet charm contributes greatly to making the Domaine des Hauts de Loire seem like a “patch of paradise” nestling in a green oasis.

This magnificent hunting lodge was built in 1860 on the Val de Loire Wine Route, in the heart of a region famous for its châteaux. The Domaine is surrounded by a 70-hectare park where the ponds — which are home to many birds — lie hidden in the green and fragrant woods.

Whether you’re on foot or on a bike, it is highly agreeable to follow the paths that cross the forest. In the shade of the trees, several benches invite you to rest awhile as you admire the beauty of the landscape and the spectacle offered up by nature.

More adventurous visitors might make their way to one of the three ponds, tempted by a spot of fishing alongside the black swans, guardians of the water.

For those interested in something more unusual, a visit to the Domaine Lamé Deslile Boucard, a Bourgueuil vineyard, is a must: here you can explore the highly original way in which the winemaker maintains his vines under the banner of eco-responsibility, using poultry to weed the land in complete freedom!

After a walk like that, it’s time for a tour devoted to fine cuisine! And the surrounding vineyards offer a number of different guided visits and tastings where you can discover the region’s best wines.

 

At the Domaine, the starred-chef’s table serves up the delights of Loire cuisine with a fresh twist and enhanced by a range of excellent wines, including the great whites of the Loire: Vouvray, Montlouis and Touraine.

And, if you like, you can even take a class with the chef and enjoy the fresh produce from the vegetable garden.

The comfortable rooms and peaceful, sunny terrace overlooking the plain and surrounding woods add the finishing touches to a moment of perfect relaxation, all offered by the Domaine des Hauts de Loire.

Nature lovers and anyone who appreciates the good life will undoubtedly be seduced by the attractions of this exceptional venue, a haven of peace where harmony and well-being are the order of the day.