Owing to its Renaissance castle and magnificent Italian inspired gardens, Villandry, in the heart of the Loire Valley, is classified as a UNESCO Heritage Site. Just a 5-minute drive from this impressive site is the Haut de Lys, a reconverted convent that is now a stunning hotel.
Much like the Chateau de la Loire, the building of the Haut de Lys was built from Tuffeau stones. This limestone-based material means that the hotel boasts a similar charm to the region’s chateaux. This is only enhanced by the gorgeous garden, characterised by its centenary trees. The resulting 1200 square-metres of this wonderful park is a serene space dedicated to your wellbeing. This emphasis on relaxation is also evident in the comfort of the plush queen-size bed that you can find in your contemporary room, or in the two hot tubs that await you in the large French gardens.
Near Tours – one of the French capitals of gastronomy – the hotel’s closest dining options are in the Villandry town centre. This said, you can still enjoy a selection of rillettes and goat cheeses, as well as an indulgent slice of traditional apple pie in the Lounge Bar. Accompany your “Terroir Buffet” with a glass of regional Vouvray, Chinon or Bourgueil to complete your culinary adventure here.
Spend the rest of your time discovering the Loire Valley by walking or cycling. Fishing, canoeing, picking mushrooms or spotting beavers are all local activities, so choose your favourite to make the most of your time at the Haut de Lys.