Escape to the Loire Valley's Best-Kept Secret This Spring

Springtime in Paris is one of the most eagerly awaited times of year— it’s no wonder so many songs, films, and notable writers have been inspired by the season in the City of Lights. Tulips begin popping up in perfectly manicured gardens, and Parisians start trading in heavy trench coats for their Breton striped tops. Outdoor cafés feel more alive than ever, and the markets overflow with their vibrant fresh produce. With the days growing longer, it’s easy to lose track of time wandering from one arrondissement to the next, pausing for a glass of wine, browsing a bookshop, and soaking up every bit of the city’s newly thawed energy.

For those whose final destination lies outside of Paris but who want to spend a few days resting and recouping before setting off on another leg, staying in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, with its charming mix of heritage and culture, is always my first choice. Check into the landmark Hotel Lutetia in the 6th arrondissement, where history meets luxury in the hotel that dates back to 1910. There’s one of the best spas in Paris to regenerate after a long trip across the Atlantic, Michelin-starred residencies for the culinary-obsessed, and windows that let in the hum of the city—plus, if you’re lucky, a peek at the Eiffel Tower from your balcony.

But Paris isn’t all there is to see. Once you’ve had your fix, hop on a train an hour west to the quieter edges of the Loire Valley. You’ll be just 30 minutes from Le Mans—famous for its round-the-clock endurance car race in June, but quietly idyllic during the rest of the year. This corner of the French countryside is serene and untouristic in shoulder season, offering a different rhythm for an equally memorable spring adventure.

If you’re looking for a high-energy spot packed with action, look elsewhere. But if you want to unwind in serene natural surroundings—while still enjoying the comforts of a five-star hotel—Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé is your ideal escape. Set on 80 bucolic acres in the Loire Valley, the château offers an onsite restaurant, a spa, expansive gardens, and an outdoor pool nestled among the topiaries.

Originally built in 1764 by a trusted confidant of King Louis XV, the property seamlessly blends 300-year-old architecture as palatial as Versailles with modern amenities. Antique furnishings, artworks, and tapestries preserve its regal heritage, yet the ambiance remains remarkably cozy and intimate for such an expansive estate with sweeping ceilings and grand staircases. With just 12 rooms (each one appointed in ornate Pierre Frey fabrics and de Gournay wallpapers fit for a princess), guests can share meals at a communal dining table, enjoy cocktails in the gardens, or play a friendly match in the billiards room. Furry friends are welcome, making it feel like you won an auction to sleepover in a museum—one that feels like a secret you never want to get out.

Start your morning at the château with a leisurely stroll through the gardens—the perfect way to take in the storybook setting. Warm weather may invite you to spend the afternoon by that pool with a great book and to truly unwind, book a massage or facial at the onsite spa. Meanwhile, just beyond the château’s gates, the village of Le Grand-Lucé is literally steps away, brimming with charm and history. Twice a week, locals set up a little market just outside the castle gate, where they sell handmade goods and fresh produce—it’s a great spot to browse and pick up a few local souvenirs.

This region is also known for its amazing white wines, especially Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, so carve out some time for a wine tour. Plenty of local vineyards offer guided tastings where you can sip crisp, aromatic whites and learn what makes Loire Valley wines so special. Some spots even offer food pairings or picnic setups.

The area is also best known for its many châteaus. From grand palaces to smaller, story-filled manor houses, each one has its own unique charm. Many of these places offer guided tours, allowing you to hear about the noble families who lived there.

You can also spend a day making the short 30-minute drive to Le Mans. This medieval town is an absolute gem and worth a day of exploration. You can’t miss the breathtaking 15th-century church, stunning stained glass, and dramatic Gothic portals. After soaking in the history, meander through the quaint streets lined with local shops, cozy restaurants, and charming storefronts. It’s small but full of character, and you’ll likely lose track of time just wandering around. After a full day, head back to the château for a sunset drink on the patio or curl up by the fire if there’s a bit of a chill in the air.

Food is a big part of the experience here, and every meal can feel like an event if you want it to. Start your day with breakfast in the grand dining room at the château with fresh pastries, hand-squeezed juices, an American-style breakfast if you're longing for home, and most importantly, a leisurely pace. For a more casual bite, the onsite restaurant Jack Pines serves comforting French favorites like onion soup and côte de boeuf. If you’re looking for something a bit more refined, steps away sits Le Lucé, where Chef Maxime Thomas works his magic using classic French techniques and ingredients sourced from the château’s neighbors. The bread comes from the local boulangerie, and the dairy and beef are also proudly local, adding to the charm of every dish.

If you venture into the nearby town of Le Mans, you’ll find some great local spots to eat. For a laid-back bistro vibe, check out La Vieille Porte or La Baraque à Boeuf—both are popular with locals and serve hearty dishes like foie gras, rillettes, shaved beef, and frites. Meals should obviously be paired with a glass of Loire Valley wine, and when the night winds down, treat yourself to a nightcap from the honor bar back at the château.

No matter how you spend your time here—whether wandering through vineyards, exploring medieval towns, or savoring a leisurely meal—you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different era. And honestly, you won’t miss the 21st century one bit.