Loire Valley Lodges

Hotel review

Loire Valley Lodges is one of those rare finds: a five star property that has anchored its roots in communing with nature, rest and relaxation. For those who find some of that stuff a little hippy or bohemian, let me assure you that this place truly is a sanctuary set in a beautiful natural forest where the emphasis is not only on wellbeing and relaxation but also on the finer things in life like excellent food and wine, full 21^st century comforts (excluding TVs and WiFi — though you can access the internet at the main building) and outstanding works of art (the grounds and lodges are littered with sculptures and original pieces that will certainly draw a reaction).

Each lodge has been built on stilts amid the deep forest, and is created from douglas fir, with oak and chestnut used inside for the walls and floor respectively. And each has been individually designed by a contemporary artist, so every one has a different mood and theme. However, what they all have in common are the floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedrooms which ensure you feel like you are nestled amongst the trees, super comfy beds and stylish mid-century furnishings. On the other side of the lodge is the bathroom with his-and-hers sinks and a huge deck area with a private hot tub (the Spa+ lodges come with a private sauna too!). They really have thought of everything: there’s a raffia basket with your pool towels, a torch for ensuring you can find your way back from the restaurant, raincoats in case the weather turns inclement, and cosy blankets in case you get cold sitting outside communing with the trees. There’s a little dining table in the corner of the bedroom where you can enjoy breakfast with a view (they deliver your order in a wicker basket, which you can winch up to your lodge and enjoy at your leisure. It’s particularly delicious with a moreish brioche baked for the hotel by the local bakery).

The food in the restaurant, Ardent, is equally notable. The property has its own farm (a nearby property that is entirely organic) from where they source the majority of their ingredients. Anything that can’t be grown either here or in their potager at the property is sourced entirely from within the local département. The resulting dishes are outstanding and served in an art-filled restaurant or outside on the terrace when the weather allows.

There are bikes to borrow to get around on (the lodges are a little way from the main building), and hectare after hectare to explore either on two wheels or on foot. You might even come across some local wildlife on the way. But for those who have come here to kick back and relax, there’s a fabulous 20m pool (it’s open year round, but only heated May to September, so you get a very Nordic experience if you go for a dip in winter) surrounded by loungers and day beds, plus there’s a sauna, an outdoor shower and Nordic tub for all to enjoy. If you’d like a restorative spa treatment, these can be arranged either in your lodge or outside in a secluded spot.

Owner, Anna Caroline Frey, has created a truly remarkable place here. Her aim was to build a property where both luxury and nature sit side-by-side in harmony, and boy, has she succeeded! The staff are a credit to the property too: everything is quiet, efficient and seems effortless. If you’re looking to explore the Loire Valley, but want to stay somewhere a little different, or if you simply want to get away for a little reset, far from the madding crowds, this place ticks all the boxes and more. It is superb!

Sarah Empson