Vilandry
Vélo Notes
This was just the beginning. I rode into a beautiful pathway, alone, as if entering paradise. I could have screamed in ecstasy, but instead, I pedaled quietly, letting my appreciation speak for itself—what a wonderful world this is. It felt as though someone had laid out a carpet just for me.
Riding through a tree-lined bike path like this brings a deep sense of peace and connection with nature. The air feels cooler under the canopy, and the soft rustling of leaves creates a calming rhythm as you pedal. The trees seem to embrace you, gently guiding you along the path, offering shelter from the outside world.
Then, following the Loire River again, I noticed bottles on display and reclining chairs on the other side. Something about the scene drew me in. I parked my bike to explore and discovered a family-run winery offering an authentic local wine tasting. Tasting local wines provides a true sense of place, reflecting the region’s terroir—its soil, climate, and geography—and deepening the connection to its traditions.
Villandry
Villandry is a renowned château located in the Loire Valley of France, famous for its stunning gardens, which are considered some of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the country. The Château de Villandry was the last of the great Renaissance châteaux built in the Loire Valley, completed around 1536 by Jean Le Breton, who was France's Minister of Finance under King Francis I.
The château itself is an elegant example of Renaissance architecture, but Villandry's true significance lies in its gardens, which were designed and laid out in the early 20th century by Dr. Joachim Carvallo. Carvallo, a Spanish doctor, and his American wife, Ann Coleman, purchased the château in 1906 and dedicated themselves to restoring the gardens to their former Renaissance glory.
The gardens are divided into six main areas, each with its own theme:
The Ornamental Garden: Also known as the "Garden of Love," this section features intricate designs and plantings that symbolize different aspects of love, such as tender, passionate, and fickle love.
The Water Garden: A serene area centered around a large pond, shaped like a Louis XV mirror, surrounded by lawns and topiary.
The Vegetable Garden: A strikingly colorful and geometrically arranged garden that showcases a variety of vegetables, all planted in a decorative and harmonious manner.
The Herb Garden: Featuring medicinal and culinary herbs, this section reflects the practical uses of gardens during the Renaissance.
The Sun Garden: A more recent addition, this garden is divided into three sections representing the sun, moon, and stars, filled with vibrant flowers and plants.
The Maze: A charming labyrinth made of hornbeam hedges, offering visitors a playful challenge.
Villandry is significant not only for its architectural and horticultural beauty but also for its role in preserving Renaissance gardening traditions. The château and its gardens are a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the unique blend of history, art, and nature.
Vélo Notes
I wish I could have stayed here longer. Hundreds of candles were being placed around the garden when I was walking around. I could have stayed here longer and watched the spectacle. Yes, I could have done that. When you are cycling, the mind becomes a matter of gaining grounds and a tunnel vision to get to places. It was something I learned and learning to hold on your horses and enjoy the moment.