Château de la Rue

Véronique realized her dream—to convert her family home into a B&B. Véronique was born and fondly spent her family vacations in this grand 18th century manor on over 5 hectares of lawn bordered by river La Loire and covered with orchards. A feeling of grandeur pervades this two-story building made of soft cream stone with wedgewood blue shutters outside and high ceilings with elegant furnishings inside. Although the décor is regal, Véronique has managed to achieve a comfortable, inviting ambiance. There are seven guestrooms including a large room set on old stone floors in what was once the Orangerie. Another that Véronique terms a “family unit” is located in an independent building just off the parking. My favorite rooms are the five in the manor, all named for famous women. Cassandra, on the third floor under a ceiling mural of an illusory sky, is decorated in rich creams and beiges in the bedroom and bath. The cozy Mme Seveigne (Louis XIV’s mistress) is decorated in a warm rust and cream fabric. Her clawfoot tub and sink are cleverly curtained off. A central window opens to the sound of songbirds nesting in the back garden. Settle in and enjoy the tranquil setting with a picnic on the river’s edge, or explore the region’s magnificent châteaux. As Véronique invites: Let my home be your home for a night, a weekend, or longer.