{"id":50418,"date":"2025-05-29T02:31:30","date_gmt":"2025-05-29T00:31:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/?p=50418"},"modified":"2025-05-29T23:29:20","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T21:29:20","slug":"chateau-du-rivau-hotel","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/2025\/05\/29\/chateau-du-rivau-hotel\/","title":{"rendered":"Spend one night or more in the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau, a medieval Loire Valley castle-hotel between history, art and gastronomy"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"\"\"About ten kilometers away from Chinon, in the heart of the royal Touraine<\/em> region, the unmissable Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/em> offers an extraordinary cultural experience. Far from the classic tours of emblematic Loire Valley ch\u00e2teaux<\/em>, this astonishing site offers a sensory and artistic journey at the intersection of heritage, nature, and contemporary creation. A truly magical setting, the estate combines enchanting gardens, contemporary art, and historical memory with a touch of humor. <\/strong>By AP<\/em><\/p>\n

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..the result<\/strong> is a playful, poetic, and immersive experience<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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A true immersion in fantastical walls<\/strong> and gardens<\/strong>..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As far as we know, the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em><\/a> is not limited to its medieval<\/strong> stones, since it is surrounded by fourteen gardens<\/strong>, all inspired by tales<\/strong> and legends<\/strong>. These dreamlike plant spaces<\/strong> would undoubtedly awaken your senses<\/strong> at every step. For example, you would be able to encounter more than 500<\/strong> varieties of fragrant roses<\/strong>, in a stunning vegetable garden<\/strong>, whose harvests<\/strong> supply the estate’s locavore<\/strong><\/em> restaurant<\/strong>, and monumental art installations<\/strong>, scattered among countless trees<\/strong> and flowerbeds<\/strong>. Adding to this, children<\/strong> can enjoy treasure hunts<\/strong> and costumes<\/strong>, while adults<\/strong> may find a break in the hammocks<\/strong> or in the tea room<\/strong> (photo credits: AP). <\/p>\n

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..as an invitation<\/strong> to experience some peaceful ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em> life.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The Laigneau<\/strong><\/em> couple relighted this old medieval<\/strong> lady..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For the story, it has been for over forty<\/strong> years that Patricia<\/strong> and \u00c9ric Laigneau<\/strong>, owners of the ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em>, have been building a remarkable collection<\/strong> of contemporary art<\/strong>. In this wide collection, don’t miss various sculptures<\/strong>, paintings<\/strong>, installations<\/strong>, and photographs<\/strong>, all featured in a scenography<\/strong>, much inspired by the past<\/strong> but deeply rooted in current concerns<\/strong>. The dialogue<\/strong>, settled between those modern artworks<\/strong> and the historical decoration<\/strong> gives to this ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em> a unique atmosphere<\/strong>, somehow reinventing the tradition of a real cabinet of curiosities<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

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..each in a unique style<\/strong>, transform these creatures<\/strong> into critical emblems<\/strong> of the actual World.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Installations by Jeff Koons<\/strong>, Karine Bonneval<\/strong>, or Katia Bourdarel<\/strong>, among many others.. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Each year, a thematic exhibition<\/strong> fuels this dynamic<\/strong>. It features contemporary creations<\/strong> that question the past<\/strong>, as the artist Julien des Monstiers<\/strong> does by paying homage to Max Ernst<\/strong> with female representations<\/strong>, all inspired by the Touraine<\/strong><\/em> landscape. For instance, the Portrait Room <\/strong><\/em>combines ancient effigies<\/strong> from the lords of Beauvau<\/strong><\/em>, as the ancient lineage<\/strong> that owned Rivau<\/strong><\/em>, with contemporary portraits<\/strong>, such as those of the Laigneau<\/strong><\/em> family, photographed with irony<\/strong> and finesse<\/strong>. You have to know that artists<\/strong>, such as Delphine Balley<\/strong> and Val\u00e9rie Belin<\/strong> question social representations<\/strong>, the passage of time<\/strong>, and the place of images<\/strong> in our collective memory<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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..Blois<\/strong> earthenware, with contemporary artworks<\/strong>, in a subtle interplay<\/strong> of resonances.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Here, Le Rivau<\/strong><\/em> perpetuates this tradition by juxtaposing ancient masterpieces<\/strong>, such as..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Thereafter, the Salle des Seigneurs<\/strong><\/em> celebrates the legacy of the Beauvau<\/strong><\/em> family, builders of the ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em> in the 15th century<\/strong>. This space<\/strong> pays homage to the humanist<\/strong> fashion of the 16th century<\/strong>, that of cabinets of curiosities<\/strong><\/em> that mingled rare objects<\/strong>, works of art<\/strong>, and wonders of nature<\/strong>. In the Salle du Grand Logis<\/em><\/strong>, the animal<\/strong> world takes center stage, unveiling the local fascination with hunting<\/strong> and the way in which contemporary artists<\/strong> today question our relationship with animality<\/strong>. From Sun Xue<\/strong>‘s striking unicorn to Nicolas Darrot<\/strong>‘s interactive sculpture<\/strong>, evoking the legend of Saint Hubert<\/strong>, the animal<\/strong> here becomes a mirror of our emotions<\/strong>, our fears, and our ecological responsibilities<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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..especially if you stay longer<\/strong>, immerse yourself<\/strong> in the French art of living<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Anchored in an imaginary<\/strong>, let’s admire this contemporary art<\/strong> collection..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

As you can see, the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em> is not simply a historical monument<\/strong>; but a living place<\/strong> where art<\/strong>, history<\/strong>, and nature<\/strong> poetically intertwine. By fully integrating contemporary creation<\/strong> into a complex, where fine gastronomy<\/strong> and hospitality<\/strong> meet each other. More than a visit, it is a journey<\/strong> to a land of wonder<\/strong><\/em>, where each room<\/strong>, each garden<\/strong>, and each artwork<\/strong> would undoubtedly take you away. There are numerous possibilities for activities<\/strong>, like biking<\/strong> through the charming towns<\/strong> of Chinon<\/strong> and Richelieu<\/strong>, unless wine lovers<\/strong> can explore the surrounding vineyards<\/strong>, while travelers<\/strong> seeking relaxation<\/strong>, massages<\/strong> are also available upon reservation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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..from modern amenities<\/strong> for a comfortable stay<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Guests can enjoy an enchanting setting<\/strong> while benefiting.. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you wish to pursue this immersion<\/strong> in the heart of the Loire Valley<\/strong><\/em>, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/strong><\/em>, you may have a stay in the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em> hospitality. This 4-star hotel<\/strong> proposes an unforgettable getaway<\/strong>, for a unique experience of ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em> life, combining historic<\/strong> refinement with contemporary<\/strong> comfort. The various rooms<\/strong>, all located within the castle<\/strong> grounds, combine  some old-world<\/strong> charm with high-end<\/strong> amenities. Each has a unique atmosphere<\/strong>, inspired by emblematic<\/strong> figures of the Middle Ages<\/strong><\/em> or the Renaissance<\/strong><\/em>, and decorated with modern works of art<\/strong>. This bold combination<\/strong> offers an elegant<\/strong> and resolutely contemporary <\/strong>location.<\/p>\n

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..residence<\/strong> of rare charm, where elegance<\/strong> and authenticity<\/strong> combine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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A stay at Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em> means a timeless escape<\/strong> in a historic.. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The rooms<\/strong> can accommodate two adults<\/strong> and one young child<\/strong>, with a crib<\/strong>, available upon request<\/strong>. A family<\/strong> suite<\/strong> can accommodate two adults<\/strong> and two children<\/strong>, while larger families<\/strong> can enjoy connecting rooms<\/strong>. At nightfall<\/strong>, it seems that visitors<\/strong> have the rare privilege of exclusively discovering the castle’s gardens<\/strong>, once the site<\/strong> is closed to the public<\/strong>. The subtle lighting<\/strong> of the facades<\/strong>, the keep<\/strong>, and its machicolations<\/strong> transforms the estate<\/strong> into a magical setting<\/strong>. This magical atmosphere<\/strong> prolongs the escape<\/strong> until nightfall<\/strong>. In the morning, a generous buffet<\/strong> breakfast<\/strong> featuring fresh<\/strong> products<\/strong>, from local producers<\/strong> is served, included in the stay<\/strong> and reflects the ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em>‘s commitment to local know-how<\/strong> and quality<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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..domain<\/strong>, just beneath those millenary wall stones<\/strong>?<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Why not starting with a sparkling<\/strong> wine<\/strong> from the local..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Then, still within the enchanting grounds<\/strong> of the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em>, have a step into La Table des F\u00e9es<\/strong><\/em> that stands out as a unique restaurant<\/strong>, driven by the creativity<\/strong> of talented chef Andrea Modesto<\/strong>. This eco-friendly<\/strong> and refined<\/strong> lunchtime restaurant<\/strong> offers simple and delicious cuisine<\/strong><\/em>, again in an exceptional natural setting<\/strong>. Located opposite Gargantua<\/strong><\/em>‘s vegetable garden<\/strong>, its shaded terrace<\/strong> offers a true haven of peace<\/strong>. Beneath large parasols<\/strong><\/em> and surrounded by aromatic<\/strong> plants<\/strong>, guests can enjoy a meal<\/strong> to the sound of birdsong<\/strong>. Whether for a romantic<\/strong> lunch or a relaxing family<\/strong> getaway, La Table des F\u00e9es<\/strong><\/em> promises a serene experience<\/b>.<\/p>\n

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..in an enchanting setting<\/strong>, and a commitment<\/strong> to local nature<\/strong> and produce<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The couple of owners<\/strong> wished La Table des F\u00e9es<\/strong><\/em> to combine genuine culinary<\/strong> expertise..  <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The restaurant<\/strong>‘s cuisine is deeply rooted in its local environment<\/strong>, the vegetables<\/strong> are carefully grown at the Ferme du Rivau<\/strong><\/em>, while the wines<\/strong> come from partner vineyards<\/strong> in the region<\/strong>, particularly those in Chinon<\/strong>, and the fresh produce<\/strong> is selected from neighboring producers<\/strong>. This ethical<\/strong> approach promotes local<\/strong> and sustainable agriculture<\/strong>, while ensuring perfect traceability<\/strong> of ingredients. The menu<\/strong>, developed by Andrea Modesto<\/strong>, formerly Jo\u00ebl Robuchon<\/strong>‘s right-hand man<\/strong>, features dishes<\/strong> that are as delicious<\/strong> as they are colorful<\/strong>. It seems that suggestions<\/strong> include a seasonal floral salad<\/strong>, a croque-monsieur<\/strong><\/em> with Loire Valley<\/strong><\/em> cheese, and a vitello tonnato<\/strong><\/em>, revisited by the chef<\/strong>, or fresh pasta with Italian<\/strong> accents, or a house-smoked salmon<\/strong> tartine<\/em> to complete this appetizing<\/strong> offering. <\/p>\n

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..kindly in good hands of the Italian<\/strong> touch of the Chef Andrea Modesto<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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This veranda<\/strong><\/em> is a must-visit for an inspired and responsible lunch<\/strong> or dinner<\/strong>..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Still in the historic<\/strong> and lush<\/strong> setting of the Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em>, we consider that Le Jardin Secret<\/strong><\/em> reveals itself as an intimate gastronomic<\/strong> restaurant<\/strong>, dedicated to inventive<\/strong> and delicate<\/strong> cuisine. Nestled in the heart of the medieval<\/strong> courtyard, this gourmet restaurant<\/strong> offers a sensory immersion<\/strong>, combining refinement<\/strong>, terroir<\/strong><\/em>, and floral poetry<\/strong>. Here again, the Chef Andrea Modesto<\/strong>, trained in prestigious Michelin-starred<\/strong> establishments, offers a unique cuisine<\/strong>. A menu, inspired by Loire Valley<\/strong><\/em>, enriched with Italian<\/strong> touches and edible flowers<\/strong> from the garden<\/strong>, for an explosion of flavors<\/strong>, that is as original<\/strong> as it is elegant<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

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..in the heart of Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em>, with legendary dishes<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Le Jardin Secret<\/strong><\/em> proposes a gastronomic<\/strong> experience.. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In this intimate 20-seat<\/strong> venue, the atmosphere<\/strong> is both warm and peaceful, thanks to tufa<\/strong><\/em> walls and the unmissable view<\/strong> of those gardens<\/strong>. All the products<\/strong> are locally sourced, from neighboring farms<\/strong> or grown on-site, from homemade bread<\/strong>, made with ancient flours<\/strong>, garden vegetables<\/strong>, aromatic flowers<\/strong>, and local wines<\/strong>, all creating a hearty and sustainable moment<\/strong>. This Jardin Secret<\/strong><\/em> menu may be distinguished by its creativity<\/strong>. For starters<\/strong>, according to the season, enjoy roasted local asparagus<\/strong>, a perfect egg<\/strong><\/em> on organic baby spinach<\/strong>, or crispy sardines<\/strong> with a red onion<\/strong> gel. If you are kind to the chef<\/strong>, maybe could he also prepare you the legendary Jo\u00ebl Robuchon<\/strong>‘s pur\u00e9e<\/em>?<\/p>\nngg_shortcode_10_placeholder\n

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..where the authentic natural<\/strong> world stands at the center of creation<\/strong><\/em>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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The ch\u00e2teau<\/strong><\/em>‘s wine<\/strong> selection reflects the estate’s commitment<\/strong> to terroir<\/strong><\/em> know-how..<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For the main course<\/strong>, choices range from confit<\/strong> with herbs and garden<\/strong> flowers, to red mullet<\/strong> fillet, topped with cinnamon<\/strong>-scented bisque<\/strong><\/em>, to homemade spaghetti<\/strong><\/em> with fava<\/em> bean<\/strong> cream and lemony coconut milk<\/strong>. For sweet dishes<\/strong>, your meal<\/strong> may end on a fruity<\/strong> note with roasted pineapple<\/strong> or strawberry<\/strong> tartare<\/em>, with zabaglione<\/strong><\/em>. A cheese<\/strong> option is also offered with a local selection<\/strong>, of course including Sainte-Maure<\/strong><\/em> cheese in three different maturations<\/strong>. Adding to this, Le Jardin Secret<\/strong><\/em> is also participating in “Les vignerons passent \u00e0 table”<\/strong><\/em> wine event<\/strong>, with two wine-pairing<\/strong> dinners in June<\/strong> and July<\/strong>, in collaboration with Domaine Lambert<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

Open from March 29th<\/strong> to November 11th, 2025<\/strong>, the restaurant<\/strong> welcomes guests<\/strong>, from Monday<\/strong> to Friday<\/strong> evenings, and for lunch<\/strong> and dinner<\/strong> on weekends<\/strong>. An unforgettable gastronomic<\/strong> experience, in harmony with nature<\/strong> and history<\/strong>.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Ch\u00e2teau du Rivau<\/strong><\/em><\/a>, 9 Rue du Ch\u00e2teau, 37120 L\u00e9mer\u00e9 (France) \/ Phone : 00 33 (0)2 47 95 77 47. More details in their official website<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

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About ten kilometers away from Chinon, in the heart of the royal Touraine region, the…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":9,"featured_media":50544,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"ngg_post_thumbnail":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[26,69,24,1,884,23],"tags":[632,1808,1569,752,868,574],"class_list":["post-50418","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-art","category-castle","category-gastronomy","category-hospitality","category-loire-valley","category-sightseeing","tag-boutique-hotel","tag-chateau-du-rivau","tag-chinon","tag-garden","tag-loire-valley","tag-restaurant"],"post_mailing_queue_ids":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50418","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/9"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=50418"}],"version-history":[{"count":36,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50418\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":50618,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/50418\/revisions\/50618"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/50544"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=50418"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=50418"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/francevisiting.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=50418"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}