Looking for a romantic night in the Loire Valley? Between visits to castles, there's nothing quite like a cozy, intimate place where the service is personal and the breakfast is homemade. Here are our 10 favorite boutique hotels between Nantes and Orléans.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our selection of boutique hotels
Between visits to castles, there's nothing quite like a cozy, intimate place where the service is personal and the breakfast is homemade. The Loire Valley is full of charming hotels: stately homes, old winemakers' houses, restored farmhouses, upscale bed-and-breakfasts...
The region offers a particularly wide variety of attractions, thanks to its rich architectural heritage and a long-standing tradition of hospitality. Each restaurant has its own unique character, featuring tasteful decor, enclosed gardens, and menus that highlight local ingredients.
These are our top 10 picks right now, discovered during our trips to the region. This list is by no means exhaustive: we still have many places to discover, and we plan to continue exploring this vast array of options to expand the list over time.
If you're specifically looking to stay in a castle, check out our selection.
1. Château du Rivau
Why stay there?
The Château du Rivau is an early Renaissance castle, and you'll be staying in the former stables, across from the castle. The owners of the property, Patricia and Eric Lagneau, have converted their château into a 7-room hotel.
For more than 30 years, they have devoted their wealth and energy to giving new life to the castle by bringing together contemporary art (another of their passions) and heritage. Patricia has also trained in horticulture to develop no less than 15 thematic gardens.
The decoration of the rooms is neat and contemporary, without distorting the spirit of the place. And we especially appreciated the peace and quiet there. We rounded out our stay with a gourmet meal at Le Jardin Secret on the veranda. Unforgettable!
Read the article about our stay
Practical information
- The hotel is open from April1 to mid-November.
- Château du Rivau is 50 minutes from Tours and 45 minutes from Saumur, two cities easily accessible by train.
- The hotel has a large free parking lot.
- The hotel has 7 rooms, including 1 suite, and is rated 4 stars.
- The rooms are suitable for 2 adults and 1 child under 3 years old. The suite can accommodate 2 adults, 1 child over 3 years old and 1 child under 3 years old.
- See prices, photos and availability - and book now!
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Loire
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a fairly compact car (many villages have narrowed the road).
- Think aboutfull insurance (parking in big cities is really tight).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
2. Hôtel Saint-Pierre (Saumur)
Why stay there?
The hotel is located right in the heart of Saumur's old town, just a stone's throw from the castle, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. We were delighted to settle in at this cozy retreat tucked away among the narrow streets. None of the 14 rooms are alike: each has its own unique style. In the bathrooms, mosaics created by renowned artists, including Paloma Picasso, immediately catch the eye.
We really liked the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The decor is original in places, with a few nods to the equestrian world. The colorful furniture and play of light contrast with the subdued atmosphere of the rooms, creating a look that is full of character. For one night, we enjoyed a peaceful break.
Read the article about our trip.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: downtown Saumur, west of the castle,
- Price range: 4 stars,
- Restaurant: no,
- Family rooms: yes,
- Facilities: atmospheric bar, terrace, relaxation lounges,
- Parking: yes, private and chargeable.
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
3. L'Oisellerie Hotel (Angers)
Why stay there?
We stayed in this Renaissance-style house, which is designated a historic monument, right in the heart of Angers' historic district. Carved wood paneling, a grand staircase, an interior wall sconce: the building’s soul is evident in every corner. Our comfortable and well-designed room blended in perfectly with this historic setting.
As for breakfast—which was hearty and well-prepared—we were served: a real plus, since this time of day means a lot to us. A must-see if you're passing through Angers.
Read the article about our trip.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Historic Center ofAngers
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no (breakfast only and kettle tray in room)
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: high chair, snack vending machine
- Parking: no parking
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
It's time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
4. Le Pigeonnier de la Farge (countryside)
Why stay there?
Want to hit the road for a night you'll never forget? In Sologne, in Chaumont-sur-Tharonne—about an hour south of Orléans—lies a unique spot: the Pigeonnier de la Farge, housed in an authentic, restored dovecote.
We were charmed by the absolute tranquility of the place, as well as by the rooms with their rustic wood paneling and the heated pool, which is lovely on sunny days. A perfect addition to a city break in Orléans, from which you can then explore the nearby castles.
Practical information
- Location: Chaumont-sur-Tharonne (Sologne), 1 hour from Orléans, in the heart of the Sologne forest
- Type: Charming gîte
- Catering: a bar is available on site
- Parking: free on site
- Facilities: large heated outdoor swimming pool, games available, bike hire
- Ideal for: nature lovers
- Check photos and availability - and book now!
5. Logis Demeure de la Vignole (Turquant)
Why stay there?
During our stay at Logis Demeure de la Vignole, we enjoyed an extraordinary experience in enchanting surroundings. Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley vineyards, this establishment is sure to leave a lasting impression.
In a unique troglodytic setting, you'll discover an incredible indoor swimming pool. If you look up, you'll see the rock that forms an integral part of the dwelling. We especially loved this unique, fairy-tale-like setting!
The care taken to decorate our room made our stay all the more pleasant. We were totally convinced by the breakfast, which featured local produce.
Practical information
- District: Turquant - east of Saumur,
- Price range: 3 stars,
- Restaurant: no,
- Family rooms: yes,
- Facilities: 2 swimming pools (1 troglodytic), terrace, garden, troglodytic gym,
- Parking: yes, free and private.
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities
6. Sozo Hotel (Nantes)
Why stay at Sozo Hotel?
How about sleeping in a former 19th-century chapel, surrounded by stained-glass windows and vaulted ceilings, while enjoying all the comforts of a 4-star hotel? That's the experience offered by the Sozo Hotel in Nantes, just a stone's throw from the botanical garden and the SNCF train station.
We really enjoyed this night spent amid the blend of radical modernity and the solemnity of the surroundings—a contrast that gives the place its unique character.
Read our full article
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Nantes Train Station
- Type: Unusual
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: sauna, hammam, ice room and sensory shower
- Parking: yes
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
7. Logis Hotel Restaurant La Brèche (Amboise)
Why stay there?
What an incredible taste experience! The evening we spent at the Logis Hôtel Restaurant La Brèche will remain etched in our memories. A pretty garden surrounds this establishment, where the rooms, accessible by stairs, are decorated with taste and finesse.
Whether you're at a restaurant or a hotel, the service is impeccable, with attentive staff who will make your stay feel like a moment in time!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Historic Center ofAmboise
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: garden, terrace, bike rental
- Parking: free, private indoor parking on site (no reservation required), electric vehicle recharging station
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
8. Hotel Markus (Angers)
Why stay there?
Located right in the heart of Angers, the Hôtel Markus is housed in a 19th-century building and offers an elegant and serene setting. Our spacious studio, with a view of the garden, embraced a minimalist style in shades of white and gray.
Both the guest rooms and the common areas stood out for their brightness and elegance. Last but not least: the breakfast, served at the table, was delicious.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: DowntownAngers
- Price range: 3-4 star equivalent
- Restaurant: no (breakfast only)
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: terrace, garden, bike rental
- Parking: public parking available nearby (no reservation required) at €1.40/hour
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
WHERE TO STAY IN THE Loire Valley
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
9. La Rivière House - Carpe Diem Houseboat (Nantes)
Why stay at the River House?
Moored on the Erdre River, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Nantes, the Carpe Diem houseboat offers a unique experience.
Despite the inclement weather during our visit, the common room won us over: beautifully decorated, bathed in light, with the river as its only horizon. On sunny days, the bridge is the perfect spot for a picnic.
In the rooms, the nautical decor is accented with a few humorous touches, which we particularly enjoyed.
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Erdre/Nantes Ring Road
- Type: unusual
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: terrace, activities and massage on request
- Parking: yes
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
10. Hôtel Coeur de Loire (2-star, Nantes)
Why stay at the Coeur de Loire hotel?
This elegant 1930's house is located on a quiet street 15 minutes walk from downtown. We loved the hotel's friendly atmosphere, its decor—which was particularly tasteful for a 2-star hotel—and breakfast on the veranda overlooking the garden.
We felt like we were in a big family house in Nantes full of guests!
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Talensac in Nantes
- Type: traditional
- Price range: 2 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: no
- Equipment: indoor garden
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability - and book!
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
