 LOIRE VALLEY
Magnificent châteaux, steeped in history and overflowing with treasures, vividly illustrate the long and colourful past of this ancient region. These fine buildings are set in a fertile landscape of soft green valleys, lush vineyards and fields of flowers. It is not surprising that this area is known as the Garden of France.
CUISINE
Due to the fertile land, the range of local dishes is immense. The vast range of vegetables and fruit is both popular and served with imagination. Fruit tarts are common and tarte tatin is one of the regional specialities.
Local freshwater fish, including salmon ,pike and eels, are often accompanied with the speciality beurre blanc (butter whipped with white wine and shallots).
 Nine years ago in a desperate search to find a restaurant open on a Monday Jack and I discovered Les Quatre Vents in L’Ile Bouchard. Guy and Nadine had just relocated from Paris and following their dream opened a restaurant in this town on the banks of the Vienne. As we were both rookies following our dream, we made sure to include their restaurant in our cycle tours.
The food is simple but delicious, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients. Traditional methods combined with regional recipes create a magnificent combination that satisfies the hungriest of cyclists. I would look forward to leafing through old cook books and discussing with Guy how to create the best meals from local ingredients.
 We approached him with an idea that would allow him to combine his passion for food with his passion for teaching. The Loire cooking class was born. Four members of the cycle tour (we picked straws), signed on to prepare the lunch under the direction and guidance of Monsieur Jouteux. Arriving early in the morning, carrying the produce we had purchased the day before at the market in Chinon we started to work. All of the aspiring Chefs were experienced but we quickly learned that we were sadly lacking in technique. For example I failed miserably at peeling carrots! Under Guy’s ever watchful eye we put together a three course meal for 12. It was fast and frantic (not quite Hell’s Kitchen) but at the end there was time for a glass of wine, Guy’s special chicken pate and Nadine’s jellied fruit confections. We discussed the “state of French cuisine” and how it was learning to cook in Paris. However the cyclists soon arrived and it was all hands on deck making sure that everyone received their well earned lunch. All in all it was a unique experience for everyone.
WINE
The Loire is one of France's main wine producing regions, and offers an incredible variety. Lighter reds are often served slightly chilled and Chinon and Bourgueil are among some of the best reds in this region, while the Vouvray white can be very good too. The most renowned wines include Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé: dry, crisp whites with a real 'zing'.
CHINON
Day 1: Our meeting point is the train station in Chinon. We then have a 15 minute drive to Huismes. Our farmhouse is situated a short distance from the village. Take the afternoon to settle in, test drive your bike and explore your new neighbourhood!
AZAY LE RIDEAU
Day 2: This morning we are off to explore the stunning chateau at Azay le Rideau. En route a most pleasant ride through the Chinon forest, a hunting reserve for the kings of France. Anyone for wild boar?
CRISSAY SUR MANSE
Day 4: En route to one of the most beautifully situated villages in France, we will cycle through the carefully manicured vineyards of Cabernet Franc, the local cepage. Crissay sur Manse comes complete with castle ruins, a quaint auberge, and picturesque cottages. We might even practice our cooking skills under the tutelage of Guy Jouteux, the patron of Les Quatre Vents in L’Ile Bouchard.
LANGEAIS
Day 6: A delightful ride along the riverbank takes us to the medieval fortress of Langeais. Here we will enjoy one of the best markets in the Loire. Our circle route back takes us via the fairy tale castle at Usse. You will quickly understand how it became the inspiration for the tale of Sleeping Beauty.
VILLANDRY
Day 8: A long ride today, culminating in a visit to one of the most beautiful formal gardens in France. Villandry is dominated by the chateau and its garden. We stop for lunch at a ferme auberge and partake of the magnificent local produce.
Tour dates: July 6 to July 14, 2010 | 8 SPACES LEFT!
Tour dates: July 16 to July 24, 2010 | 6 SPACES LEFT!
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