5 Most Charming Château Hotels in the Loire Valley for a Regal Stay
2. Domaine de la Tortinière
Domaine de la Tortinière is a four-star 19th-century château hotel in the Loire Valley, originally built as a family estate in the 1860s.
Over time, it was transformed into an elegant retreat, preserving its historic character. A 19th-century château with its grand façade and surrounding parkland, it’s a classic example of French elegance, with its turreted towers, slate roof, and ivy-clad stone walls.
Its secluded location provides a peaceful escape while remaining close to Tours and major Loire Valley attractions.
Domaine de la Tortinière website
Location
The château sits in Montbazon, about 15 kilometers south of Tours. It’s an easy base for exploring the Loire Valley’s famous châteaux and vineyards.
The estate covers 15 hectares, with wooded grounds and terraces overlooking the Indre River.
Despite its secluded feel, it’s a short drive from major Loire Valley sights like Château de Villandry and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau.
Rooms
Château de la Tortinière offers five room types, all with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.
Chambres Charme (20m²) offer classic decor, located in the château or nearby buildings. Chambres Prestiges (30m²) have garden views. Chambres Élégance (35m²) feature a terrace or garden view.
Suites Pavillon (40m²) have a balcony or terrace overlooking the Indre Valley.
Suites Château (40m²) are set in the château’s turrets with a separate lounge and stunning valley views.
Notable Amenities
The château’s heated outdoor pool is set within the park, offering a scenic place to unwind.
A tennis court and billiards room provide entertainment, while the small spa offers massages and a sauna.
The estate’s ample grounds invite leisurely walks, with shaded paths leading to river views. The hotel also provides bicycles for exploring nearby villages.
Dining
The restaurant features a bright glass-enclosed dining area and a spacious terrace overlooking the Indre Valley and the wooded park.
The chef and team focus on local products from Touraine, such as Marigny Marmande truffles, Racan pigeon, Rivarennes dried pears, Sainte-Maure de Touraine goat cheese, and rillons.
The menu includes gastronomic and vegan options, with a special menu for children. Pets are not allowed in the restaurant.
Customer Feedback Summary
The hotel is often praised for its beautiful chateau, peaceful setting, and well-maintained grounds. Many guests love the spacious, comfortable rooms, particularly those in the outbuildings, which are well-furnished and air-conditioned.
Staff are frequently described as friendly and accommodating, with some going above and beyond. The restaurant receives high marks for its excellent breakfast and gourmet dinners, though service can be slow, especially when the restaurant is full.
Some complaints focus on outdated or awkwardly designed bathrooms, with separate toilet closets and poor shower layouts. Dinner portions can be small for the price, and WiFi is unreliable outside the reception area.
A few guests reported negative experiences with management regarding billing issues. Overall, a charming stay with some areas needing improvement.