We just returned from spending ten unforgettable days at la Vernelle. The location is idyllic, on the beautiful grounds of the owners' chateau. We spent many hours on the terrace overlooking the meadow where two horses and Gaston the donkey grazed. It is very peaceful there, and it was a joy to awaken to a chorus of birdsong. Amboise with its chateau, markets, shops and restaurants is a lovely town >> we took advantage of Pascale's excellent recommendations on where to buy chocolate, croissants, pastries, and meals. We are SO glad we chose Amboise over the bustle of Blois or Tours: it is a very walkable city and is situated within easy driving distance of various chateaux. As garden-lovers, we especially enjoyed the gardens at Villandry and the International Garden Festival at Chaumont-sur-Loire.
La Vernelle was built in the 17th century but the interior was completely redone in 2013. In the renovation Pascale did a marvelous job of combining tradition and modernity, beauty with utility and comfort. We loved taking coffee on the terrace in the morning, relaxing there upon returning from excursions, hanging out there on the day it rained, and preparing meals in the well-equipped kitchen with fresh food from the market. We explored the "troglo" behind the house and walked the forest paths with our canine companion Joufflue.
Pascal and Pascale gave us a very warm welcome along with a bottle of sparkling Vouvray wine, and made sure we knew they were there to help if we needed it. They truly made us feel at home. Their property is one of the most beautiful spots we have had the pleasure to visit, and we are very grateful that they so graciously shared it with us.