Villandry

Although many of the Loire Valley’s castles offer stunning gardens and beautifully decorated apartments, Villandry elevates both landscaping and décor to pure perfection. Wandering through the sun-drenched rooms with French windows framing the world-famous gardens below is a highlight of any Loire Valley trip. Many will be interested to learn that a Pennsylvania family fortune supported Villandry’s rebirth thanks to Ann Coleman, a young heiress from Philadelphia. She wed a dynamic Franco-Spanish doctor, Joachim Carvallo, shortly before he acquired the dilapidated Renaissance-era treasure in 1906. Their calling became restoring Villandry, re-planting its magnificent gardens and garnering international support for opening this castle and other historic properties in France. Their great grandson, Henri Carvallo, lives on site and oversees the family business with care. Plan for at least half a day at Villandry, beginning with a visit inside the castle and continuing with the gardens.