The house dates to 1861 and has been completely redone by the owners. They kept all the original architectural features of the home, but added very chic modern bathrooms. There are 6 guest rooms with private baths. The grounds have lovely old cedar and hardwood trees, some of which must be 200-300 years old.
Our room has a private terrace with a view of the pool. We are making La Touche our base for the next 3 days as we tour some more chateaux. But first, a birthday lunch for Tim in the nearby village of Cheverny.
For lunch, Tim selected a glass of champagne and a chocolate crepe. What else? After all, it is France and it is vacation and it is his birthday! Joyeaux anniversaire, Timmy!
And then there was the birthday dinner at L'Orangerie de Chateaux, a fine restaurant in the old orange tree conservatory of the royal chateaux in Blois.
First course was a skewer of warm langostines (crayfish) with gazpacho and spicy avocado puree.
And then Tim had lamb with stuffed zucchini, and I had perch from the Loire River served on a bed of local mushrooms sauteed in butter and spices.
Followed by the usual assortment of French cheeses. And I have to say, so far our impression is that the French can do wine, cheese, and architecture exceptionally well!
Oh, and did I mention the desserts? They seem to have mastered that one too. It was like all the desserts you ever wanted at one time as a kid--and no one's mother there to say "Pick one, honey." We ate them all, I am sorry to say--sorry because now I will have to do TWO hours of cardio in the morning!
Happy Birthday, Tim ! We almost missed it, but it's only 5 pm in Costa Rica, so it still counts as a birthday wish today. Will toast you with Scotch Pleases in the Man Cave. D & R
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