Experience - Bonbon Maison

Experience

A surprisingly different France

Our ‘bonbons’ are hidden away on the border between Touraine and Poitou – little gems in a landscape that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. Here, a backdrop of rolling hills, vineyards and majestic castles unfolds, still whispering tales of the French monarchy of the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. This special area is the starting point for a journey of discovery full of flavour and charm. Let yourself be guided past intimate winegrowers and renowned wineries, enjoy hidden village restaurants (including some with Michelin recognition) and taste the authentic cuisine of the region.

Our tip: be sure to visit Fossé Saint Ange in Richelieu for a culinary experience of the highest order. Park your car in the village square and stroll through this unique, atmospheric town. And be sure to book an evening at our own ‘Table d’hôte’ in advance, where we will delight your taste buds with love from our own kitchen…

CITIES FULL OF CHARM

Worth visiting

Tours

Also known as 'Little Paris' – and believe us, that says it all!

Saumur

With its magnificent castle, fascinating museums and mysterious cave dwellings that once served as hiding places for the Huguenots. Now they are used by wineries and mushroom growers – how French do you want it to be?

Chinon

A town steeped in history, where narrow streets, half-timbered houses and an impressive castle transport you back to the Middle Ages.

Poitiers

A little further south, student life is buzzing! Full of bars, terraces and restaurants, and the imposing Notre-Dame la Grande in the heart of the city. Stroll around, explore... and settle down with a drink.

WINE LOVERS & FOODIES

Welcome to the Loire Valley – France’s largest wine region. Here you can taste life in all its flavours. Whether you prefer red, white, rosé or sparkling wine, you will discover it all in this ‘Valley’. The main grape varieties – Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc and Pinot Noir – form the basis of wines that are renowned worldwide.

From BONBON MAISON, you can easily plan your own Route du Vin along beautiful wineries and authentic domaines. For the finest ‘bubbles’, visit Maison Ackerman or Gratien & Meyer in the direction of Saumur and be sure to stop off at Candes-Saint-Martin, Montsoreau and Fontevraud-l’Abbaye along the way.

In the Chinon district, you can taste sublime Chinon wines, for example at Château de la Grille, just above the town. Chances are you won’t go home empty-handed! Passionate winemakers are also waiting for you in Cravant-les-Côteaux and Panzoult, so be sure to leave some space in the boot.

PICNICING & MORE . . .

In addition to idyllic picnics on the banks of the Vienne and Loire rivers, the region also offers charming lakes where you can relax and unwind.

Visit Base de Loisirs de Moncontour, for example, with its small beach, bar and tele-water skiing facilities, or Lac de St Cyr, where you will also find the beautiful Golf du Haut Poitou golf course – ideal for a relaxing day in the open air.

Don’t forget to bring your puzzle book and a set of Jeu de Boules for a touch of French conviviality!