The Loire Valley is known for its incredible food and wine, as the home of Sancerre and Chinon, as well as some of France's best local delicacies. 2019 is the ideal time to taste the specialties of the region, when more than 500 events are taking place in honor of the 500th anniversary of the French Renaissance, some of which transport guests back to the Renaissance period. Below is a sampling of some of the best food and wine experiences for travelers to sample this year:
RENAISSANCE-PERIOD TASTINGS
EXPERIENCING THE LOCAL WINE REGIONS
RENAISSANCE EVENTS
Below are some of the many ongoing events happening in the Loire Valley this year in honor of the 500th Anniversary of the French Renaissance that shouldn't be missed:
A Contemporary Homage to Leonardo da Vinci (until November 3, 2019) This exhibit will present the many facets of Leonardo da Vinci's work as seen through thirty well-known contemporary artists. They will focus on his self-portraits, portraits of women, extraordinary machines, drapery, anatomy, historical painting, codices and scenery. Chateau du Rivau is a medieval castle owned by a French family, who transformed the massive grounds into fairytale-inspired gardens, with incredible grand artworks displayed throughout; in September 2018, they unveiled seven guest rooms in the castle's former stables.