We left Paris for the Loire Valley, stopping by Orléans until we reached the small village of Valaire for our two-night stay at L’Herbe Rouge.
Valaire is situated in the department of Loire-et-Cher and Centre-Loire Valley region. It’s a 20-minute drive to its prefecture Blois or nearly an hour to Tours.
L’Herbe Rouge was picture perfect. The charming bistro sprawls out into a lively terrace. Car loads pulling in to enjoy lunch, with another wave hitting for dinner.
Out back, colourful lounges are the perfect spot to soak up sunshine, breathe in the country air and pop a bottle of local bubbles.
The current owner Sophie Rabeyran-Haudebourg took over the restaurant and lodgings from its original owner Cécile Argondico 2018. The essence of L’Herbe Rouge remains true — with home cooking, local and organic produce and natural wines are its core. Each day Sophie creates a simple three course menu for lunch and dinner. Rustic yet inspiring, served alongside natural wines from the region.
Above the bistro are three gîtes. Each with bedrooms, kitchen and living room. The walls adorned with iconic wine posters and photos of winemakers. We loved our stay here. Such a magical little spot.