Taken in Touraine - La Lanterne de Rochecorbon.

There are landmarks you notice so often that they almost become part of the landscape, and in Rochecorbon the Lantern is one of them. Standing above the limestone cliffs beside the Loire, this slender stone tower catches the eye of anyone passing through, yet nobody seems entirely certain of its original purpose.

Known locally as La Lanterne de Rochecorbon, theories range from a medieval watchtower to a symbolic marker connected with river traffic or religious use. Local legend has also added its own layers over time, with stories of secret passages and hidden meanings attached to its solitary position above the troglodyte hillside. What is certain is that it has become one of those familiar Touraine landmarks, quietly watching over the valley while keeping part of its story to itself.

From below, framed against the sky and perched on the pale tuffeau rock, it feels less like a monument and more like a question left unanswered.

“In Touraine, even the silence tells a story.”

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Part of the “Taken in Touraine” Series

Every Thursday, we pause somewhere in Touraine — a village, a vineyard, or a quiet riverside — to capture the spirit of this timeless Loire region.

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Wednesday for windows - sometimes less says more.

There is something quietly satisfying about windows like these in the villages of Touraine. No grand display, just a few carefully chosen details behind the glass. Lace, filtered light and a hint of life indoors.

Preuilly-sur-Claise has long been a place of passage and quiet permanence, once known for its powerful abbey and position on old regional market routes. Walk its streets and small touches still matter: a painted door, an old barrel reused as a planter, curtains chosen as carefully as flowers. Sometimes a little subtle interior window dressing is all you need, proof that understatement can be every bit as rewarding.

“Through every window, the Loire breathes — calm, patient, and quietly luminous.”

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Part of the “Windows of the Loire” Series

Each Wednesday, we share a glimpse of the Loire Valley through its windows — small frames of everyday beauty and quiet reflection.

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Tuesday for towns in the Loire Valley - Villandry

The small village of Villandry which sits on the banks of the river Cher 20km west of Tours plays second fiddle the chateau and its gardens. The villages population of just over 1000 swells during the tourist season to accommodate the 300,000 visitors to the chateau.

There are restaurants and accommodation in the village but it never feels crowded perhaps because the coachloads of sightseers are whisked away to view another one of the regions mighty chateau.

It has an interesting church - Saint Etienne with some frescoes but it is not always open!

As we have said visitors mainly come for the chateau, not the village but it is worth a walk aound!

“Some towns in Touraine speak softly — Villandry is one of them.”

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Part of the “Towns & Villages of the Loire” Series

Exploring the towns and villages of the Loire Valley — their streets, stories, and quiet beauty.

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Monday's chateau - the Royal Lodgings at Loches.

One of the most fascinating stories tied to this château is that of Agnès Sorel, the official mistress of Charles VII. She was given the Royal Lodgings as her residence and lived here in great luxury. Known for her beauty and intelligence, she even dared to wear dresses that revealed her shoulders, considered very bold for the time! Tragically, she died young (possibly from mercury poisoning). Her tomb can still be seen nearby in the Church of Saint-Ours.

Another powerful moment: In June 1429, fresh from her victory at Orléans, Joan of Arc met Charles VII in the Great Hall of these Lodgings and persuaded the hesitant king to travel to Reims to be crowned, a turning point in the Hundred Years’ War.

“Each château tells a story — of kings, of romance,intrigue and of the dream of France itself.”

Part of the “Châteaux of the Loire” Series

Every Monday, we explore one of the Loire Valley’s legendary châteaux — from royal residences to riverside retreats — each revealing a different chapter of the region’s story.

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Mon banc dominical / My Sunday Bench - could be standing-room only at Chedigny today.

Not sure you will get near this bench today as it's the second day of the  annual rose festival at Chedigny and it is very popular.

“On Sundays, the Loire speaks softly — and you have time to listen.”

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Part of the “My Sunday Bench” Series

Each Sunday, we share a quiet bench somewhere in the Loire — a small reminder that peace is often found where you simply stop to notice it.

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On the Streets of Touraine – Montrésor

Never tire of this view of one of the 'Les-Plus-Beaux-Villages-de-France'. Walking along this narrow cobbled street in Montrésor the village feels perfectly preserved, peaceful, photogenic and full of quiet charm.

Montrésor is one of the smallest and most enchanting villages in the Loire Valley. The medieval castle and the gentle pace of life here make it a favourite stop for those exploring beyond the big châteaux.

Bon samedi dans la Touraine !

“The streets here don’t hurry. They simply invite you to walk, to notice, to belong.”

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Part of the “On the Streets of the Loire” Series

Each Saturday, we stroll through the lanes and cobbles of Loire towns and villages — places where every step feels like a story.

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