Are you curious about discovering hidden treasures in France? In this episode of Join Us in France, titled Hidden Gems of the Loire Valley, host Annie Sargent chats with guest Paul Gulesserian to explore some of the lesser-known châteaux and picturesque villages in this beautiful region.

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Paul, a proud Francophile and recent French citizen, shares his adventures as he and his husband Florian venture through the Loire Valley. Rather than focusing on the well-known châteaux, like Chambord and Chenonceau, they explore lesser-known gems such as the Château de Brézé, Château de Montreuil-Bellay, and Château de Brissac. Each one offers something unique, whether it's underground tunnels at Brézé or breathtaking views at Montreuil-Bellay.

Paul's enthusiasm for exploring the charm and history of these often-overlooked sites brings the Loire Valley to life in a fresh and inspiring way. From their cozy stay at Domaine de Mestré to their adventures biking through troglodyte villages and sipping local wines, this episode is filled with travel tips and personal insights into life in France.

Join Annie and Paul as they delve into the magic of these hidden gems. Don’t miss out on this fun and informative episode—tune in now!

Table of Contents for this Episode

• Today on the Podcast
• Podcast Supporters
• Magazine segment
• Bootcamp 2025
• Annie and Paul
• Exploring the Loire Valley
• French Citizenship and Travel Experiences
• Planning and Starting the Loire Valley Trip
• Château Visits and Local Discoveries
• Tips for Driving in France
• Saumur
• Château de Saumur, Musée des Arts Décoratifs et du Cheval
• Château de Brézé
• Château de Montreuil-Bellay
• Ticket prices
• Biking on Day 2
• Domaine des Amandiers
• Exploring Montsoreau and Its Modern Art Chateau
• Discovering the Abbaye Royale Fontevraud
• Chinon and the Challenges of Google Maps for Biking
• Biking Advice
• Château Adventures: From Riveau to Brissac
• Food in the area
• Château de Langeais
• Château de l’Islette
• Château D’Ussé
• Château de Brissac
• Angers
• Château de Speran
• Don’t ignore the Tourist Office
• Restaurant Recommendations
• Sharing Tips about Living in France
• Thank you Patrons
• Annie’s Tours
• Annie’s Itinerary Consultations
• Self-guided GPS tours on the VoiceMap App
• Phone Safety
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright

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