I don’t usually sleep through my alarm, but this morning I did—and I blame Mont Saint-Michel. Yesterday’s full day of exploring left me happily exhausted, but ready for another adventure.
Breakfast was just okay, but the highlight? The make-your-own crêpes station. I couldn’t resist making one with dulce de leche and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. A sweet little reminder that sometimes hotel buffets surprise you in the best way.
We hit the road early, leaving Normandy behind and heading through Bretagne toward Angers. The scenery was peaceful—rolling fields of corn, sunflowers, vineyards, and wheat that made me think about how lovely and simple life might be out here in the French countryside. I could absolutely see myself living in a place like this one day.
Our guide teased us about a surprise stop, telling us we’d be visiting “Mikiyooky” We were all scratching our heads until he finally revealed the joke: McDonald’s—“McYucky” in his words! We had about 20 minutes there, and I grabbed a Coke (only my second of the trip!) and was surprised to see it served in a reusable plastic cup. So smart—and a great reminder that small things can make a big difference.
Angers wasn’t a major stop on the itinerary, but I’m so glad we had time there. I found a quiet little boulangerie tucked away on a corner and had what might be the best sandwich I’ve ever eaten: crusty, fresh bread filled with chicken, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and just the right touch of mayo. It was perfect. I finished with a chocolate éclair and then sat in the town square while Remy happily people-watched. We browsed a few shops afterward—everyone was friendly, the shops were charming, and it felt more like an experience than a chore. Sometimes the unscheduled stops become the most memorable.
After settling into our lovely hotel in Tours, I made a beeline to Starbucks. I had my fingers crossed that they’d have a You Are Here mug for Tours—and they did! The very last one, in the back room. Travel luck was on my side.
This evening, we were guests at the beautiful Château de Nitray. We explored the estate, including a few rooms in the main house, a peaceful chapel, and a pigeonnier—a historic dovecote that once symbolized noble privilege. In France, only the nobility could own these structures, which housed pigeons not just for food, but for their highly prized fertilizer. The number of nests you were allowed often reflected the size of your estate. I love learning these little cultural details—they add such richness to the experience.
The château also has a small winery with 10 acres of vines, and they produce six types of wine. Naturally, we got to enjoy them with dinner—and what a dinner it was.
We started with fruit and ham, followed by a fresh green salad with tender pieces of marinated duck. The main course was chicken with a baked potato and an herby garlic sour cream sauce I’m still thinking about. Then came the cheese course (because France), and a stunning apple tart for dessert. Each course was served with a local wine pairing, and each one somehow felt like it belonged exactly with what we were eating.
It’s hard to imagine topping today, but tomorrow we head to two iconic Loire Valley castles—Chambord and Chenonceau. I can’t wait to see them in person.
À demain!
Cleared For Take-Off! 