Experience a day of art and culture, combining visits to Azay-le-Rideau and l’Islette castles with a wicker workshop in the Loire Valley.
Join an artist and passionate wicker expert on a captivating journey into the world of traditional craftsmanship. Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, her workshop welcomes you with open arms and promises a unique wicker workshop combining art, history and hands-on learning. After this wicker workshop in the Loire Valley, discover two magnificent Loire castles: Azay-le-Rideau and L’Islette.
©Pixabay
Wicker workshop
Your stay begins with a warm welcome from an artist and passionate wicker specialist, nestled in a charming garden. She’ll reveal the secrets of her craft, from sourcing willow branches to soaking them in the nearby stream. You’ll then enter the family’s charming historic workshop. Get ready to unleash your inner craftsman! Under the expert guidance of this artist, you’ll learn the age-old techniques of handling willow branches, transforming them into magnificent wicker creations. You’ll experience the satisfaction of making a unique object with your own hands during this wicker workshop in the Loire Valley!
Azay-le-Rideau castle
This picturesque château stands gracefully on the tranquil waters of the Indre, its delicate facade reflected in the water’s surface. Surrounded by lush parkland and open woods, Azay-le-Rideau castle is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, embodying all the refinement, elegance and grace expected of a Loire château. With your dedicated guide, explore its grand halls, adorned with draperies and refined furnishings, and let yourself be carried away by the captivating history that unfolds within its walls.
©ADT Touraine – Leonard de Serres
©ADT Touraine – David Darrault
L’Islette castle
Nestled on a charming island formed by a meander in the Indre River, Château de l’Islette offers a unique blend of Renaissance charm and modern comforts. Originally built in the 15th century, the château has been lovingly restored and remains a private residence, adding to its mystique. Stroll through the gardens, park and surrounding waters and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. During the summer months of 1892 and 1893, the château witnessed the passionate love affair and artistic collaboration between the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin and his talented protégé, Camille Claudel.
This unique experience combines the art of wicker weaving with the magic of the Loire Valley. From learning ancient techniques to exploring majestic castles, your journey will be filled with unforgettable moments, enriching your understanding of French culture and sparking your creativity.
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Testimonials
A superb collaboration during an event with Loire Secrets. The team is really friendly and available. A top organization. We recommend with your eyes closed!
The Calliope Travel team
Very good experience.. A wonderful stay. Very well organized..I recommend..It was perfect..To do again without hesitation…Thank you France Trip Secrets…
Great attention paid to the customer’s wishes. Good humor and unfailing professionalism. It’s a real pleasure to work with France Trip Secrets!
Whether for our professional event or for our reunion event with friends, the Loire Secret team did double duty.
A successful evening and weekend
Bravo for these 2 exceptional organizations.
We will do it again for sure!!!
© Léonard de Serres
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the wicker workshop?
An artist and wicker specialist welcomes you in her garden and explains her craft, from sourcing willow branches to soaking them in the nearby stream. You then move into her family's historic workshop and learn traditional weaving techniques to make your own wicker object.
What is Azay-le-Rideau castle like?
Azay-le-Rideau is a Renaissance château standing on the Indre River, its facade reflected in the water. It is surrounded by parkland and woods. With your guide you visit its halls, decorated with draperies and fine furniture, and hear the history of the place.
Why is Château de l’Islette famous?
L'Islette stands on an island formed by a bend in the Indre. Built in the 15th century, it is still a private residence. In the summers of 1892 and 1893, Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel stayed here during their love affair and artistic partnership.
Are Azay-le-Rideau and L’Islette close to each other?
Yes. Both châteaux sit on the Indre River, a few minutes' drive apart, which makes it easy to see them on the same day as the wicker workshop. Your driver-guide handles every transfer, so you can relax between the craft session in the morning and the castle visits.
image sources:
- Detail of part of the gardens of the Chambord Castle in France: Saturnino Perez Garrido
- France Trip Secrets – VIP experiences in Brittany – ©BERTHIER Emmanuel: ©BERTHIER Emmanuel
- France Trip Secrets – Fontevraud Royal Abbey ©Christophe MARTIN – Anjou Tourisme: ©Christophe MARTIN - Anjou Tourisme
- France Trip Secrets – Wellness stay in Brittany – ©Castelbrac: J-L T
- France Trip Secrets – VIP experiences hot air balloon ride Loire Valley – © Léonard de Serres: © Léonard de Serres
