We arrived by bicycles (steep climb) to discover an oasis of charm and elegance. We dove into the pool Neanderthals only to emerge full of sophistication to order a poolside drink. The place is divine, beautiful, peaceful with wonderful service and a fabulous food. Our greatest regret was leaving…

Stayed at La Tortinere during September 2011. The hotel is set in beautiful surroundings with a pool and a tennis court. The room was large and quiet. However, the menu was exactly the same every evening and choice was therefore limited. We did ask for an omelette on two out of the three evenings but this was also a great disappointment - mushrooms and ham just placed next to the omelette instead of mixed in with it. We would stay here again but would choose to dine out in the evening.

We stayed for three nights and were allocated a beautiful room with a wonderful view. The restaurant food was outstanding for dinner but the breakfast was expensive and quite basic. The hotel is quite a drive from Tours but we had a car so it was not a problem. The downside is the high cost of food and drinks at the hotel (€6 for an espresso) and there are no alternatives close by. However, it was a wonderful sojourn and I would return in a flash!

We arrived here in the early evening after a stressful drive from Paris and along the autoroutes - tip, learn how to use French tolls before you go! Driving through the gates was magic, and the tension slipped away as we smiled at the trees and carpet of cyclamens along our path.

On arrival we were greeted by our concierge who had our bags brought up to our room and showed us all the features. We had booked the smallest room available, and I was prepared for something tiny but was pleasantly surprised by our gorgeous little room and surprisingly large bathroom.

The complimentary drink was very nice and being as we were exhausted we elected to have dinner in the restaurant where the service was friendly and attentive and the food plentiful, if not the most amazing that we'd eaten.

The bed was comfortable, and the views from our third floor room amazing. Being on the third floor we had to navigate two staircases, both ancient and squeaky which I loved, but which would be difficult if you have knee or back problems as there is no lift. SImilarly, there is a hidden staircase to take you down to the dining room which is also quite steep.

We loved this hotel and highly recommend it to those wanting to break up a Paris trip with a visit to the Loire. It is convenient but out of the way - I would not recommend it if you don't have a car.