Thanks so much for this. Have alreay organised car hire rental and managed to track down some wonderful-looking restaurants (at least they look wonderful from the websites) that tell me they will cater for my 'veggie' needs. I'll keep my fingers crossed. There's too much to see and do, so we'll just have to limit out time travelling - after all, we want to have a rest as well.

All the best

Tim

ps any idea what the dress code is in the more up-market restaurants?

Last year we ate at LeChoiseul restaurant (in the hotel of the same name) which is apparently well-known, highly rated, and supposedly quite "upmarket."

We showed up in coats and ties and were the only men there dressed at that level (other than some of the staff). There was a wide variety of dress from shorts to what most would probably call "smart casual."

We, and several others, got what I would consider "good" tables (in this case by the window overlooking the river) so the "dress level" didn't seem to affect that.

Everyone was treated with great respect near as I could tell and I suspect the service was equal to all. Whether or not anyone was turned away because of their dress by being told there were no tables available I have no idea.

In Amboise I somehow doubt you have to be "really dressed up" if our experience is any representative example.

And I hope you have a great trip, too.

Just read a book by some guy who cycled from Dublin to northern Italy following the footsteps of St. Colomban [sic] including following the Loire for a long stretch. He often walked into quite flash establishments wearing his cycle gear and had no problems at all. So I don't think that you need to worry on that score!

To Dukey:

Hi there and thanks for comments on your attire. Always amused by the reception of foreigners. Have heard stories that the locals are always given the best tables and served first - perhaps this is apocryphal.

To Annhig:

Curious to know what that book was.

All the best

PS Anyone know what the weather is likely to be like in early September? Surely it can't be as hot as it has been in London!

There seemed to be few locals in the restaurant that night..mostly visitors from various countries near as I could tell.

Hello,

for lovely accomodation the Loire Valley please take a look at
www.charming-french-hotels.com
Plenty of choice, especially in the countryside.

Have a nice trip
Suzanne

If you decide to go to Villandry, you might want to check out a quaint-looking country inn on a working goat form - L'Etape Gourmande ( http://www.letapegourmande.com/indexen.html )It's run by a woman and her daughter.

They have some information on the types of food they prepare and the emphasis seems to be on goat cheese (very fresh I'm sure) as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. I'm sure a vegetarian could be very happy here - even goat cheese ice cream! I have not eaten here but have reservations for our trip in September. A visit to Villandry is a must for anyone who loves gardens, cooking or both. The herb/vegetable gardens and fruit trees are supposed to be spectacular.