The Slow Fund: Finding Freedom in Creativity

Raman Kaminski is a Belarusian artist who was forced to leave his home country during the protests after the elections in 2020. He sought refuge in Kyiv, Ukraine where he had gone to art school. However, he was soon forced to leave again as a result of the Russian invasion, leaving behind his artwork and materials, and relocating to Georgia with just a suitcase in tow.Meanwhile, a former B&amp;R guide who had worked in Belarus and met Raman had commissioned a painting from him. She had returned to the States and was working on an Artist in Residence program at the Chapelle Ste. Catherine in Fontevraud l’Abbaye, Loire Valley, France. Through connections, Raman was found in Georgia and he was offered to be the first “Artist in Residence”. B&amp;R’s Slow Fund is proud to have sponsored the materials needed for Raman to set up his residency. And he began painting!

After a three-month residency, Raman now calls Paris home where his talent as an artist continues to flourish. He even had the opportunity to connect with B&amp;R travellers during a Bespoke trip to the Loire Valley this summer.&nbsp;Raman's determination and talent as an artist are a true inspiration, and he continues to pursue his dreams despite the obstacles in his path. Recently, Raman had a solo show in Paris, and his most recent work can be viewed on his Instagram page <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ramankaminski/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@ramankaminski</a>.&nbsp;

B&R’s Slow Fund is proud to have sponsored Raman Kaminski, a Belarusian artist who was forced to leave his home country during the protests after the elections in 2020

In the valley of kings, we’ll roll out the red carpet for you. You’ll stay in grand châteaux. You’ll visit Touraine and think you’ve died and gone to epicurean heaven. You’ll join a red-robed fraternity of winegrowers and pay homage to the bacchanal. There are centuries of history here too, and we’ll take you straight to the heart of it. Prepare for the royal treatment.

From fairytale châteaux to scenic riverbanks

Cycle UNESCO châteaux and vineyard roads on small group or private bespoke trips through the Loire Valley, with castle stays and private wine cellars.

Loire Valley Bike Tours | Butterfield & Robinson

Poised on the left bank of the breathtaking Loire River, the Loire Valley is a fairy-tale come to life. Famously nicknamed the “Garden of France” for its abundant fresh produce—there’s a reason Parisians eat so well—and lush green countryside, the region is home to the greatest vineyards of the Old World.&nbsp;Explore brimming markets and opulent châteaux where kings and queens once reigned. Step back in time through medieval villages and meander impenetrable fortresses. From its sophisticated cities to adventure and treasured arts, your time will be extraordinary.

Historic Sites

Exceptional Wines

Unforgettable Experiences

In the Loire Valley, storybook castles, royal sleepovers and vineyard-laced hills are just the beginning. Pedal through lush countryside, raid lively markets and sip vintages fit for kings. Whether you're exploring châteaux or time-travelling through medieval villages, this is fairtyale France—with you as the main character.

Times stands still in the land of châteaux

A fairy-tale landscape where time stands still 

Bespoke travel lets you take our inspirational cues and craft them into your personalized, private adventure. Collaborate one-on-one with an Experience Designer to create your tailor-made trip.

Bike Loire châteaux and taste wines from cliff-carved cellars on a tailor-made itinerary. Private garden tours and estate access most visitors can't arrange.

Loire Valley Private Tours: Royal Châteaux & Cliff-Carved Wine Cellars

Not one but two castles await on this romantic ride through history. Domaine de la Tortiniere opens its Belle Époque doors to B&amp;R, and a private visit to Château du Rivau gives you something in common with Joan of Arc (Would you like to stay in her room? We're drawing straws). After this, slum it with the likes of Richard the Lionheart, Leonardo da Vinci and a locally lauded chef.

Luxurious Stays

Incredible Rides

Unique Gastronomy

Two castles, countless vineyards, and a dash of Joan of Arc (BYO armour). Pedal the Loire’s dreamy countryside from the art-forward forest sanctuary of Loire Valley Lodges to historic Château du Rivau (dibs on Joan’s room, anyone?). Sip top-tier wines, marvel at over-the-top architecture, and relish landscapes so romantic even cynics swoon.

The land of kings

The itinerary below is a sample and is subject to slight changes in routes, accommodations and activities. Please download the itinerary for your selected departure for precise details.

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Experience Designer

Not one but two castles await on this romantic ride through history. Domaine de la Tortiniere opens its Belle Époque doors to B&amp;R, and a private visit to Château du Rivau gives you something in common with Joan of Arc. (Would you like to stay in her room? We're drawing straws.) After this, slum it with the likes of Richard the Lionheart, Leonardo da Vinci, and a locally lauded chef.

Spend 5 nights cycling the Loire in a small group. Three royal châteaux, underground cliff-carved wine cellars and forest routes through France's garden valley.

The Slow Fund: Finding Freedom in Creativity

By Butterfield & Robinson

Loire Valley

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