Let Victoria’s May/June issue whisk you to the heart of France, where doors to some of the region’s most glorious estates have been thrown open, offering a glimpse into centuries of opulent splendor. Peek inside the country’s largest private residence, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a historic property known for lavish interiors, magnificent gardens, and storied heritage. Visit the Burgundy home of Shannon Grochowski, owner of La Châtelaine Chocolat Co., to sample authentic French fare. In addition, Lady-in-Residence The Countess of Carnarvon unlocks chapters of family lore to share thrilling ancestral adventures in The City of Light and beyond during the early years of car racing and aviation. Inspired by the romantic sanctuary of rose gardens found in abundance across the countryside, we also present an array of blossom-kissed confections that are sure to delight the senses.
Echoes of History
Amid the peaceful embrace of France’s countryside, storied stones and modern-day comforts mingle in the picturesque Abbaye de Reigny. Within this luxurious hotel and event space, travelers find an enchanting escape into heritage and beauty.
La Vie en Rose
The queen of the garden lends her feminine character to this petal-perfect party, delighting the senses with beauty and fragrance.
Gilded Refuge
Providing an opulent backdrop for aristocratic soirées as well as a haven of security during turbulent times, the elegant environs of Château de Valençay echo with stories rich in history and intrigue.
Ode to Glory
Just southeast of Paris, Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, the incredible home of a man who was once among the highest members of King Louis XIV’s court stands as an indelible icon of Renaissance beauty.
Breath of Life
Wafting through an open window at the Burgundy home of chocolatiers Shannon and Wlady Grochowski, a breeze picks up the tantalizing aroma of a savory specialty bubbling on the stove, inviting guests to sample an authentic taste of France.
To Walk with Royalty
Near the historic French town of Amboise, lovers of history and of beauty itself may find themselves welcome at Château Louise de La Vallière, an imaginative and immersive boutique hotel experience set in the seventeenth century.
A Tale in Time
Proudly bearing its distinction as one of France’s most beautiful villages, a picturesque settlement of stone cottages and winding cobbled streets draws sojourners with a taste for history and beauty.
A Match Made in History
Trundling across the French countryside is even more delightful when day’s end promises a peaceful chamber in which to rest for the night. The prospect feels sweeter when surroundings seem designed to welcome a medieval heroine, a sixteenth-century noblewoman, or a modern couple living out their everyday dreams. One château in Bouesse satisfies every expectation.
Sparkling Petals
Incorporating botanicals grown in the herb gardens of the noted estate, Highclere Castle Gin distills centuries of English heritage into an award-winning spirit made for entertaining.
An Inheritance of Grace
Once the cherished country home for a prominent Parisian couple, a neoclassical gem now stands as a lasting treasury of elegance in the heart of the Loire Valley. Here, art, history, and nature intertwine in a lasting tribute to gracious living.
To read these stories and more, collect your copy of the May/June 2025 issue of Victoria magazine today, available on newsstands and at victoriamag.com.
