Festival of Tomato and Flavors

Tomato and Flavors Festival in Montlouis-sur-Loire

The Tomato and Flavors Festival is a unique event held every September at the Château de la Bourdaisière in Montlouis-sur-Loire. This festival celebrates the tomato in all its diversity and highlights the authentic flavors of the region, set within an estate that houses the National Tomato Conservatory.

The Tomato Conservatory

The Conservatory Kitchen Garden at the Château de la Bourdaisière is a one-of-a-kind site in France, bringing together over 800 tomato varieties from around the world. From cherry tomatoes to beefsteaks, and from black to striped varieties, this exceptional collection showcases the incredible biodiversity of this fruit-vegetable. The festival is the perfect opportunity to visit the conservatory and discover rare and heirloom varieties.

Tastings and Culinary Discoveries

The festival features a wide range of gourmet activities: blind tastings to identify different varieties, culinary demonstrations by chefs, a tomato bar, a juice bar, and more. Visitors can experience the tomato in unexpected ways and learn how to cook it using a variety of techniques.

A Market with Fifty Exhibitors

Around fifty exhibitors are on hand to offer seeds and plants of heirloom and original varieties, culinary products made from tomatoes, decorative items, cosmetics, and wellness products. It is a great chance to pick up rare seeds for your own garden and discover high-quality artisanal goods.

Lectures and Workshops

The program includes lectures on biodiversity, eco-friendly gardening, and nutrition, as well as hands-on workshops for both children and adults. The castle's Dahliacolor dahlia collection adds a floral touch to the event. In recent years, an escape game called "Les graines d'Angelier" located in the castle's troglodyte caves has further enriched the activities on offer.

An Exceptional Heritage Setting

The Château de la Bourdaisière, a Renaissance residence surrounded by a vast park, provides an idyllic backdrop for this event. Located in Montlouis-sur-Loire, between Tours and Amboise, the estate blends historical heritage with a passion for plants, making the festival a complete cultural and sensory experience.