Chateau Cheverny
Privately owned for over six centuries you can view all the rooms and furnishings unchanged. A comfortable golf buggy can transport you around the scenic grounds. Opposite there's a fine bistro 'Le Pichet'. Don't miss the Tin Tin museum and the boat ride around the ground's own private canal.
www.chateau-cheverny.fr
route de nationale t: 02 54 79 96 29
Jewel of the Loire - Chenonceau
Otherwise known as the ‘Château des Femmes' (Don’t forget to venture into the maze and visit the wax museum exhibiting garments worn at balls by the woman of Chenoceau). New iPods are available to recount the history of each room.
Lunch at the Cafeteria or choose a little bistro in the town of Chenonceau a couple of minutes walk from the chateau.
www.chenonceau.com
Chenonceau, 37150 t: 02 47 23 90 07
The Royal City of Loche
This medieval town holds many surprises, including a working torture chamber, (well it hasn't been used for a while) dungeons and tunnels that give a glimpse of the arduous middle ages.
Chateau de Loches is one of oldest castles in the Loire, built in the 11th Century it was once the home of Agnés Sorel, mistress of Charles VII. Renown for her beauty, sex appeal and intelligence her influence over the King was envied at court and it is suspected she was poisoned by mercury. Don't miss the dungeons and a gentle wonder around the town. Lunch at the Gerbe D'or or there are numerous 'moins cher' bistros close by to the chateau.
www.chateau-loches.fr
Chateau de Amboise
One of the more imposing chateaus of the Loire with telescopic views of the village Amboise and its surrounds. Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb rests in the Chateau’s church.
Deep with history from the days of Charles VIII and François 1st. The Chateau's grounds are not as pretty as Villandry or Chenonceau but enjoyable. In Summer there's a night spectacle, and while it is in French, still impressive and a theatrical insight into the castle's history. Combine this visit with Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo and home to many of his inventions (reproductions), scale models and an opportunity to interact with the larger scale models in the gardens.
www.chateau-amboise.com
Amboise, 471230, t: 47 57 00 98
Tours sur Loire
Each year from end of May until mid September, the banks of the Loire are transformed into a lively place for a little music, dining and dancing. A young crowd follows, as well as numerous musicians and buskers. Access is via 'Pont Wilson' and there's a different program of activities organised by the Mairie (Council) and regional Tourism Boards. It's a great spot for families day and night.
www.tours.fr
Pont Wilson, Tours 37000
Chateau Montreuil-Bellay
Spend the day exploring the extensive grounds over 1,000 acres. Afterwards, why not book a wine tasting from one of the Chateau's own vintages. Must be pre-booked but what a nice way to spend an afternoon! Visit from April- until late Oct. Closed Nov - April
www.Chateau-de-montreuil-bellay.fr
49260 Montreuil-Bellay, t: 33 2 41 52 33 06
Wine Tasting at a wonderful Chateau
What a great day out. Sipping local wines in an elegant chateau with the winemaker. There's also a great selection of recipes to match with these wines from the Loire Valley.
www.chateaudelavrillaye.com
37120Chaveignes t: 33 (0)2 47 58 24 40
Chateau de Valmer
A wonderful chateau to taste and discover wines of the Loire, particularly those of Vouvray. Sweet and crisp. Afterwards, explore the vast and unique gardens; enviable in the spring and summer months.
Open 1 May – 30 June weekends and public holidays
1 July – 31 August daily (closed Mondays)
10am – 7pm
1 Sept – 12 Oct daily (except Mondays) 10am – 12.30 then 2pm – 6pm
Entry €8. Photo copyright MG de Saint Venant.
www.chateau-de-valmer.com
Chançay Vouvray Val de Loire t: 02 47 52 93 12