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Loire Valley

Blois is a Delightful Town

I love Blois! It is a delightful town full of charming shops, hilly streets, great restaurants and, of course, the château.  We spent several days here and some of our favorite memories are of wandering the streets early in the morning before the hustle and bustle of the day had begun. [caption id="attachment_2119" ...

Château de Chambord is a Feast for the Eyes

Château de Chambord, oh how I love your architectural design! This Loire Valley château was started in 1510 by François I upon his return from Milan. Thus, it is strongly influence by Italian Renaissance architectural style.   [caption id="attachment_4326" align="aligncenter" width="600"] Château de ...

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Château de Chinon – French Castles of the Loire Valley

Read my story in French » Château de Chinon is perched majestically above the Vienne River and if you want a truly spectacular view then I suggest visiting the little park just across the river from the Château before you cross the main bridge into town. Late afternoon with the sun shining on the Château is truly ...

Château de Chenonceau

Château de Chenonceau is undoubtedly tops for exterior architecture and gardens. I absolutely love the architectural design of Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley. The expanse of the  Château that spans the River Cher constitutes the  great gallery/hall, used as used as a ballroom. It is 60 meters by 6 meters ...

Château du Moulin

Château du Moulin, which dates from the end of the 15th century, is nestled in the Sologne forest south of Blois and just west of Romorantin-Lanthenay at the end of a private road. The sign at the gate beckons you to follow the road on foot where you arrive at a private residence.  Had it not been for this small sign we ...

Chaumont sur Loire – a Chateau Perched on the Loire

Perched above the town, the château of Chaumont sur Loire is set on a bluff overlooking the Loire River between Amboise and Blois. Chaumont, built in the 10th century as a fort, was to protect Blois from feudal attacks. The fortress burned in 1465 and then rebuilt. The towers you see are 20 meters high (over 65 feet) and the ...

Clos Lucé is one of 2 French Castles in Amboise

Amboise has two French castles: Clos Lucé and the Château d'Amboise. The manor house of Clos Lucé belonged to the King of France, François I. In 1516 Leonardo da Vinci came to France at the King's invitation and here he resided the last three years of his life. He brought with him several of his painting, the most ...