FRANCE'S LOIRE VALLEY

                                         A Charming Area

           

The Loire Valley was once the setting for the French court. This chateaux country is where England battled for the control of France. It was an area of great opulence during the 16^th century. In the land where Joan of Arc triumphed, today it is a region of lovely chateaux and parks. The Loire Valley is rich with meandering streams, patchwork fields, cool forests, majestic oaks, quiet roads, and lush green countryside. Its royal châteaux and pastoral villages grace its overwhelming natural beauty.   Picturesque cobblestone streets and breathtaking architectural masterpieces provide tiny discoveries hidden in the inviting gentle folds of the landscape. Agriculture includes vineyards, feed corn and sunflowers. The area is known for its white wine.

Each small town seemed to be more picturesque than the previous one. We enjoyed crepes in Tours after determining with a waitress who spoke sporadic English that scratched eggs were indeed scrambled eggs. There’s nothing better than a yummy dessert crepe to top off a lunch at a French sidewalk café! 

The impressive Chateau de Chenonceaux--- a jewel of renaissance architecture, graces the pretty town of Amboise. Sitting peacefully on the banks of the Cher River, Chenonceaux is well-known for its traditional French gardens and rich history. The grounds and river are a spectacular backdrop for the impressive structure. The estate of Chenonceaux is mentioned for the first time in writing toward the end of the 11^th century.  From the 13^th to the 15^th century, the estate with its unprepossessing feudal manor was the property of the Marques family.  In 1411 a royal order to punish Jean Marques for an act of sedition included an order for the destruction of the manor.   In 1432 Jean Marques had a castle and a fortified mill built to replace the lost manor.

The ceiling was different in each room. The chateau is full of beautiful large tapestries. One was quite unusual because it was done in tones of blue. Three of the huge marble fireplaces were carved and gorgeous. The rest of the fireplaces in the home were large but plain. The floors were generally tile, but one room had a floor design made with orange and rust 3-inch tiles. The big hall was done in 12-inch black and white tiles. The white ones were a porous material and the tiles quite worn. The kitchens were in the basement. The three floors of the chateau were accessed via winding staircases with rope hand rails.

            We had good views of the gardens across the mote from rooms on each side of the castle. They are extensive, gorgeous and I have no idea how many gardeners it takes to keep them.

            I once thought about biking the Loire Valley, but after seeing it another way I’m not sure I wouldn’t be stopping so often enjoying it all that I’d never finish—but that wouldn’t have been so bad. If you’re ever in the Loire Valley allow yourself plenty of time to visit castles as I’m sure any one you chose will be well worth your time.