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.

A FABULOUS CASTLE

WARWICK CASTLE 

Warwick Castle, dominates the city of Warwick, England giving one a unique window into the past. It is generally believed to be the finest medieval castle in England. Built on a cliff, its 60 acres of meticulously manicured grounds contain several lovely gardens.

            Built in the 12^th century by William the Conqueror, this castle has two uneven towers. The Caesar Tower, built in 1356, is 147-feet tall, while Guy’s tower, 1380, is only 128-feet tall. The intentional irregular design allowed defenders numerous points of defense. There are 537 steps to the top of the Caesar Tower, and once you start up there is no turning back.

     Proud, colorful peacocks are permanent residents on the grounds. Huge various colored rhododendrons were in full bloom forming a lovely backdrop to the gray stone of the castle. The roses in the rose garden were covered with buds about ready to burst open.

In the great hall of the castle is a fine collection of medieval armor and weaponry. Historic furniture and old master paintings are housed throughout. The living quarters were occupied as late as the 1970s. A few years ago Madam Tussuad purchased the castle. Her magnificent life-size wax figures in twelve of the rooms in the living quarters are exquisite, and add personality to the rooms and a great deal of reality to the exhibit. My favorite was the maid in the bathroom drawing water for her lady. She was bending over the tub of running water, so life-like that nearly everyone did a double take, even though we knew the figures were not real.

Many of the woodcarvings left me gasping at the fine workmanship and intricacy. There were many medieval demonstrations taking place on the grounds.

Children delighted in the ghost tower where the queues (lines) were long.

     There was the most magnificent bald eagle I’ve ever seen just inside the grounds. I just stood and watched  him a long time. He was gorgeous!

            Of all the castles I’ve visited Warwick is one of my top three. It is superb!