Early rise this morning as off on a day tour of the Chateau around Tours. At the meeting point at 9 after brekky at the hotel and off we went in small transporter style VW with 2 other couples , 1 with 2 young boys. Note Jane's idea of holidays means NO children under 21 within 100m let alone the same vehicle.
First stop was Chateau Villandry to see the amazing gardens, not the Chateau. It was all we expected from one of the best gardens in Europe and could have spent more time there, but its a tour so on we go to the next. Bit of an overcast day but no rain and that's the main thing by me.
Next stop was Château Azay le Rideau, only about 20 minutes away and this was unknown by name to me but was identifiable on arrival. Totally different gardens, English style, but early renaissance Chateau built in 1510 on the earlier fortress on that site. Under restoration inside but still exquisite building and the moats, lake and towers fantastic. Really enjoyed wandering around this place. Then back to Tours for some lunch before embarking on the afternoon part at 1pm.
Dumped the family and now only the 4 of us and the guide, Jane much happier.:-) Château De Chenonceau was the first stop; the 5 ladies chateau, and once again a different style. Massive buildings, moats, a river , 2 formal gardens 1 farm garden, maze, oak lined avenues, the list goes on. This chateau is built out on the water and was fascinating in building design and the decor of all the rooms. Only issue was unlike the others a hell of a lot of people here.
Finally Chateau Amboise which is the Royal chateau, built on the hill. Very pretty from the outside and stunning views of the town below and the Loire river, but must have been chateau'ed out as the least favourite. Had some time to spare so was able to get a coffee and another pastry before the next move. Santa job is starting to look a certain after SOOoo much food:-)
Onto Cave DE Plou and Fils for a tour of the cellars and winery, followed by a little wine tasting. Loire wine of the Tourraine appleation, sauvginon blanc, chemin blanc and bubbles were all nice, reds average. Then was back to Tours after a long and enjoyable day.
Wandered out for a bit of dinner about 8 and bumped into the couple Mort and Yuko from California, who we had just spent the day with. They were looking for somewhere to eat also so we joined and dined at the Le Bouchon restaurant were we had some great food, pleasant wine and lovely company to end the day with.
Last ones left in the restaurant at the end so we finished up and bid au revoir before heading our separate ways as both moving on in different directions tomorrow. Sometimes good things just fall in place.
So many more photos of the gardens and Chateau but will have to wait.
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