Despite beautiful weather the past few days, today we wake up to some rain, but that doesn't hinder our visit to the Château de Villandry. (Besides, any day that begins with fresh croissants, baguettes, cheese, and thirty types of jam, cannot go wrong!)
While gorgeous in architecture and renovation, Villandry is not on the same scale as Chenonceau. Rather it is noted for its many themed gardens. Eight gardeners tend to them full time -- look at their beautiful work!
We have now arrived in Azay-le-Rideau!
Next we visit Château Azay-le-Rideau in the town of the same name. A portable audio guide explains each of the rooms in depth.
Beautifully furnished and surrounded by peaceful gardens, the estate is also a short walk to town, where we had lunch, followed by a visit to an irresistable gelato shop, whose friendly owner makes all the flavors in-house.
"Trois boules, s'il vous plait!"
The rest of the day is free to see Chinon, but most of us get together to explore the medieval castle. Unlike the previous châteaux, Chinon's castle is a little boy's dream come true. Flash back to when you were six years old, a knight in his castle... nearly the entire site (dungeons, drawbridges, towers and all) is open for exploration. Who knows where those steep staircases lead to in the darkness? What awaits around the next corner?
The wind blows through the cracks and plays tricks on your ears. You are alone... or are you?
The wind blows through the cracks and plays tricks on your ears. You are alone... or are you?