Château de Chenonceau
Nestled within the beauty of France and set within the small village of Chenonceaux in the Indre-et-Loire département of the Loire Valley sits a stunning château that demands attention in the most theatrical way. Built between 1514 and 1576 in three stages following the designs by the French Renaissance architects Philibert de L’orme and Jean Bullant the Château de Chenonceau is one of the most striking château designs in France and adds a dramatic presence as it arches out across the River Cher.
Late Gothic and early Renaissance architectural design provide a bold, proud structure that stands strong across the water. Yet the crisp white and grey finish adds an air of delicacy that creates a tranquil presence as the château’s reflections shimmer on the water’s surface. Turrets, arches and bridges add a fairytale-like essence to the overall look of the château drawing you in to discover the history, wonder and magic within.
Set within charming and lavishly decorated rooms and halls with beautifully restored architectural design the interior details are brimming with immaculate furnishings, art and artefacts awaiting your discovery. As you meander the walls within this beautiful piece of architectural design escape to a window and capture the breathtaking views of the River Cher and surrounding landscapes, take a moment to absorb the beauty and uniqueness of this wonderful château and its location within the Loire Valley.
Once you have discovered the interior beauty of a château like no other allow time to escape into the dreamy and captivating atmosphere of the tranquil manicured gardens that surround. Immerse yourself in the peace that the grounds provide and reflect on all that your Loire Valley adventure has shown you.
The Loire Valley really does provide some of the most beautiful French countrysides and with so much on offer within this part of the country, you really will be in for one of the most relaxing holiday experiences. In summer the fields are as bright as gold as the sunflowers cast their glow far and wide adding happiness to the scenery like nowhere else in the world. Elegant châteaux such as Château de Chenonceau dot the villages and towns rich in medieval history provide mystery and excitement to discover. Tantalising wines await your approval in the stunning vineyards and restaurants, many produced locally, and what could be more tempting after a leisurely lunch than a meander around one of the local markets brimming with local produce, handmade textiles, baskets and art.
Travelling through the Loire Valley really does provide a beautiful way to relax, escape the busy every day and create lasting memories to share with loved ones for many years to come.