We will have 3 full days (with car) in Chinon-4 nights. We arrive from Bayeux leaving time for dinner our first night, but only sight seeing on the way there-anyone have must see/do on that drive? We will go through Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei as we understand it is an unusual town.
When we leave on day 4 driving to Orleans, we plan on 2 stops only one of which will be Chenonceau. (Car is due for return in Orleans by 5pm.) The other is open for suggestion.
1) What are your must see Chateau in the valley and why?
2) What are ‘try to do’ in the area of Chinon that piqued your interest? Not necessarily on the lists of travel sites must dos!
3) Car gives us freedom to move, so anywhere recommended to see that is out of the main stream of sights but not short changing Chinon and environs.
4) Any exceptional places (restaurants, Chateau, towns) for wine tasting? Driving means we can’t imbibe too much, but will try to take in at least one.
5) Lunch/dinner recommendations throughout the area? Not too high end though! We are good with €120-130 dinner prices for two, including wine-no, not every night! Lunch more casual and less €.
Any other advice while being in the Loire Valley is gladly accepted.