We'll be doing the Canal du Midi trip in Sept., and enroute back to Paris we want to stop in the Loire Valley. Any suggestions on the best castles or Chateaux that we should not miss?
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
The best castle itinerary depends on where you base yourself, as the region is quite large. I'm most familiar with the central area around Amboise, Blois and Tours. Some of the more popular chateaux in this area include Chenonceaux (that's the one that spans a river), Chambord (the one with all the chimneys), Chaumont (would fit in well in a Disney park), and Cheverney (supposedly the most opulently decorated).
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Rick gives good descriptions of the Loire chateaus in his book on France, including his suggestions of the best. Two that are favorites with some travelers are Chambord and Chenonceaux.
Posted by
Daytona Beach, FL
220 posts
Villandry is great, too.
Posted by
Monein, Pyrenees, France
425 posts