Trying to take it easy and see only a few major Loire Valley castles (one every other day). So far the definates are #1 Chateau de Chenonceau (ahh, perhaps a taboo subject, but does anyone have a current (we're there in sept 2012) one year pass (Carte Privilège) we could have and then send back to you when we're back to the states? We're staying 0.5 km away and plan to visit it almost every day!) #2 Chaumont-sur-Loire #3 Azay-Le-Rideau
Posted by
Paris
9601 posts
It depends on your interests. I wouldn't have Chaumont onmy list as a must-see if it were my first time going (although it's a nice little chateau, and especially interesting if you are interested in the story of Diane de Poitiers). I always take visitors to Villandry for the spectacular gardens. I've never gone in the chateau itself. I think most folks would say Chambord is a must-see.
Posted by
OP
indianapolis
228 posts
So to define our Must-Visits, Castle + interiors + gardens + general feeling all should be hitting high marks. (i.e. Versailles hit high on the gardens, medium on the castle, low on the interiors (heck, all we saw were the backs of everyone else's heads) and medium on the general feeling, so that we'll most likely not go back again... was a one time visit for us.
Posted by
Ojai, CA
591 posts
Would also recommend Chambord and Villandry. Chenonceau is okay, but one visit is enough.
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, USA
320 posts
Jean-Paul: To your list I would add Cheverny. It is a beautiful estate and chateau. With the places you listed Cheverny is easy to reach. Time your visit so that you are there for the late afternoon feeding of the hunting dogs - it is really something to see! Have fun.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
10207 posts
Villandry gardens and Chambord, in agreement with Kim and Tim. Don't forget the restaurant I told you about in Villandry--Gossier Sec--in the cave. No pass, sorry.
Posted by
Divide, Colorado, USA
83 posts
We did the three C's----Chennonceau, Chambord and Cheverny. Each had it's unique features.
Posted by
Divide, Colorado, USA
83 posts
We did the three C's----Chennonceau, Chambord and Cheverny. Each had it's unique features.
Posted by
San Clemente, Ca.
408 posts
Chambord is one of my favorites.
Posted by
Los Angeles, California
1986 posts
Chenanceau and Chambord are at the top of most lists. I also like Azay Le rideau (they have a great son-et-lumiere). Add Langeais, its like an old mediaeval castle with huge, thick walls. 4 Very different and fascinating choices. I could go back to these over and over again
Posted by
OP
indianapolis
228 posts
All of ya'lls are great! We're going to visit each one mentioned here! Thanks for the advice!
Posted by
Portland, Maine
2916 posts
I pretty much agree with everyone here, although my order of favorites might be different. I think Chenonceau is the most spectacular, possibly because of its river setting. For pure "spectacularity," though, Chambord is hard to beat. And in all our trips to the Loire I had never heard of Montpoupon, but reading this blog earlier this year makes me want to check it out next time: http://ckenb.blogspot.com/2012/07/more-montpoupon-photos.html