Days 7 & 8--The Loire Valley

Day 7-April 14th

We left on our excursion to the Loire Valley later than anticipated Thursday morning but we all tried to roll with the punches as we made our way toward our first stop--Blois. We arrived with enough time to enjoy touring the chateau before eating a picnic lunch in the courtyard. What was most impressive about this chateau was the how different styles of architecture were incorporated into the building. This was best seen by comparing the four walls surrounding the inner courtyard. It was a beautiful building and with some very cool staircases--definitely worth the stop.

Mom & Dad were kind enough to sit outside with Bridger at a cafe where they watched gold dragons creep out of the adjacent building while puffing their smoke. Just another day in Blois!

{Blois}

Then we were off to Cheverny! This exquisite chateau, I was fascinated to learn, has only been closed a few hours for 3 days since it opened for touring. (One of those times was for the current owner's wedding!) As we toured the house, I kept thinking about the fact that the owners still lived there--on the 3rd floor. It took me awhile to get over the feeling that I was somehow intruding.

Scott was most excited about seeing the dogs fed--a big, stinky, daily ritual at Cheverny. We went over and watched but were less than impressed with the trainers who didn't hesitate to whip the dogs. What can I say, once was enough for the doggie feast.

We enjoyed the grounds for a while longer and then drove to our next stop, Chenonceaux, where we checked into our hotel, ate dinner at the hotel's restaurant and then slept for the night.

{Cheverny}

{Bridger while we were watching the dogs--he's showing off his cute little teeth}

The next morning we woke up, ate breakfast at the hotel's restaurant once again and then drove over to the parking lot of Chenonceaux. We first toured the chateau and then ate lunch and walked the grounds. The interior was beautiful but what I will remember most is the stunning floral arrangements placed throughout the entire household. If I remember correctly, these live floral arrangements are put together by a floral staff that is employed full-time at Chenonceaux. Each unique arrangement is switched out something like 3 times a week! I also wasn't aware of the key role that this building played in the World Wars--including it being used as a hospital. I am amazed that the building has been preserved as well as it has.

{Chenonceaux}

{This is one of my favorite pictures ever--Dad, the photographer, taking pictures of Mom--Mom, tolerating the paparazzi--Me, the other photographer, documenting the entire scene while Scott looks on and says, "You guys are out of control."}

{Scott, Mom & Bridger walking back to the car}

We finished at Chenonceaux and off to Amboise we went! Mom & Dad had never toured this chateau before and so we were excited to have this new experience with them. This chateau was uniquely positioned on the top of a hill and the city could be seen below from all sides of the property. We thought the ramp for the horses and chariots was an interesting and unique feature of this chateau. Also, thanks to Rick Steves' we learned that someone important (do you like that?) died here after running into a door jam on his way to a tennis match. Pretty funny, eh?

Leonardo DaVinci also spent time here, hence the reason he is said to be buried in the small chapel on the grounds.

Before leaving Amboise we stopped at a recommended chocolate shop to purchase some delicious chocolates. Bigot had pralines that were simply to die for.

{Amboise}

{DaVinci's gravesite}

We thoroughly enjoyed our 2 full days in the Loire Valley. Going into our trip, Scott & I both wanted to get a taste of not only busy Paris, but life in the French countryside. It was fun to experience both kinds of French living--at least for a couple of days! Thanks again to Mom & Dad who drove us all over France! :)

Next up--Days 9, 10 & ll-The End