Learn French in Style
Why not make the most of your time in Loire Valley with a French Language course. The Touraine is known to be where French is best spoken so there are numerous schools. One of the best however is CLE (Centre Linguistique pour Etrangers) ideally located in ‘centre ville’.
There are levels and courses to suit any timetable. Summer courses last between two and twelve weeks or you can choose an “à la carte” course for a minimum of one week or an intensive 3-month stay.
Class groups are small and personal and include a cross-section of ages. In addition to your studies, there are lots of activities around the region exploring the chateaus and of course learning more about the famous cuisine of the Touraine. The school can also assist with accommodation anywhere from a two week stay to several months with a host family. Its the relaxed and friendly environment combined with a serious approach to learning that makes this school a little different. Visit their site for more details. To check your level, try their online quiz!
My royal week
The castles of the Loire are the star attraction, so we've listed some of more celebrated ones but not in any particular order. In Summer most offer festivals, night spectacles and celebrations ranging from the 'Tomatoe Festival' at Chateau Bourdaisiere to costumed actors strolling the grounds at Langeais and Valencay. Others, like Azay-le-Rideau stage spectacular 'night light' shows illuminating the castle. Direct links to their website will explain what's going on and when in more detail.SEE & DO
Chateaux de Cande
— This is the chateau where the Duke of Windsor, former Edward VIII, married Wallis Simpson, after his abdicating. Inside, its a museum to the wedding with her gown and cake and all the trimmings for the 16 guests that attended. Each year there's a wonderful 1930's picnic in the grounds and if you're in the region its the best time to visit.
Open from April to end September Friday, Saturday and Monday 10am to 6pm
www.chateau-cande.fr
Monts 37260 t: 02 47 340370
Chateau Montpoupon - Hunter's delight
— What a lovely surprise to find this 15th century Chateau. Not heavily publicised, but well worth the visit, especially for those who love the history of ‘la belle chasse’.
The exterior museums record beautifully all aspects of 'the hunt', (there’s even a vintage collection of Hermes scarves as well as a display of numerous riding outfits worn throughout the centuries). The interior of the Chateau is limited to a few rooms and a church, however, visitors will enjoy exploring the once very active stables, learning about saddlery and all the necessary preparations for the hunting season. There's also some fine examples of taxidermy; stories about the life of hound dogs and their masters and wonderful black and white photographs that capture a time lost in the Loire. Book a lunch at the adjoining Auberge serving quality tourangelle cuisine.
www.montpoupon.com
Chateau de Villandry
— Spend the afternoon strolling the vast 16th century gardens of Villandry. A number of wonderful events are held during the year, including ‘Night of a Thousands Fires” (July 6 and 7) when over 2,000 candles are lit around the grounds followed by fireworks. Famous for its vegetable gardens and exotic plants. Spring is the best time to see all in its full decorative bloom. Visit their web site (also in English)
www.chateauvillandry.com
Villandry
Chateau Montrésor
— Situated in the Village de Montrésor
Visits accompanied all the year for groups on reservation. Information with the Office of Tourism of Montrésor :
Tel : 00 +33 (0)2 47 92 70 71
April-Nov 10am -12 then 2pm – 6pm
Nov-April – Group bookings only
37460 Montrésor t: 02 47 92 60 04
Touraine Wine Museum
— This one is for wine buffs. A small entrance fee for a historical recount of wine in the Touraine. Items from guilds, cenology, wine-growing and making activities on display in the 13th c. wine cellars of St. Julien's Church.
Open all year from 9.00 -12.00 a.m then 2.00 - 6.00 p.m Closed Tuesday and 1st Jan, 1st May, 14 July, 1st Nov, 11 Nov, 25 Dec.
www.ligeris.com
16, rue Nationale, Tours t: 02.47.61.07.93
Incredible craftsman at work
— The co-operative Vannerie de Villaines employs over 100 wicker makers who weave quality baskets and other wicker products. You can visit their studio Mon-Sat 9-12 then 2-7pm. Unless you are after a wicker basket its a little out of the way. But you will find quality and understand a traditional employment for this area.
About 5 km from the town of Azay-le-Rideau
www.vannerie.com
1 rue de la Cheneillere 37190 Villaines-Les-Rochers
The Cathedral
— The cathedral is best seen at night. Once inside you can only marvel at the 12th and 13th century stained glass and admire the collection of ancient musical instruments. There are many restaurants in the nearby rue Colbert.
www.paroisse-cathedrale-tours.cef.fr
Place F. Sicârd, Tours
La Scénoférie de Semblançay
— This is a wonderful French spectacle recounting the history of France throughout the ages, dating back to the Gaul then roman times, middle ages, religious conflict, Louis XIV right through to the revolution.
Brilliantly performed, even though the cast of over 400 are mainly locals in this rather big production. You won't be disappointed in the lighting effects, authentic costumes, fireworks and special effects. There are several scenes with wonderful horsemanship. The only downside is that the show starts when the sun sets, which can be as late as 10.45pm, so difficult for small children, however my six-year old loved it and stayed awake until it finished at 12.15 and, it is of course, holiday time! Shows in July / August 2008
2008 dates: 28 Juin, July 5, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
August, 1, 2, 8, 9 15, 16
Adults 16 euors Children 6
Email: contact@scenofeerie.com for more details. Site is in French or t: 02 47 56 66 77. If you need assistance booking you can email ally@myweekin.net and we will organise your tickets at the door. You will need a car to visit this area of the Touraine.
www.scenofeerie.com
Semblancay