SEE & DO
Touraine Wine Museum
— This one is for wine buffs. A small entrance fee is charged for a historical recount of wine in the Touraine. Items from guilds, cenology, wine-growing, a few ceramics and glassware. These displays take place in in the 13th century wine cellars of the St. Julien 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
Chateau Saumur
— I've not toured this grand Chateau as it still under major renovation, which I believe will be complete mid 2008. Dating back to the 10th century this grand castle would have to be one of the oldest in the Loire.
www.saumur-tourisme.net
Saumur
Chateau de Luynes
— This 12th Century chateau is straight out of a ‘Harry Potter’ novel. A former fortress, many a battle raged here. The 'Duc de Luynes', a favourite of Louis XIII made this chateau his residence in the 16th century. Kids will enjoy exploring the many towers and classical french gardens.
www.chateaux-france.com
Ave du Clos Mignot, 37230, Luynes t: 02 47 55 67 55
Chateau Montgeoffroy
— This one survived the revolution where as many other were ransacked. Now privately owned however you can view rooms certain times of the year.
www.37-online.net
The village of Blois
— A tiny version of Tours, Blois is quaint village with with an imposing and historically significant chateau. Step into the 'murder room' of one very famous Duc of Guise who was brutally slain. Wonderful Gothic architecture; the museum displays rich tapestries, sculptures and decorative arts.
Events: 15 Nov - 2 May 2009 'Paintings of the Age of Louis XIV'.
Summer months: May - July - Daily sword fighters and renaissance music (11am 3.30pm & 5pm, 2009 dates t.b.a.)
Night Spectacle - Nightly from April-Sept 9.30 then June July 10.30pm (Wednesday in English)
www.ville-blois.fr
The Chateau at Azay-Le-Rideau
— Best seen during their night spectacle (17 May - 8 September), the show highlights the architecture and nocturnal qualities of the area.
www.azay-le-rideau.monuments-nationaux.fr
Chateau de la Bourdaisiere
— Don't miss the Tomato Festival held September 13 and 14. I never thought tomatoes could be so interesting!
www.chateaulabourdaisiere.com
Montlouis-sur-Loire
Chateau de Amboise
— One of the more imposing chateaus of the Loire with telescopic views of the village beneath and its surrounds. Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb rests in the Chateau’s church. Deep with history from the days of Charles VIII and François 1er the chateau's grounds are not as pretty as Villandry or Chenonceau but enjoyable. In Summer there's a night spectacle, while in French is impressive and an insight into the castle's history. Combine this visit with Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo and home to many of his inventions (reproductions), scale models and an opportunity to interact with the larger scale models in the gardens.
www.chateau-amboise.com
Amboise, 471230, t: 47 57 00 98