A Loire weekend Loire with stop at B&B le Moutier

We introduced friend Nora to the beauty of France's Valley of the Kings ... the Loire Valley. We visited Chenonceau and Amboise chateaux in Touraine and Chambord in Sologne. I love Amboise, and true is it has a lot to offer! The Chateau d'Amboise is magnificent, and the view of the town from the terrace is delightful. There is on of my favorite pastry shops and Tea Salon, Bigot where we had, of course, a tea with a pastry. The main street is now pedestrian, and there is a bunch of nice little shops and cafes. We had diner at l'Epicerie, and I will write a post about our diner; but before heading there, we had a glass Vouvray as aperitif.The chateau, started in the 12 C, was built on the Loire to control all exchanges. The building we visit goes back to the 15 and 16 C, it shows the French gothic flamboyant style and Italian renaissance style, first seen in French architecture here.

Leonardo de Vinci spent his last years here, and is buried in the Chapel of the Chateau. The Manor where he lived, le Clos Luce displays his life style and his last experiments. Besides, the park is a heaven of peace.Another favorite chateau is Chenonceau, Diane de Poitier's chateau, also known as Cheateau des Dames, built over the Cher river, with elegant arches and a very human dimension. I recommend you click on the link if you want to visit the chateau!

We stayed at Le Moutier , a delightful Bed & Breakfast near Saint Aignan, half way beteween Cour Cheverny Chateau and Chenonceau, on the Cher river. The owner has three horses and tours can be arranged. In Sologne, where Le Moutier is, we did some shopping Saturday morning at the Saint Aignan open market. Asparagus is one of the area specialities, and we bought 3 pounds! We also bought salads, beetroot, carrots, and more.