France's Amazing Regal Loire Valley

France's Amazing Regal Loire Valley

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Renowned for its sumptuous chateaux, the relics of royal days gone by, the gorgeous Loire Valley is rich in both architecture and history. Like the river Loire, this huge area runs through the heart of French life. Its spectacular cities, luxuriant landscape and magnificent food and wine add up to a bourgeois heaven. The lush Loire valley is supremely regal.

In the 13th century, Orleans was the intellectual capital of France. It attracted poets, artists, and troubadours to its royal court.

Also ripe for discovery are the troglodyte caves, sleepy hamlets, and small Romanesque churches decorated with frescoes. Inviting inns offer game, fish and plentiful fresh vegetables to be savoured with light white Vouvray wine, or full-bodied Bourgueil. Overindulgence is no sin in this abundant area.

The Azay le Rideau Castle one of the purest creations of the Renaissance, was built on an island of the River Indre River perfect setting for an architectural treasure

The Blois Castle, capital of the kingdom for a short time (1498-1595), was stirred by the last starts of the Valois dynasty. It is like visiting 4 different chateaux rolled into one - so different are the architectural styles at play in the 4 wings.

The Chambord chataeu, pinnacle of the Renaissance, combined the dream of King Francois the First with the imagination of Leonardo da Vinci, who lived at Clos Luce also open to the public, in Amboise for the last four years of his life. The result is a real "mathematisation" of architecture, a grandiose creation: a fabulous double helix staircase,440 rooms,a chimney for every day of the year and unique roof terrace. Over its history Chateau Chambord has only been used as a residence for twenty years.

The Chenonceau Castle, the "Chateau des dames", is incredibly breathtaking and spans across the river Cher. King Henri II gave it to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, but his wife Catherine de Medici demanded it back upon the untimely death of Henri II after a jousting accident - who can blame her it is such a treasure. Diane was offered Chateau Chaumont on the banks of the Loire River opposite Onzain in exchange. But she never set foot there, instead retreating to Chateau Anet, where she died in 1566, 7 years after Henri died.

About the Author:
Corina Clemence operates an exclusive luxury chateau near Blois, for up to 15 people perfect for touring vineyards, chateaux and relaxing. Rent Loire Valley castle. http://www.loirechateau.com Rent a castle in France.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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