Articles by Corina Clemence on ArticleSnatch.com

Heavenly Goat's Cheese Recipes From The Loire Valley

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Filo-wrapped crottin de Chavignol 1 crottin de chavignol 1 sheet filo pastry 20g butter melted 1 egg yolk 1 plum tomato vinaigrette ready prepared sea salt and pepper to taste 1 finely diced shallot 3 finely chopped basil leaves 1 Valencay goat's cheese. basil oil to decorate Preheat oven to 180C (gas mark 4). Fold the filo pastry into a square and lightly butter the face of it. Bring all of the corners into another square and lightly butter the whole face of the pastry. Turn 90 degrees so that a point is facing you. Place the crottin de Chavignol in the middle. Brush the edges with the egg yolk. Bring the side corners on to the top of the crottin and overlap the two points. Glaze with egg yolk and bring together to make a parcel. Brush the outside of the filo parcel with the melted butter. Place on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for around 8-10 minutes. Prepare the base by slicing the plum tomato thinly. Place on a tray and lay out flat. Season and drizzle with a little vinaigrette. To present, fan the tomato in the middle of a plate. **End Summary** Topics: Goats cheese recipes. Loire Valley]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> chateau holiday]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Come explore the spectacular Loire and its amazing food and wine - oh la la. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

French Easter Traditions - Paques

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

In France, Easter is called Paques and Shrove Tuesday is referred to as Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday. In France, church bells ring joyfully during the year. But the bells stop ringing on the Thursday before Good Friday. They are silent for a few days while people remember the death of Jesus. On Easter Sunday morning, the bells ring out, telling people that Jesus is alive again. When people hear the bells, they kiss and hug one another. Easter is celebrated in France much as it is in America, with cultural customs with rabbits, chocolates and eggs and various religious ceremonies commemorating the rebirth of Jesus. Roman-Catholic is the predominant religion in France is (90%). In France no city, village or town is without a church. A surprising number of the churches date back to the twelfth century or before. Most churches have a bell, which is rung joyfully throughout the year marking various events and the passage of time. In France all church bells are silenced on the Thursday before Good Friday, in acknowledgement of Christ's crucifixion. They are rung again on Easter Sunday in celebration of his resurrection. **End Summary** Topics: Easter France]]> French Easter]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> chateau rental]]> chateau holiday]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

The Priory of Sion in Dan Brown's "Da Vinci Code" - A Complete 20th Century Hoax

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

If you enjoyed reading the Da Vinci code and fancied tracking down the Priory of Sion, save yourself the effort. The Priory of Sion is nothing more than a 20th century hoax created by Pierre Plantard, an oddball in search of royal descent. These events, which Dan Brown presents as the truth, are simply untrue. 'The Da Vinci Code' has been hailed as a 'a faultless piece of research', a 'learned' book, and a 'history lesson'. Dan Brown a former English teacher and art historian, tried to pass off as truth the story of the Priory of Sion invented by Pierre Plantard a french anti-semitic fanasist. Dan Brown in his preface states: 'The secret society of the Priory of Sion was founded in 1099, after the First Crusade.' In 1975, parchments referred to as 'Dossiers Secrets' were discovered at the Bibliotheque Nationale, which mention the names of certain members of the Priory, including Sir Isaac Newton, Botticelli, Victor Hugo and Leonardo Da Vinci'. **End Summary** Topics: Priory of Sion]]> Dan Brown]]> Loire Valley]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Eva and Tony's Wedding - Not The Biggest Celebrity Event At Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The celebrity wedding of Eva Longoria, star of Desperate Housewives and Tony Parker, NBA basketball chamption was not the most auspicious fete in the history of Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte. The Chateau is an exception venue close to Paris and is a popular choice for celebrity weddings with exquisite furniture, unique period decor, open fires in magnificient fireplaces, and the unforgettable sight of the candlelit gardens. Resplendent today as it was in former times, Vaux-le-Vicomte stands as a symbol of the intelligence, taste and independence of its creator, Nicolas Fouquet. August 17, 1661 goes down in history as the most lavish, refined and dazzling celebration in the chateau's history be it rich in hidden drama. Overcome with joy at the chance of parading Vaux-le-Vicomte before the King whose faithful servant he remained, Nicolas Fouquet assumed that he would take over the post of prime minister vacated by Cardinal Mazarin. Boy was he wrong. On this beautiful summer's day. Nicolas Fouquet and his wife officially opened Vaux-le-Vicomte in the presence of the King, who had expressed a desire to see the recent improvements, together with the Queen Mother and part of the Court. **End Summary** Topics: rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> chateau rental]]> chateau holiday]]> wedding Eva Longoria]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France for a French wedding. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

The Origins of Friday the Thirteenth - Chinon, Loire Valley

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

On October 13 (the unlucky Friday the 13th), 1307, supposedly all the Knights Templar in France were simultaneously arrested by agents of Philip the Fair on the strength of so-called revelations of a few unworthy and degraded members. The Knights were arrested and then submitted to a most rigorous examination and horrendously tortured until they admitted heresy in the Order. Many Knights were held at Chateau Chinon tower where they left unusual carvings still undeciphered today. At least 2000 Knights were killed in an attempt to obliterate the order because Philip the Fair coveted the property and treasure of the order. He seized the treasury and broke up the monastic banking system and sought to control the Templars' wealth and power himself. Owing to the lack of evidence, the accused Templars could be convicted only through their own confession and, to extort this confession, the use of torture was considered necessary and legitimate. The investigation that followed was radically corrupt in its intent and procedure. The secrecy with which the initiation rites were conducted were scrutinised. The receptions of the Order always took place in a chapter with grave and delicate questions being discussed. **End Summary** Topics: Friday 13]]> Chinon]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> chateau rental]]> chateau holiday]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Chateau rental http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Eva Longoria Desperate Housewives Star Gets Her Fairtale French Wedding But No Honeymoon

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The star of "Desperate Housewives" star Eva Longoria wed Tony Parker her toyboy NBA champion beau in a religious ceremony on Paris on July 7. The celebrity couple exchanged vows in a civil ceremony in Paris on Friday, as required by french law even when a couple have a church wedding as well. The civil ceremony took place before a modest crowd of about 40 guests, including French soccer player Thierry Henry and some of Parker's team mates from the San Antonio Spurs. The ceremony was held at Paris' City Hall at the 4th District Town Hall with the mayor of Paris pronouncing them husband and wife. The civil ceremony was just a prelude to their expected star-studded weekend wedding and reception at a lavish and storied chateau. The more lavish wedding ceremony took place on 7th July 2007 at Eglise Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois, in a Paris cathedral dating to the 12th century. The church, which is located near the Louvre Museum, once served the French royal family. Paparazzi were circling and it was a game of cat and mouse. Media interest was frenzied and intense. **End Summary** Topics: rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> rent a chateau]]> rent a castle]]> french wedding]]> wedding in France]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Desperate Eva Gets Her French Wedding - OK! Snaps Up Exclusive Photo Deal

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Most brides just have to worry about who they are going to have take their wedding pictures, but Eva Longoria who plays Gabrielle in "Desperate Housewives" and fiance Tony Parker who plays basketball for the San Antonio Spurs also had to decide the important question of who would get the rights to publish their photos. The biggest bidders for the exclusive rights to wedding coverage were People magazine and OK!. OK! won the bid by offering $2 million dollars. Apparently it was entirely a matter of money, right up to the final negotiation. OK! editor-in-chief Sara Ivens said: "These were obviously highly coveted photos, and we were thrilled to negotiate the exclusive rights. Covering great moments with the celebrities that we love is what the magazine is all about." People magazine is said to be miffed about missing out on the much sought-after deal. Editors at People magazine broke the story of their wedding and were working hard with Eva Longoria's representatives to secure the picture rights and were upset about losing the deal. It is claimed that their coverage of the couple's reported break-up did not influence Eva's decision. Another source said: "Everyone knows OK! **End Summary** Topics: rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> french wedding]]> a wedding in France]]> married in France]]> Eva Longoria]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, ideal for a fairytale french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com French wedding

French Wedding for Eva and Tony - Paris Mayor Conducts Civil Cermeony

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The star of "Desperate Housewives" star Eva Longoria and her toyboy beau Tony Parker NBA champion exchanged vows in a civil ceremony in Paris on Friday, as required by french law even when a couple have a church wedding as well. The civil ceremony took place before a modest crowd of about 40 guests, including French soccer player Thierry Henry and some of Parker's teammates from the San Antonio Spurs. The ceremony was held at Paris' City Hall at the 4th District Town Hall with the mayor of Paris pronouncing them husband and wife. After arriving in a white stretch limo to the civil ceremony, a pretty-in-pink Eva, 32, in a way-above-the-knee Chanel dress with striped black and white straps was spotted waving to the crowd of over 1000 fans before heading into the municipal building. Eva arrived first and was accompanied by about eight guests in cream, pink and purple dresses. She turned, smiled and waved for the crowd of waiting photographers and reporters who were kept well back behind two rows of police barriers. Inside Eva changed in Bertinotti's office into a short white dress for the ceremony. **End Summary** Topics: rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> french wedding]]> wedding in France]]> married in France]]> a french wedding]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com French wedding

Chateau Villandry In The Stunning Loire Valley - A Must See Garden

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The gardens at Chateau Villandry are a sheer delight. They are lovingly and enthusiastically tended by Henri Carvallo, curator of the chateau and great-grandson of Dr Joachim Carvallo who purchased the chateau in 1906. When Dr Carvallo purchased the property it was on the point of being demolished. It had been disfigured by the walling up of the arches, fake windows and additions and the moat had been filled in. Dr Joachim Carvallo envisaged the harmonious renaissance architecture and the original design. He gave up an impressive career in science under the tutelage of a professor who later went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize and devoted himself to the restoration of Vchateau Villandry and its magnificent gardens. Later on Dr Carvallo founded the Association de la Demeure Historique with the objective of saving historic buildings throughout France. He sure saved Villandry which is now one of the most visited chateaux of the Loire Valley. Carvallo's best work was the restoration of the gardens, which still make the reputation of Villandry. **End Summary** Topics: Chateau]]> Chateau Villandry]]> Loire Valley]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> hire chateau]]> hire castle]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire a chateau. Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Joue De Vie - A Castle In The Loire Valley In France

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Certainly the main attractions of the Loire are romance, history and architecture. The renaissance chateaux built by Charles VIII, Francois I, Catherine de Medici and other royals during the hundred years that the French court relocated to the Loire Valley from Paris it a distinctive storybook charm. Like the river Loire, this vast region runs through the heart of French life. The lush Loire valley is supremely regal. Its sophisticated cities, luxuriant landscape and magnificent wine and food and wine add up to a bourgeois paradise. It is now classed as part of the world heritage of mankind by Unesco (from Chalonnes-sur-Loire to Sully-sur-Loire). Overindulgence is no sin in this rich region. Surly queens, foppish kings, evil princesses and scheming mistresses and aristocrats sculpted a flat riverbed valley into an enchanting fairytale landscape like no other place in Europe or the world, for that matter. Unlike the chateaux of the Loire Valley, the Loire Valley wines are a perennial secret. Some of France's best winemaking occurs here although few Americans are aware of it. Even many French are unaware of some of the wonders now being produced in the Loire Valley. **End Summary** Topics: rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> rent french castle]]> rent french chateu]]> hire chateau]]> hire castle]]> Loire]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Rent castle - rent chateau in the Loire Valley Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Which French Loire Valley Historic Castles Should You Visit on a Family Holiday

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Loire Valley in France is a spectacular destination for a family holiday. There are many historical castles to see, so many that it can be difficult to decide on which ones to see before it becomes too much for the children to bare. Each of the Loire Valley castles listed below have their own special attraction. We would highly recommend Chateau Close Luc and its gorgeous park and working models of over 40 of Leonardo Da Vinci's amazing creations. Chateau Chaumont is worth a visit in the summer months for the garden festival alone. Many of the gardens are highly interactive and highly sensory designed to capture the imaginations of adults and children. Chateau Chenonceau is architecturally breathtaking and a must see. There is a maize for children to get lost in for a little while. Chateau Cheverney has spectacular furniture and a working pack of dogs. Chateau Chambord is the largest of the Loire Valley castles and you can hire bicycles or pedal boats to make it more child attractive. Chateau Blois is interesting architecturally because it is like 4 castles rolled into one. **End Summary** Topics: french chateaux]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau france]]> rent castle france]]> hire chateau]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Go Ahead and Spoil Yourself - Rent a Castle in the Majestic Loire Valley in France

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

What child reading about fairytale castles in Europe doesn't dream of being a handsome prince or beautiful princess, being waited on hand and foot and living a life of complete romantic luxury. Now you are an adult, you can realise this childhood fantasy by renting a luxury Loire Valley chateau for your next vacation. Here you can totally relax and unwind and feel like royalty. The Loire Valley is one of France's best kept secrets, located some 200km south of Paris. The Loire River is over 1000 kilometres long and it is the longest last wild river of Europe. The Loire Valley is actually France's third most popular tourist destination after Paris and the French Riviera. But the Loire Valley is so vast, that families return year after year and never tire of its many attractions. It has something to offer every tourist. **End Summary** Topics: rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> hire chateau]]> hire castle]]> rent chaeau france]]> rent castle france]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Five Reasons To Holiday At A Castle In France

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

If you have never holidayed in a French castle before, here are some reasons why you should consider one for your next luxury holiday. Size By their nature, chateaux are large pieces of architecture. However the reception rooms on the ground floor are typically huge and wonderful rooms to relax in and soak up the ambience. French chateaux lend themselves perfectly for wedding venues. Sometimes a reception room may house a Michelin-starred restaurant. If it does not then usually there is one not too far away. The premium bedrooms or suites are normally located on the first floor and are usually palatial built for the original creators of these architectural gems. Do not be surprised if the ensuite is bigger than a whole floor of your own home. The upper floors which usually have a lower ceiling height were reserved for the incredible number of full-time staff required to keep a chateau running like clockwork even at the beginning of the last century. Chateaux normally lord over a domaine which historically necessitated wood-cutters, and ground staff on top of house staff. Remember these gems were built before the invention of lawn mowers and chain-saws. **End Summary** Topics: rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau France]]> rent castle France]]> hire chateu]]> hire castle]]> Blois]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Which Transformers and Adaptors to Bring On Your French Holiday - Some Time Saving Advice

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

When preparing your French holiday, do not forget to do a little research and pack the correct adaptors and or transformers for your small appliances. Otherwise you will get yourself into trouble and blow up your appliances. Firstly, we need to make sure you understand the terminology. Adaptors are simple devices which allow you to connect one plug into a different shaped plug. You can get adaptors for American to European, English to European, Australian to European and vice versa - basically any combination for different shaped plugs. You can even purchase expensive adaptors to plug in anywhere in the world. Adaptors are light in weight. These are not to be confused with transformers (also called converters) which modify the characteristics of the current which is input in your appliance. Transformers or converters are usually much heavier and bulkier than adaptors as they have a metal coil in them. Transformers are not adaptors. The tricky part is that some transformers can also be adaptors at the same time if the terminal is adapted for a different shaped foreign socket. Next before you jet off you need to consider plug differences. The electrodes (terminals) on an American plug are flat. **End Summary** Topics: adaptors France]]> transformers France]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau France]]> hire castle]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Loire Valley Castles - Six That You Must See

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Val de Loire is a majestic region awarded world heritage listing because of its amazing chateaux.The kings of France, seduced by the temperate climate and the game-filled forests constructed their these incredible Loire Valley castles. They surrounded themselves with the greatest architects and artiests of this era. This is the country of a thousand castles. Many chateaux and stately homes are open to the public: some are state owned, such as Chambord and Blois; others are private, and still lived in. A huge percentage of them run son-et-lumiere spectacles during the summer season. Chateau de Chenonceau and Chateau de Chambord are incredibly popular. Chateau du Clos Luce Chateau du Clos Luce is where Leonard de Vinci spent the last fewyears of his life. You can visit his salons, study, kitchen and bedrooms, the chapel and see frescoes painted by his pupils. His drawings and paintings are set out in the garden of the chateau with giant models sponsored by IBM of some of the most spectacular machines he invented together with voice-overs. **End Summary** Topics: loire castles]]> loire chateaux]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> rent french castle]]> rent french chateau]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people ideal for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is perfect for a french wedding, party or event. Hire the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Hire castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

France Woos Bikers To The Gorgeous Loire Valley

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The central part of the Loire Valley was named a UNESCO World Heritage in 2000 for its cultural landscape and historic towns and villages. France in 2005 suffering from a minor slump in American tourism, introduced the "Loire a Velo" biking program, designed to allow cyclists to explore the 880 kilometers of breathtaking cycling trails and roads that wind along Europe's last wild river past vineyards, mysterious troglodyte homes (limestone caves), picturesque french villages, ancient churches and monasteries. When the whole trail is eventually completed it will stretch approximately 500 miles from Saint-Brevin-les-Pins in the Atlantic region to Cuffy in the Cher region, near Sancerre. The countryside is a mix of vineyards, sunflower fields, leafy forests, green valleys and charming villages, and is ideal for undemanding cycling. The attractive market town of Amboise, under the reign of Francois 1st historically important during the 15th and 16th century and nestled under its fortified chateau, makes a perfect starting point. The routes move between the Loire and Cher rivers, and visit some of the prettiest chateaux along the way. The Loire is the longest river in France, rising in the Massif Central and flowing over 1000km to the Atlantic Ocean. **End Summary** Topics: cyclist holidays]]> france]]> loire valley]]> hire chateau]]> hire castle]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> Blois]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

France's Enchanting Loire Valley - Sir Mick Jagger's Secret Hideaway

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

When Mick Jagger thick-lipped lead singer of the Rolling Stones (affectionately also known as the Strolling Bones) finishes a tour, where does he head to unwind? He heads for the beautiful Touraine region in the centre of France in a sleepy little backwater where he can relax with his friends and family preferring the simple life. The little village is incredibly quaint with a population of about 1600 people. If you blink it is easy to miss Poce-sur-Cisse. There is the Marie as usual, a little white church, a newsagent, two hairdressers, hotel, baker, two pharmacies, and pizzeria. In the centre is an impressive 15th century chateau set out in a gorgeous park. This one is not Sir Mick's. A discreet sign indicates the way to La Fourchette. Poce-sur-Cisse is well placed being only 220 kilometres from Paris on A10. And just 25 kilometres from the village is the Tours airport, where a private, three-person taxi-plane whisks Jagger from London in 70 minutes. The area is also handy for the high speed TGV, which zooms into Tours or its satellite station, St-Pierre-des-Corps, in 62 minutes from Paris' Gare Montparnasse. **End Summary** Topics: Mick Jagger]]> Loire Valley]]> Blois]]> rent chateau France]]> rent castle France]]> hire castle]]> hire chateau]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent chateau France http://www.loirechateau.com Rent castle France

Glorious Gardens of the Delightful Loire Valley in France

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Loire Valley in France is a superb delight for garden enthusiasts. Not only can you admire the spectacular chateaux and sample fine French cuisine and great Loire valley wine, tourists can also marvel at some amazing gardens. The whole valley is now a world heritage site listed by UNESCO. Chateau Villandry is a gem and a must see for any one with a vegetable patch in need of some inspiration. Chateau Chaumont on the banks of the Loire River holds a spectacular international garden festival every summer. Peony and rose lovers should visit the botanical gardens at Orchaise west of Blois. Chateau Villandry owes its fame to the exceptional terraced gardens which sit on three levels and include a water garden, an ornamental garden and an ornamental kitchen garden. Eight gardeners work at Chateau Villandry full time, and plant about 60,000 vegetables and 45,000 plants in its gardens each year. Villandry is a dynamic place, the site of many activities such as the "Vegetable Garden Days" in September, the summer festival, special exhibits and workshops with the gardeners from the chateau. **End Summary** Topics: Loire gardens]]> Chateau Villandry]]> Chateau Chaumont]]> rent chateau]]> hire chateau]]> rent castle]]> Blois]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Consider Chartering a Private Airplane For Your Next Vacation in France

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Loire Valley became the favourite residence of kings who during the Renaissance period entertained in lavish style while enjoying the incredible beauty of the landscape. The castles still stand in all their glory representing the majesty and grandeur of the architecture of that period and the enchanting charm of France's fabulous past. Today, the Val de Loire and especially the 100 mile stretch from Orleans to Blois and Angers continues to lure visitors to explore the splendid French countryside with its historic chateaux and abbeys, and to enjoy some of the best food and wines in the world. You too can enjoy some of that lavish style by unwinding in a castle rented exclusively for a vacation with family and friends or for just a long weekend. The Loire Valley is well placed being only 2 hours south of Paris. If you need to fly seriously consider a private charter. "The saying "Getting there is half the fun" became obsolete with the advent of commercial airlines." - Henry J. **End Summary** Topics: plane charter]]> holiday france]]> Loire Valley]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> hire chateau]]> hire castle]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence operates a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for family holidays and for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing. It is ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

The Loire Valley - An Incredible Gastro-Cycling Paradise

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Envisage a land of mile after mile of nearly flat bike routes that gently sluice across a fertile river valley irrigating some of the world's finest acclaimed vineyards. Imagine enchanting renaissance castles, quaint villages, and sun-flower-filled hillsides. Then, combine all this with cuisine that would make even the most seasoned chef salivate. The few drivers you encounter are pleasant and courteous showing an admiration for the cyclist. Do you know where you are? This is not fantasyland - it is the beautiful Loire Valley. This magnificent majestic region is best experienced if you don't approach it as a Tour de France speed. Take your time. Remember you are on vacation and you are not trying to set any records. Leisurely drink in the scenery and the culture and sample some of the acclaimed local wine whilst enjoying a picnic beside the Loire always remembering you have to get back on that bike. The town of Blois, gateway to the Loire Valley, makes for an ideal point to start a cycling adventure through the "Garden of France." Spend one day cycling past vineyards and fields of sunflowers around the magnificent chateaux of Chambord and Cheverny just east of Blois. **End Summary** Topics: Loire Valley]]> Cyclists]]> Loire et Velo]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> rent chateau france]]> hire chateau]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Travelling with Your Family - Some Great Time Saving And Sanity Saving Tips

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Today, the Loire Valley in France lures tourists to explore the splendid French countryside with its historic chateaux and to enjoy some of the best food and wines in the world. You too can live like a king enjoying some of that lavish style by unwinding in a castle rented exclusively for a vacation with family and friends or for just a long weekend. Easter and Summer holidays are just around the corner. This is the time of year for family holidays. Going on holiday with children can be a bit daunting and test your patience. Here are some handy tips to help make your family vacation full of wonderful memories for you to cherish for a lifetime and an absolute pleasure. Protect Your Family's Health Very importantly take out Health Insurance and bring all of the paper work. Remember sunblock in summer and insect repellent. Pack all medicines that you and your family are on, all of them in their original containers. Take some child friendly low level pain killers like paracetemol, nurofen, or aspirin. Arrive Early at the Airport Today airport security takes forever and is a complete disaster. **End Summary** Topics: family holiday]]> chateau holiday]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> hire chateau]]> rent chateau France]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

The 10 Must See Chateaux To Tour In The Loire Valley In France

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The royalty of France, seduced by the temperate climate and the game-filled oak forests erected their sumptuous homes here in the Loire Valley. They surrounded themselves with the greatest architects and artiests of this era. This is the country of a thousand castles. The valley is full of not only royal castles and renaissance palaces, national museum and large magnificent chateaux, but also medieval castles and fortresses, small fairy tale manors, private chateaux, medieval cities, churches, abbeys, and cathedrals. Many chateaux and stately homes are open to the public: some are state owned, such as Chambord and Blois; others are private, and still lived in. A large percentage of them run son-et-lumiere shows during the tourist season. Chateau de Chenonceau and Chateau de Chambord are definitely worth a visit and are near to Blois. Chateau du Clos Luce Chateau du Clos Luce is where Leonard de Vinci spent the last fouryears of his life. You can visit his study, salons, kitchen and bedrooms, the chapel and see frescoes painted by his pupils. **End Summary** Topics: loire valley chateau]]> loire valley castles]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau]]> hire castle]]> hire chateau]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau

Magnificent Magician - Robert-Houdin

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

Robert-Houdin who was born in Blois is often credited as being "the father of modern magic". Before him, magicians performed in marketplaces and at fairs, but Robert-Houdin performed magic in theatres and private parties. He wore formal clothes, like those of his audiences. Many magicians today mimic this by wearing tail-coats, though some magicians consider this as old-fashioned and prefer contemporary clothes. The stage name of Harry Houdini was taken in tribute to him, though Houdini later denounced Robert-Houdin. He is widely considered the pioneer in the modern performance art of illusion. Robert-Houdin was a watchmaker, and he made mechanical toys and machines. From an early age he had been interested in sleight of hand and juggling, and in 1845 he began to exhibit his skill, soon becoming famous for his tricks. The Arabs of Algeria were said to be excited to rebel against French colonialists by false miracles performed by their religious leaders. In 1856, led by Napoleon 3rd the French government sent Robert-Houdin there, hoping that he might perform tricks that were far more impressive, thereby dissolving the excitement of the rebels. It is said that Robert-Houdin's tricks, succeeded in breaking up the influence of the priests. **End Summary** Topics: Robert Houdin]]> famous magician]]> Blois]]> rent chateau]]> rent castle]]> rent chateau France]]> hire castle]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Loire Valley Wines - Five Wine Appellations Sprinkled Among the Historic Chateaux

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

The Loire River in France winds through the Touraine area for almost one hundred kilometres dotted with many amazing French chateau open to the public and a wonderful location for a holiday. There are 5 AOC wines (Appelations d'origine Controlees - wines of controlled origin and quality) awarded throughout this area: Touraine, Touraine Amboise, Touraine Azay-le-Rideau, Touraine Mesland and the latest being Touraine Noble-Joue awarded its AOC status in 2001. The combination of vineyards and castle make the Touraine region of the Loire Valley an incredible destination for any wine lover and his or her family. The Touraine Amboise vineyards totalling 236 hectares are situated between Tours and Blois extending along both banks of the Loire. The reds are a wild cherry colour produced from a blend of Cabernet and Gamay Noir and have scents of red fruits. Their palate is solid and full. The whites produced from Chenin Blanc give dry, medium and sweet white wines. Their straw yellow colour turns gold after 3 to 4 years of cellaring. Their aroma is all quince and honey and they have a supple palate because of the more mild climate that favours late-ripening grape varieties. **End Summary** Topics: Loire Valley Wine]]> rent chateau]]> rent chateau France]]> rent castle]]> rent castle France]]> hire castle]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France

Live The Life of Johnny Depp in a Chateau in France

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 -0400

You might not spend $16,000 for a bottle of 1978 Romanee Conti in a London restaurant and hang around with Rolling stones bad boys Keith Richards and Ron Wood, but you can spend a week or two living like Johnny Depp in a French Chateau. He spends 6 months a year when not filming living happily in a village in France with his wife Vanessa Paradis former Chanel girl and their 2 children, Jack and Lily-Rose. Depp fell in love with France while shooting the Ninth Gate here in 1998. Today, locals regularly spot him picnicking with his family, shopping for veggies at the village market and riding around the countryside on his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. "Each morning, I can go to the little village not far from my chateau, have a cup of coffee, sit there with my girl and not worry about the paparazzi," he told reporters in 2001. "I love America. I love going back, seeing my family and friends - but it's wonderful to get back to France and be living in a tiny village with nothing around. There is still the possibility to live a simple life. **End Summary** Topics: Johnny Depp]]> rent chateau]]> rent caslte]]> rent chateau France]]> rent castle France]]> hire castle]]> blois]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Corina Clemence runs a luxury french chateau in the Loire Valley near Blois, for up to fifteen people perfect for touring vineyards and chateaux and relaxing french holidays. It is also ideal for a french wedding, party or event. Rent the whole castle or rent a suite. Rent a castle in France. Hire castle - hire chateau Rent castle http://www.loirechateau.com Rent chateau France