Thursday July 11 - Chateaus

We visited three chateaus today.   First was Chenonceau, which is built over the river.  Gorgeous setting and the chateau was very impressive.  

The grounds were massive.  The kids complained about all the walking.  

Next was Chaumont, in the valley of the River Cher, a tributary of the Loire.  Incredibly beautiful chateau and gardens.  Paul and the kids took a rowboat out on the Cher river.  

We stopped at a maze, but the hedges were getting old and weathered.  They were replanting it. 

The last chateau was Azay-le-Rideau, also very beautiful.  It rises on an island in the river Indre and is surrounded by a romantic 19th century park. The château has some prestigious historical decorations telling about its 4 centuries of history. It also has some sumptuous collections of items, tapestries, and furniture.

We drove to Auger, arriving at Veronique’s parent house late.  They have nice home with a large yard and vegetable garden.  Very restful and peaceful there.