Non UK Loire Valley

[justa1972]

Hello

Driving to the Loire in July and thought I'd just ask if anyone could make some recommendations ? There are so many Chateau's that its difficult to know where to start !

We are stopping over at Le Mans and then staying in a village near Chinon south of Tours.

Also anything else worth visiting that isn't a Chateau ?

Thanks in advance

 

[troutfisher]

Vinyards!

Look for signs that say Degustation-it means wine tasting

Get hold of some cremant de loire-its made by the champagne method and its great and don't ignore the red wines they are very good

 

[dcash29]

Chenonceau & Villandry to name two

 

[MatBin]

Chenoceau is a must.
Matt

 

[Canon Bob]

There's a festival at Richelieu (about 20kms south of Chinon) on 16-17 July. This year's theme is "Cape and Epée" and it'll have around 300 people in 1600's costumes performing in the streets. Dancers, musicians, duelers and alike. I live about 90 minutes south of there and hope to give it whirl this year.

Bob

 

[SFTPhotography]

I recommend Chateau De Cheverney, Chenonceau, Chombord, Blois, Amboise.

 

[Kodiak Qc]

Chombord

It's Chambord, Steve!

Also anything else worth visiting that isn't a Chateau ?

The whole valley is an historical site so no new developments.

Though many châteaux are in private hands, many others may be
visited inside, limited access, but still, plenty to see and photograph.

 

[fuzzyfelt30]

Definitely Chambord and hopefully it will have dried out by next month!!

 

[SFTPhotography]

Definitely Chambord and hopefully it will have dried out by next month!! View attachment 66692

I know thats awful but I just see so much reflection potential there.

I visited about 2 months ago and the scafolding meant I never removed the camera from the bag, but its a great castle.

 

[fuzzyfelt30]

I know thats awful but I just see so much reflection potential there......

Only a hardcore tog could say that with a straight face.... ....but I know what you mean!! At least the chateau itself was pretty much unscathed:

http://www.france24.com/en/20160608-video-france-famed-chateau-de-chambord-heavily-damaged-floods

 

[SFTPhotography]

Only a hardcore tog could say that with a straight face.... ....but I know what you mean!! At least the chateau itself was pretty much unscathed:

http://www.france24.com/en/20160608-video-france-famed-chateau-de-chambord-heavily-damaged-floods

I am a nutter for reflections. Chenonceau is ok if the river moves slowly and winds are low

https://www.talkphotography.co.uk/threads/chateau-de-chenonceau-loir-valley.627779/

There are better out there than mine but it gives you an idea.

 

[MattyW]

Another vote for Chambord.

TourAuto13-18 by Matty, on Flickr

 

[Gary Clark]

Lancia Stratos ??

 

[KernowChris]

Drive along the levees that take you thru many picturesque villages beside the river, very scenic.