French Paradise
In the early 16th century, many kings and artists returned from their visits to Italy. With blissful expressions, they exclaimed, “We have seen paradise there.” They wanted the same in France, and so it happened. Along the Loire River, hundreds of little castles emerged, each grander and more beautiful than the last. Take the romantic Chenonceau, for example. Built directly over the slow-flowing waters of the Cher River, this chateau deserves a true fanfare—especially for its fabulous setting of gardens and parks.
Six Tours
This holiday, the castles are strung together like jewels on an elegant necklace. From Pontlevoy, you’ll visit places like Chéverny, Amboise, Troussay, Gué-Péan, Blois, Chémery, and... Chenonceau, which you might want to save as the final stop, as it's definitely the cherry on the cake. Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of King Henry II, once lived here after he gifted it to her in 1547. This legendary woman, “la toujours belle” (the eternally beautiful), enjoyed an idyllic life here. Then again, who wouldn’t, with such an incredibly beautiful setting?
