Storybook castle

This is the Château de Chaumont on the Loire River. I've posted many photos of this one over the years. It's not far from where we live, about a half-hour's drive, and until recently, the park around the castle was open and free to the public. Several years ago, as part of a renovation of the castle grounds, access to the park was restricted to those who pay to enter.

Chaumont castle (and its drawbridge) seen from the castle's park, March 2006.

In addition to the park and the castle itself, visitors have access to the stables and other out-buildings that have been renovated as spaces for art and photography exhibits, specialized gardens (herbs and vegetables, for example), and a tropical plant greenhouse. There's also a café on the grounds for a quick drink or longer lunch. The big attraction at Chaumont every year is the international garden-as-art festival from spring through fall. It's worth a visit if you're in the area.