I don't think I'm exaggerating when I say that Chenonceau is one of the "must see" castles in the Loire Valley. According to Wikipedia, it's the most visited private château in France, with about 850,000 visitors each year. In the height of summer, it can feel like they're all there on the same day. I've certainly been to the château a few times, the first being in 1982, but it's been a while since my last visit.
The Château de Chenonceau on the Cher River. March 2006.
This photo is from the end of winter in 2006. The place felt almost deserted.
Our cold weather has come back. It's just above freezing this morning, and it's expected to get colder through the week. But there's no precipitation in the forecast.
I'm sure that's a rare view without anyone in sight. It looks amazing.
ReplyDeleteMy first visit there was in the winter of 2005. It was one of the coldest places I've ever been indoors - I thought the life was being sucked out of me through my feet.
ReplyDeleteI was at this chateau when I was in high school. I hope to return someday as it is breathtaking.
ReplyDeleteWe arrived 30 minutes before closing and they wouldn't let us in - very disappointing - but I'll get there early the next time!
ReplyDeleteI visited it in 2003 with my daughter's French class. It was a wonderful experience!
ReplyDeleteLinda from Alabama
I think I have seen this one! Is there a winery connected to it?
ReplyDeletemitch, it's fun to go to popular places at unpopular times.
ReplyDeletemike, wow. Those old stone buildings can be quite cold in the winter months, that's for sure. Were any of the fireplaces lit?
michael, that it is!
mary, you would have had to rush through. No fun, that. Look forward to next time!
linda, what fun!
michael, there is an appellation Touraine Chenonceaux since 2011. I'm not sure about a specific winery being associated with the castle. And wow! Three "Mikes" in one day!