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Chinon travel guide

Visit Chinon (Centre-Loire Valley, France)

Chinon is a town located between Angers and Tours , on the Vienne river and in the Loire Valley. Although best known for its castle the town also has an interesting historical centre to visit while you are here.

Explore Chinon

France This Way review: the river scenery, an interesting historic town centre and an imposing castle combine to make Chinon one of our favourite small towns of the Loire valley region and we recommend that you visit during your stay in the region, or stay here and use Chinon as a base for exploring...

Start your visit on the bridge across the river, for nice views of the town and castle: the best panoramic view of Chinon is from Quai Danton on the other side of the bridge, although the trees rather obstruct the view of the houses unless you visit in winter!

Near the end of the bridge on the Chinon side of the Vienne river you can see a statue of Rabelais: Rabelais is a famous French author believed to have been born in Chinon at the end of the 15th century, best knwon for his work 'Gargantua and Pantagruel'.

This is also a good place to enter the town: from here the Rue de l'Hotel de Ville takes you straight into the Place du Général de Gaulle, the centre of the more recent part of Chinon. This part of the town, along with the Rue du Commerce and the Rue Rabelais that leave from the sides of the square, is where you will find most of the shops and cafes in Chinon, and is partly pedestrianised.

The main part of Chinon old town is to the west of here, below the walls of the castle which can often be glimpsed above the houses. Leave Place du Général de Gaulle from the top left (north-west) corner and enter Rue Voltaire: this street, and Rue Saint Maurice as it becomes further west, is the loveliest street in Chinon.

Here in the heart of the old town there are numerous medieval houses, some in colombage but most in stone and often with interesting architectural features such as small towers or ornate window surrounds.

Churches in Chinon

You will see several churches as you explore: the 12th century Church of Saint-Maurice is in the heart of the old town centre and the other main churches are further east, on the other side of the Place du Général de Gaulle:

- the most important religious monument in Chinon is the remaining part of the 12th century Collegiale Saint-Mexme . Although only the facade with its two towers and a part of the church now remain (the other parts having fallen into neglect and being destroyed after the revolution), that is sufficient to get an idea of how imposing the original complex would have been. Inside the church there are some very early frescoes, and various exhibitions are held here during the summer.

- at the 15th century gothic style Church of Saint-Etienne you will notice the unusual, almost Italianate, clocktower.

You can also visit the ancient troglodyte chapel of Saint-Radegonde in Chinon, half the building being built into the cliff and containing some medieval frescoes, although the chapel has limited opening hours and is outside the centre, so we recommend you ask in the Chinon tourist office before visiting.

Chinon Castle

After exploring the old town you will want to visit Chateau de Chinon. You can follow the cobbled street up the hill to the entrance or use the lift, depending on your energy and enthusiasm!

The castle is not the most beautiful in the Loire Valley region, but retains most of its medieval fortress character (most castles in the region were transformed in the renaissance style) and has various towers and buildings to explore, as well as some exhibits and recreations of medieval weapons, and has exceptional views across Chinon town and the river.

See separate feature for information about Chateau Chinon .

Museums in Chinon

The Clock Tower (at the castle entrance) now houses the Joan of Arc Museum . This Museum brings together many articles from the Hundred Years War period linking Joan of Arc to the town, and also many paintings and sculptures of the young Saint Joan.

The Museum of Old Chinon in the old town is a good place to learn more about the history of the town.

Attractions nearby

In the countryside around Chinon there is a great deal to discover. Among are personal favourites are Fontevraud Abbey , the Azay-le-Rideau Chateau and the picturesque village of Candes-Saint-Martin , classified as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France'.

You can find more travel ideas in the Indre-et-Loire guide and the Loire Valley guide .

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Chateau de Chinon

Château de Chinon retains more medieval elements than most Loire Valley castles

Chateau d'Ussé

The imposing Chateau d'Usse, next to the Loire, is an imposing medieval-renaissance castle surrounded by gardens and park

Chateau du Rivau

One of the more modest castles in the region, both the Chateau de Rivau and its associated gardens are very pleasant to explore

Candes-Saint-Martin

In the village of Candes-Saint-Martin, a 'most beautiful village in France', you can see the Vienne river, a medieval collegiale church and a lovely viewpoint

Candes-Saint-Martin collegiate church

The collegiate church of Candes-Saint-Martin has numerous medieval statues incorporated in the facade and porch

Tavant is a small village but a visit to se the murals in the church is recommended when you are nearby

... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Indre-et-Loire

Tourist classifications for Chinon

Chinon has received the following tourist classifications: historical protected town centre' (secteur sauvegardé); listed town of Art and History

Address: Chinon, Loire Valley, 37500, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 47.19, longitude 0.24

Plan your visit to Chinon, Indre-et-Loire

Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby.

• Collegiale Church (Candes-Saint-Martin) : religious monument (13 km)
• Candes-Saint-Martin : most beautiful village (13 km)
• Les jardins du château du Rivau : remarkable garden (14 km)
• Montsoreau : most beautiful village (14 km)
• Fontevraud Abbey : national monument (14 km)
• Abbaye Notre Dame de Fontevraud (Fontevraud Abbey) : religious monument (14 km)
• Loire-Anjou-Touraine : regional natural parc (15 km)
• Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau : national monument (19 km)
• Les jardins de la Chatonnière: remarkable garden (19 km)
• Crissay-sur-Manse : most beautiful village (19 km)
• Richelieu : secteur sauvegarde (21 km)
• Aquarium de Loudun: aquarium (23 km)

Market days in Chinon, France

Regular market(s) are held in Chinon each Thursday all day & Sunday. (Markets are held in the morning unless stated.)

The French version of this page is at Chinon (Francais)

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Chinon is one of the most picturesque and romantic towns in the Loire Valley, thanks to its ancient streets that slope gently down to the banks of the Vienne River.

The large château dominates the town, providing magnificent views from the bridge, while around the town, expanses of vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, creating an area rich in charm and beauty.

Things to do in Chinon

The charming old town centre enchants visitors with its many medieval half-timbered houses and tells the story of Chinon over the centuries.

Indeed, the town reached its peak in the Middle Ages, during the reign of Henry II the Plantagenet , King of England, who settled there regularly. Another period of great splendour came under French royal rule, in 1205, during the Hundred Years’ War, when Charles VII chose Chinon as one of his official residences.

Chinon Castle

Perched on a large, flat rocky promontory overlooking the town, the royal fortress characterises the panorama of Chinon with its dark roofs contrasting with the whiteness of its buildings. The castle was the scene of important events in French history, including the historic meeting between Charles VII and Joan of Arc .

For a time, it became the prison of some members of the Templar Order before they were judged and burnt at the stake in Paris.

The old town

From the royal fortress overlooking the city, you can reach the heart of the city by following the ramps and cobbled alleys, or by taking a comfortable, modern glass lift.

In the town centre, picturesque and colourful half-timbered houses from the medieval period line the streets, making the heart of Chinon incredibly charming. Winding alleys, tufa houses, terraces full of bars and restaurants, the Thursday market in Place Jeanne d’Arc and magnificent views of the Vienne River await you.

The city tour starts at Place du Général de Gaulle 2 , the most modern part of Chinon, where the town hall is located. It continues to Rue du Commerce 3 and Rue Rabelais 4 , the shopping streets with the highest concentration of bars, restaurants and shops.

Strolling through the streets of the old town, admire the former courthouse at 73 Rue Haute Saint-Maurice 5 , continue on to Rue Voltaire 6 , one of the most picturesque streets, and then to Rue du Grand Carroi 7 , the street with the oldest houses in the centre.

Don’t miss the city’s churches. The Gothic church of Saint-Maurice 8 is characterised by its 12th-century bell tower, Angevin Gothic choir and side chapels showing the transition between Gothic and Renaissance styles. In the flamboyant Gothic style, the church of Saint-Étienne de Chinon 9 is located in an old 14th century fortified suburb.

On the other hand, Chapel of Sainte-Radegonde de Chinon 10 is a small hermitage immersed in silence, which will take you back in time thanks to its old-world charm.

The Painted Caves

The Painted Caves are a vast network of tunnels dug under the hill to extract tuff and then converted into cellars to store the region’s finest wines . Their appearance has remained virtually intact over time: the story goes that François Rabelais’ father had his personal cellar here to store the famous ‘Breton’ wine.

Even today, the rituals of the Confraternity of Imbottatori are still celebrated: the galleries can be visited with wine-tasting.

The riverside

For the best panoramic view of the town of Chinon and its fortress, we recommend you go to the left bank of the Vienne at Quai Danton 12 . On the riverside, you will find the best view to photograph the town.

In addition, a number of traditional boats depart from the quays on the river in the summer months to offer river excursions : an exceptional journey into the heart of nature and history, to admire the region from an unprecedented viewpoint.

Things to do in the surroundings

A delightful village a few kilometres from Chinon is Champigny-sur-Veude , nestled on a tributary of the Seine where you can admire the magnificent shapes and stained-glass windows of the Sainte-Chapelle, built at the behest of Louis de Bourbon.

A little further south, Richelieu is a suburb built at the behest of the cardinal of the same name according to the urbanistic dictates of an ideal city: a citadel with a rectangular plan, surrounded by ramparts and moats, designed to repel possible attacks. Don’t miss a visit to the cardinal’s palace and the covered market.

In the following map you can see the location of the main places of interest mentioned in this article

Where to stay in Chinon

The town of Chinon is a pleasant stop during a trip to the Loire Valley . It is normally visited n day, starting from Tours or Angers . However, many tourists decide to stay overnight in Chinon, to enjoy the pleasant evening atmosphere of the town.

Mostly flats and B&Bs can be found in the city centre, while large hotel chains are located on the edge of the old town.

Recommended hotels and B&Bs in Chinon

How to get to chinon.

Chinon is located between Tours , which is about 46 km away, and Angers , which is 88 km away.

For those landing in Paris, at Paris Orly Airport or Paris-Charles de Gaulle A irport , it takes about 2½ hours by car, following the A10 motorway and then the A85.

Those arriving from Tours, on the other hand, must allow about 40 minutes on the A85 motorway with exit No. 9 Chinon and then the D751.

If you want to reach Chinon by train from Paris , the fastest way is to take a TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Tours, and then change to a regional route to Chinon.

Chinon Weather

What's the weather at Chinon? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Chinon for the next few days.

Where is located Chinon

In the heart of the ancient Turenna region, Chinon is washed by the river Vienne and is located in the department of Indre and Loire.

Location around

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Tourism, holidays & weekends guide in the Indre-et-Loire

Between Tours and Saumur , let's explore Chinon in Indre-et-Loire . A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town enjoys an ideal location at the heart of the Loire Valley . The character of this ancient medieval town is alive and well in its old town and its castle. Strolling through the narrow streets of Chinon is like taking a trip back in time with its pretty half-timbered houses and old dwellings. Among them are the Red House (Maison Rouge), one of the oldest in the city, the former Bailiwick's Palace and the Hôtel des Etats Généraux, a mansion now housing the Museum of Old Chinon. Then take the little sloping path to the castle, a genuine royal fortress that still has its vast defensive walls.

As well as offering a lovely view of the town and the surrounding area, the castle is worth a closer look to learn about its history. For example, it was there that Charles VII met Joan of Arc in 1429 before she liberated Orleans. Chinon also has beautiful religious buildings such as the Chapel of St. Radegund. Built in a Romanesque, semi-troglodyte style, its mural paintings from the end of the 12th century depict the Plantagenets. To find out more about local art history, Le Carroi Arts and History Museum invites you to discover a rich collection, the centrepiece of which is the Cope of St. Mexme, a cloth woven from silk and gold in the 12th century.

And how could we talk about Chinon without mentioning its vineyards? Spanning 2,300 hectares, their varieties of red grape, like the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon, and their rosé grapes delight the palates of amateur oenologists. Several cellars in the area are open to the public if you would like to sample the region's finest wines.

Additional information Chinon

City of Indre-et-Loire , on the banks of the Vienne, Chinon takes place at a strategic location between Touraine , Anjou and Poitou. It is located in the heart of the Regional Natural Park Loire-Anjou-Touraine, thirty kilometers from Saumur and fifty kilometers from Tours.

Former favorite stronghold of the Plantagenet, Chinon went through history from the Gallo-Roman era, becoming the place of many great events that have marked the country. In the thirteenth century, the city leaves the lap of England, joining the kingdom of France. It is here, in 1429, that Joan of Arc meets Charles VII for the first time, thus lending him allegiance. High place of Protestantism during the wars of religion, the city then passes from hands to hands, to take the face we know today.

Always appreciated for its wines, which benefit from an AOC, the region also attracts many tourists every year because of its exceptional architectural and historical heritage, as well as for its many popular cultural events.

Things to see and do

Located on the rocky outcrop overlooking Vienna and the city, the royal fortress of Chinon used to control the passage over the river. Listed as a Historical Monument, it was originally built in the 10th century, and has had several additions until the 15th century. Under the Plantagenets, she knows her finest hours of glory, before passing into the hands of France. In the seventeenth century, it gradually lost interest, soon falling into ruins. Sold as a national good under the Revolution, it is soon inhabited by private individuals who build their houses there. Set up as a public promenade in the first half of the 19th century, the park gradually develops, revealing a circuit allowing to appreciate the ruins still present. The fortress is today the subject of one of the largest restoration projects in Europe. Visitors can enjoy with pleasure the royal residence, as well as the remains of the old dungeon which offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

Just at the foot of the royal fortress, you can discover the city-fort, the oldest center of Chinon. There are still beautiful half-timbered houses, mansions of the fifteenth, sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, or the House of the States General, or the palace of the Bailiwick. Do not miss to admire the Painctes Caves, a vast network of galleries dug under the hill to extract the tufa. The Saint-Maurice church has a 12th century bell-tower base, as well as a nave and an Angevin Gothic choir. At the beginning of the sixteenth century, the addition of several side chapels presents a transition between flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance.

Entirely rebuilt in the 15th century, the Saint-Etienne church takes place in the district of the same name, known for being an old fortified suburb of the fourteenth century. Inside, windows reveal four episodes of the religious life of the city and its surroundings such as the death of St. Martin, the recognition of Charles VII to Joan of Arc, or the miracle of Saint Mexme.

Listed as a Historical Monument, the collegiate church of Saint-Mexme was once the main religious building of Chinon. Its oldest parts date back to the beginning of the eleventh century, but the building was enlarged in the course of the twelfth century. Disused during the French Revolution, the collegiate gradually falls into ruins, and is partly demolished. School until the early 1980s, it now houses a cultural center including a small wooden theater used in summer.

Formerly a place of pagan worship installed around a well dug in the rock, the Sainte-Radegonde chapel dates from the Middle Ages. It was built around the burial place of the hermit Jean de Chinon. Inside we can appreciate several murals, including that representing members of the Plantagenet family in the twelfth century.

Several museums take place in the city like that of wine and cooperage, that of popular Arts and Traditions, or that of Carroi. Housed in the House of the States General, the latter unveils collections of works of art retracing the history of the town and its surroundings, such as this portrait of Rabelais by Delacroix, faience of Langeais , or the screed of Saint -Mexme, a Hispano-Moorish fabric of the twelfth century.

Walking through the city, you can discover several statues representing the great figures of Chinon following the example of Rabelais, Joan of Arc, or the Sacred Heart which reminds by his pose Christ of Corcovado.

Equestrian sports fans will be able to head to the racecourse of Grigny to have a good time.

Places of interest

Events and festivities.

The market is held every Thursday morning. At the beginning of August, a medieval market and an old market offer several animations. A Christmas market takes place in December. A flea market is also held every third Sunday of the month on the banks of the Vienne.

In April, it's time for the spring fair with its flea market and carnival. It is also an opportunity to participate in the contest of the most beautiful beard.

In May, Chinon in Fanfares proposes a guinguette on the banks of Vienna, as well as parades of fanfares.

A popular tourist rally, Chinon Classic takes place in June.

A fireworks and a popular dance are organized on July 14 on the occasion of the national holiday.

Nocturne Gourmande is a craft and gastronomic market taking place in September.

• From 8 july to 30 august 2024
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• Military strategies, the art of siege, the evolution of weapons : dive into the heart of the conflicts that opposed French and English armies in the Middle Ages and relive some great battles !

Visits, leisure and activities nearby

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Chinon is a city in the departement of Indre-et-Loire on the Loire Valley .

Understand [ edit ]

It was in Chinon’s remarkable medieval fortress that Joan of Arc recognised a disguised Charles VII as the future king of France. Leaving its walls, the quaysides of the River Vienne lead to the medieval alleyways of Old Chinon, where visitors will be enchanted by the spirit of Rabelais and the renowned local wine.

Get in [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ].

See [ edit ]

• 47.167403 0.243702 2 Église Saint-Étienne ( Church of St Stephen ). ( updated Jan 2018 )
• Old Chinon . ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 47.167281 0.237622 3 Musée du Vieux, Chinon ( Folk Museum ). ( updated Jan 2018 )
• 47.167266 0.239275 4 Musée animé du Vin et de la Tonnellerie ( Wine and Cooperage Museum ). ( updated Jan 2018 )

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ], eat [ edit ], drink [ edit ].

Chinon wines are very tasty and quite well-liked in France. Take advantage of the opportunity to drink some while you're visiting, as you may find some of these wines at a hefty markup when you get home.

Sleep [ edit ]

• 47.112758 0.277523 1 La Milaudière , 5 Rue Saint-Martin , ☏ +33 2 47 98 37 53 . The bed and breakfast La Milaudière near Chinon, a typical farm of 15th-18th century, has seven rooms and offers free Wi-Fi. ( updated Jan 2018 )

Connect [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

All the following cities are no more than 1 hour 20 minutes' drive from Chinon:

One of the best things to do is drive along the Loire and visit other châteaux and charming small towns along the way.

Also, many wineries can be visited in this prime wine-growing region.

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The Royal Fortress of Chinon

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Loire Valley Cultural Heritage Nature and Outdoor Activities

Reading time: 0 min Published on 7 June 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

The Royal Fortress of Chinon, welcome to the fortress of the third millennium!

Overlooking the River Vienne, the Royal Fortress of Chinon was built by the Count of Blois, Thibaut I, and serves as a reminder of the period when the history of France and that of England were intimately linked. In 1429, in the grand lodge room, the historic meeting took place between Joan of Arc and the future king Charles VII .

Indeed, it was in Chinon in 1427, during the Hundred Years War, that the court of King Charles VII was first established. In March 1429, it was here that Joan of Arc came to see the future monarch in order to assure him of his legitimacy and to convince him to be crowned in Reims.

After six years’ work, on a scale unprecedented in Europe, to restore the site to its former military splendour, welcome to the fortress of the third millennium ! Climb the numerous towers that rise up from the 150-metre long restored ramparts. Follow the circuit through the royal lodges to immerse yourself in the military and civil history of the fortress, and get an insight into the lives of the great characters who have marked this site.

Admire the lodges restored in the 15th-century style. Interactive and entertaining, the modern museography and scenography bring this historic place to life and offer a remarkable view of Rabelais’ hometown and the Vienne Valley.

Forteresse royale de Chinon 37 500 Chinon +33 (02) 47 93 13 45 [email protected]

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Best things to do in Chinon, France

Located in the historic region of Touraine in Loire Valley, Chinon offers a variety of activities such as visiting famous Loire Valley châteaux , taking leisurely strolls along its picturesque riverside paths, and experiencing some of the area’s finest Chinon wine tours and tastings . A must-stop city while discovering the region.

Table of Contents

Best things to do & see in Chinon France

When visiting Chinon, take the opportunity to wander down its narrow and winding streets between half-timbered homes and tufa mansions that tell of its past. The majestic fortress soaring atop a hill overlooks the lower town below while providing access to Sainte-Radegonde chapel, offering breathtaking vistas of slate rooftops from every angle. Don’t miss out on seeing the Grand Carroi or exploring where banns meet as well!

The fortress of Chinon

Without question, you must make the journey to the royal fortress that towers over Chinon and overlooks the scenic Vienne River. You will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of vineyards beneath as well as an up-close glimpse at this vibrant town’s history!

Visit the cellars under the forteress

As you enter the M Plouzeau cellars , located under the Chinon fortress, you will immediately be captivated by the unique atmosphere that reigns in these places steeped in history. You will have the opportunity to discover the different stages of wine production, from the harvest to the winemaking process, including aging in oak barrels. The owner of the place, Mr. Plouzeau himself, will share his passion and knowledge of wine with you, thus introducing you to the subtleties of tasting. Finally, the highlight of the visit will undoubtedly be the tasting of the estate’s wines. You will be able to appreciate the richness of the aromas and the finesse of the flavors specific to each vintage, while enjoying the warm and friendly welcome from the team. Book quickly!

Chinon historical city-center

Stroll the cobbled streets of Chinon’s old town, where you’ll find half-timbered houses, artisan shops and charming cafes.

Museum of Art & History

Come explore the rich and fascinating history of Chinon at Le Carroi museum. Established in 1905, this historic site invites curious visitors to join them as they journey through time from the Middle Ages to present day. If you have an interest in learning more about France’s unique past or appreciating timeless works of art, then a visit to Le Carroi is highly recommended!

Share a unique moment with winegrowers

Embark on a journey of discovery at Domaine de Noiré , and explore their winery and cellars to learn all about organic farming rules and biodynamic methods. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe!

Take part in a wine escape game

6 minutes driving distance from the center of Chinon, discover the Pierre et Bertrand Couly wine estate to try an unusual and oenological escape game! At Winalist we tested it and had a good laugh! So if you pass through Chinon, don’t miss this opportunity:

Picnic in a wine chateau

Drive towards the beautiful Château de Minière to enjoy a delectable picnic featuring a dish of local, organic and homemade cuisine accompanied by a side salad and dessert. And to top it off: two glasses of Minière wine! Book now.

What to do around Chinon?

Drive on the loire valley route.

The Loire Valley Wine Route is a journey through one of the most beautiful French wine region ! Wine lovers will also be able to discover food and wine pairings by tasting local dishes accompanied by Chinon wines during gourmet meals. Get to discover the best Loire Valley wineries thanks to our interactive map.

Discover the Loire Valley Chateaux

Travel through the history and beauty of France through the castles of the Loire. Nestled along the Loire Valley, these majestic castles will offer you a unique insight into royal and aristocratic life of the past. From fortified castles to sumptuous Renaissance castles, each construction tells a different story, from political intrigues to great love stories. The beautifully manicured gardens and vast parks surrounding these castles further add to their charm and grandeur.

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Visit Chinon and Azay-le-Rideau, lands of sharing

Home › Discover › Tours and the finest cities in Touraine › Visit Chinon and Azay-le-Rideau, lands of sharing

The Château d’Azay-le-Rideau , a Renaissance jewel, gazes at its reflection in its mirror of water, proud of its new lease of life, its monumental staircase, its beautifully restored bedrooms, its fragrant braided bulrushes which purify the atmosphere and its stately grounds.

Chinon, a small town of great renown, surrounded by precious vineyards, offers visitors its narrow cobbled streets with half-timbered houses and its lively little squares, under the protective eye of its monumental fortress , and its prestigious visitors Joan of Arc and Richard the Lionheart.

Generous and welcoming, foodies are thrilled by this encapsulation of Touraine, from the Cardinal’s city of  Richelieu  to the pretty Loire harbour at Bréhémont, from  Sleeping Beauty’s Castle  at Rigny-Ussé to the fairytale gardens of Le Rivau , the landscapes of Balzac and the banks of the River Indre, and from the  Montbazon keep  to the terroirs of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine.

Azay-le-Rideau and Chinon, two symbols of their time

Chinon and Azay le Rideau are two emblems of their time, the first dominated by its impressive medieval fortress and the second a typical image of the Renaissance which gazes at its reflection in its mirror of water… both must-see attractions in the Loire Valley.

The best way to visit Chinon   is   on foot : from its  fortress  which towers over the town you can reach the town centre either by taking the venerable flights of paved steps or the much more contemporary glass lift. Many houses full of character, churches and a collegiate churche line the streets where the pedestrians rule  and can make their way to the banks of the River Vienne, the beach and  the guinguette  for a delightful spot of lazing around. As for shopping, head to the Plouzeau , Couly Dutheil wine estates or the Monplaisir winery .

Azay-le-Rideau  retains the aura of its iconic Renaissance château, elegantly built on the banks of the Indre like its little brother the Château de l’Islette , a picture of rural beauty, the backdrop to Rodin and Camille Claudel’s tumultuous love affair.

Visit Chinon and Azay-le-Rideau: an art of living

Everywhere in these wine-growing lands of the Loire Valley you sense a warmth, a desire to share the abundance of local products on the restaurant terraces, in the cellars and the markets, such as a glass of Chinon and its faithful sainte-maure-de-touraine goat cheese , the fouaces and fouées that Rabelais loved so much, Richelais truffles , rillettes made from fish from the Loire, and the tarte vigneronne . These earthly delights like the harmonious, feminine landscapes were a great inspiration to two natives of the region – the colourful  Rabelais  and his Gargantua and  Balzac  the workaholic bon vivant in his stylish “The Lily of the Valley”.

Chinon Wine

Rabelais Museum - Seuilly

Take your time

Basketweaver

Take your time and savour every single moment when you explore unique places such as the troglodyte valley of Les Goupillières , the lively atmosphere of the trades of the Middle Ages at the Montbazon Fortress  or the chic inter-war style of the  Domaine de Candé .

Take a bike ride and discover the beautiful villages of Crissay-sur-Manse   or   Candes-Saint-Martin , the watermills on the banks of the River Indre, the beaches alongside the River Vienne, the expertise of the  Villaines les Rochers basketweavers , and the pretty churches in Tavant and L’Île-Bouchard, finishing at the towers of the Château d’Ussé  for a delightful morning. Finally, at Le Rivau , you’ll be captivated by the poetic gardens, their delicate array of colours and the humorous pieces of contemporary art.

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The Good Life France

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Chinon in the Loire Valley

• Guest writer
• Centre - Val de Loire

Chinon in the Loire Valley is rich in both culture and history. La vielle ville (the old town) is nestled between the Château on top of the hill and the river Vienne and for many generations, it was the home of kings and the seat of Government. Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine lived and kept the Royal Treasury in Chinon. Richard the Lionhearted spent time there and Joan of Arc went to Chinon to meet with Charles VII.

The royal fortress sits majestically watching over its domaine, located high on the banks of the river Loire, right in the centre of the city. A former residence for the Royal families of both France and England, you can sense the historic significance of the site from wherever you are in this beautiful city. Chinon is filled with charming streets lined with medieval houses, many of which date back to the 1400’s, making the town an excellent place to wander in wonder.

Don’t miss in Chinon

Château De Chinon : The city’s most famous monument is the magnificent Château which was built in 945 by Theolbald I, Comte De Blois. It has remained largely unchanged over the centuries since its restoration by Emperor Napoleon III. A highlight for the visitor is the clock tower, over 115 feet high! Website: www.forteressechinon.fr

Château Du Rivau : One of the most spectacular and enchanting Châteaux in the region, Château Du Rivau is easily accessible from Chinon.  Particularly lovely are the fairy-tale gardens. Website: www.loire-castle-rivau.com

Museum of Art and History – The museum in Chinon is notable for claims that it housed the supposed remains of Joan of Arc which were later exposed to be the remains of an Egyptian Mummy. There is an impressive collection of artwork and visitors can explore the history of the region and it’s most famous heroine, Joan of Arc.

Couly Dutheil Vineyard tour – A visit to one of the great wine estates in the region is a must.  Domaine Couly Dutheil has beautiful vineyards and excellent wines for tasting.

The charming centre of Chinon . Rue Voltaire is cobbled and lined with houses, shops and restaurants in beautiful old buildings, many of which date back to the fifteenth century and the reign of Francis I. In fact there are nearly 20 streets of medieval wood frame houses in the pedestrianised part of the old town. You’ll also see the step where Joan of Arc mounted her horse to go and meet the Dauphin, later to be Charles VII.

Chapelle Sainte-Radegonde – half built into the rock-face outside the town. An underground natural spring at the back of the chapel was a site of pagan worship which became Christian in the 6th century. There are two naves created in the 12th century, one carved directly out of the rock, and there are outstanding and colourful paintings, including the “Royal Hunt”, depicting five riders, two with crowns, another one holding a falcon on his wrist. It is said that the painting depicts members of the Plantagenet family who often stayed at Chinon in the second half of the Century.

One of the best ways to visit the castles, vineyards, pretty little villages, historic towns and gorgeous gardens of the Loire Valley is on two wheels… Loire Brakes guided tours are relaxing (e-bikes provided), you’ll stay in a fabulously renovated comfortable and cosy farmhouse and visit the very best of the Loire Valley with local guides Denise and Kevin. A superb slow travel experience for those who like to discover real France and enjoy the most fabulous food and wine.  loirebrakes.com

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