Today we were on a mission. We plotted the most direct route to Chambord, probably the largest and most famous chateau in the Loire and all of France. Not as large as Versailles nor as expansive but it is still a majestic building. It is situated in a forest park about five miles from the nearest town.
This is our third visit to the chateau. Our first was in 1967 while on our honeymoon. Paris was one of our stops including London, Amsterdam, and Madrid. We were on a five dollar a day tour (yes, it is not a typo - the trip was advertised as five dollars per day). In Paris we decided to take a one day (very long day) bus tour which ended at Chambord for a light and sound show - in French. It was still magnificent even though we did not understand a word.
Our second visit was on our 2016 self guided, solo bike trip to France, starting in the Loire Valley. We biked to the chateau but did not take the inside tour and just cycled around it. Today was our third visit which was a ride to the grounds but from a different direction and included a coffee stop. At eight euros this was the most expensive two double espressos on the trip. Viva La Tourist.
 |
| Since we made a beeline that covered the shortest distance there was no deviations along narrow paths. We did pass through several towns including the home of this church - very uncharacteristic for an Englise but no town would find themselves without one. It is hard to imagine the percentage of town wealth that went into church construction over the centuries. |
 |
| We entered into the surrounding forest and knew we were soon to be rewarded. |
 |
| There it is in the distance. Quite impressive even this far away |
 |
| Frontal view down the main entrance path. |
 |
| Just to prove we were actually there someone took our photo. Could be the cover picture for the 2023 Holiday Card. |
 |
| On our last visit this section was concealed by scaffolding but now that the restoration is finished it makes for a better picture. |
 |
| Yet another view as we circumnavigated the building. |
 |
| Sculpture of stag outside the coffee cafe. Interesting construction using wood fragments to build up the torso. |
 |
| We passed this photographer shooting a bride. Hard to see from this angle. Great wedding venue but think it was only a photo op for a soon to be bride or promo for bridal gown |
 |
| Short rest on our way home. At 38 miles plus this was one of our longest rides, but very flat and minimal climbing. Kim's favorite. |
