2. CASTLES OF THE LOIRE VALLEY INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION CHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERS AZAY-LE-RIDEAUCHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERSAZAY-LE-RIDEAU Azay-le-Rideau Angers Chenonceau Chambord Since we will be unable to personally go to France this year, I thought that you might enjoy a virtual sampling of a few of the castles we would have visited. Take your time as you visit this Virtual Field Trip to see the castles of the Loire Valley. Imagine that you are actually standing before each castle taking the photo yourself. I have included additional links if you desire to know more about each castle, however, the purpose of this trip is to simply experience the sights and views, in and around Chambord, Chenonceau, Angers, and Azay-Le-Rideau. Bon voyage!

3. CHAMBORD INTRODUCTIONCHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERSAZAY-LE-RIDEAU As you approach Chambord from a distance, it appears that an entire city is ahead of you. It is only as you move closer that you realize you are looking at the magnificent castle of Francois I. With over 400 rooms, covering 32,829 square yards, it is the largest castle in the Loire Valley. The double helix staircase is said to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci More information CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE.

4. CHENONCEAU INTRODUCTIONCHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERSAZAY-LE-RIDEAU Chenonceau, known as the “Castle of Ladies”, was the home for two famous women Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medicis. The symmetric gardens and the reflections of castle on the Cher river are breath taking. As you walk through the hall over the river you can imagine the frequent celebrations that had once taken place there. More information CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE

5. ANGERS INTRODUCTIONCHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERSAZAY-LE-RIDEAU The outside of Angers is strong and protective, but once you enter the front drawbridge, you are surrounded by calm. Climb the small staircase to the top of one of the tours for a view of the city. The Apocalypse Tapestries are located within the castle museum. More information CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE

6. AZAY-LE-RIDEAU INTRODUCTIONCHAMBORDCHENONCEAUANGERSAZAY-LE-RIDEAU Azay-Le-Rideau is consider the jewel of the Loire Valley. A picnic in the garden or by the water is a must. You might even catch a glimpse of the swans. Relaxing and serene is the best way to describe this castle. More information CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE

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31. CREDITS Photos by George d’Alba A special thanks to my husband, and family for watching my children as I worked on this project. Check out a few panoramic views at www.worldlandmarks.com/europe/france/loire_valley I hope you have enjoyed your trip! Au revoir.