Best Loire Chateaux  When it comes to chateaux the Loire valley gives the Dordogne a good run for its money!  However whereas the Dordogne chateaux are generally situated on craggy cliff tops, many of the most impressive Loire chateaux are majestically set in river valleys, in forest clearings or, in the case of Chenonceau, straddling the river!  Unlike the Dordogne chateaux, the Loire chateaux were built with luxury and pleasure as their raison d'être!

Angers Castle                     Children are free!

Location: In the centre of Angers.
General Info: 2 Promenade du Bout du Monde, 49100 Angers.  Tel No: 0(2) 41 86 48 77. Open every day except 1st Jan, 1st May, 1st and 11th November and 25th December.
Description: On a rocky hill right next to the narrow old, cobblestoned streets and alleys of the old town of Angers stands the 13th century imposing chateau of Angers – very much an impregnable fortress rather than a stately home. The only way in for example is over a drawbridge. It is most well-known for the Apocalypse Tapestries, woven during the latter half of the 14th century which are housed inside the chateau, but there are other reasons to visit as well. The tapestries are fascinating for those interested in medieval history, while the ramparts are great fun for children with seventeen towers on three sides of the castle (now minus their pepper-pot roofs) and winding staircases to explore. The views from the ramparts are spectacular There are formal gardens in the centre of the chateau.

        - Angers Castle
        - Château de Brézé
        - Château de Chambord
        - Château de Chenonceau
        - Château de Villandry

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