We decided we should stay in some other accommodation other than our tent so looked at a few hotels in Chinon. With a 2 star hotel being 50€ we thought it might be better value to stay in a B&B so Cat started looking thought the gites of France site and found a 15th century chateau close to Chinon. David said lock it in Eddie ( reference to Australian game show who wants to be a millionaire)
We headed off in the light misty rain to Chateau de Usse. Not to bad to cycle in but hard to take pictures.
Chateâu de Ussé is famed with having been the inspiration for sleeping beauty and one of its towers is set up with mannequins depicting scenes from the story.
The rest of the castle was decorated from the 15th to 17th century. The current owner the Duke de Blacas opened the castle to the public in the 70's so he could restore the castle. Restoration/preservation is still underway.
As we headed for Chinon we were caught in a thunderstorm and took refuge in a bus shelter but were completely soaked. When the rain eased we headed to the Fortreess of Chinon. Thank god for Lycra as we dried off quickly.
Going through the fort we were taken on a historical journey learning about early French and English kings, the knights Templar and the crusades.
At around 5:30 we headed off for the Chateâu d Isore. We were welcomed by Peter one of the owners. He gave us a bit of history about the 15th century Chateâu and what they have done to renovate it. They started 3 years ago and have completed 2 of the 3 storeys. Absolutely amazing they have a photo book of before and after shots and we are so happy to be here. Much better than a hotel. (Also because our gear got wet and we are able to dry off the tent in the 15th century tithe (tax) barn.
We are now looking forward to some sunny days ahead.
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