It was time to leave Paris. I was so excited to get out into the french countryside and see the châteaux that dot the region. Chambord is enormous - with 426 rooms and 282 fireplaces. The double helix staircase is thought to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. The inside is so cavernous it is difficult to picture anyone actually living there. The château of Chenonceaux, on the other hand, is relatively small and cozy. The fully furnished rooms send the imagination back in time - “Hmmm, I think I will take that room!” I loved the medieval kitchen and the beautifully manicured gardens.
The famous double helix staircase.
Nice “little” hunting lodge.
Kristen told us the story of Diana de Poitiers, who was gifted the castle by her lover, Henri II. Upon the king’s death, his widow, Catherine de Médicis, reclaimed the castle and kicked Diana out. The lovely gardens and interiors reflect the more feminine touch of these two ladies.
