Such a lovely surprise to find this 15th century Chateau, not heavily publicised, but well worth the visit, especially for those who love the history of ‘la belle chasse’.

The exterior museums record beautifully all aspects of 'the hunt', (there’s even a vintage collection of Hermes scarves as well as a display of numerous riding outfits worn throughout the centuries). The interior of the Chateau is limited to a few rooms and a church, however, visitors will enjoy exploring the once very active stables, learning about saddlery and all the necessary preparations for the hunting season. There's also some fine examples of taxidermy; stories about the life of hound dogs and their masters and wonderful black and white photographs that capture a time lost in the Loire. Book a lunch at the adjoining Auberge serving quality tourangelle cuisine.

www.montpoupon.com or www.myweekin.net

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If you're travelling in the Loire Valley, plan to visit the chateaux at night as many have light spectacles. At Blois on Wednesdays, it's in English. On July 4/5 over 2,000 candles are lit in the grounds of Villandry and Azay-le-Rideau has a wonderful show most evenings.

They don't start till late (sunset 9.30pm) so, if you have kids, eat somewhere late then visit, most of the nearby villages have bistros. Chenonceau has musicians roaming and night lights. Other events can be found below.

For other events in the area see: www.myweekin.net

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An enchantingly atmospheric chateau, unspoilt by renovations, gave us a fabulously relaxing stay in the Dordogne coupled with a well organised range of activities from kayaking to guided walks and hang gliding to horse riding. Lots of supervised activities for the kids and gentler ones for us! Would definitely go again.

www.chateau-adventure.com
Phone +33 (0) 5 55 28 01 92

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A 16th-century chateau set in beautiful grounds with a wonderful restaurant.

In the summer you eat on the terrace beneath linden trees.

Elegant without being pompous.

Set behind the shopping/commercial estate of les Milles just outside Aix off the Marseilles road. You go through the grand gates and into another century.

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