http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/ Welcome to Been there. Your tips on the places you know - that you love, live in or have just visited - are what make this guide. http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/20132 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/20132 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19617
There are buses to take you to the chateaus from Tours Gare and cost around 49 euros per person for a full-day tour- you'll visit Chenonceau, Amboise then Chambord which is quite a lot in one day.

While I would recommend a full day for each of these attractions, if you haven't the time it's a great day for the whole family and no need to drive or hire a car. Lunch is usually at Amboise which has lovely cafes, nothing really really gastronomic but good for lunch.

You can probably organise tickets for the chateaux pick-up via SNCF (gare) or www.tourevasion.com for more Loire Valley activities]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19617 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19252
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.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19252 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19246
I found two great bargains at Cacharel that made the metro ride worthwhile. A cropped wollen jacket, rabbit-fur trimmed lapel €660 reduced to €120 and a frilly high-neck silk blouse reduced from €320 to €90.

There's also a great selection of clothes for children of all ages: girls’ embroidered cardigans at a ridiculous €30, boys' suits from €100 as well as lots of cashmere twin sets around €80-120. The ground floor is dedicated to monsieur.

Also impressive are the two Sonia Rykiel stores which had some wonderful knitted suits at very reasonable prices. As France’s 'queen of knits' you can be assured of quality and pick up tops in bright colours for under €100; her two stores had last season’s stock greatly reduced. You won’t believe the incredibly cute young girls and baby SR range. You’ll also find bags and shoes in those bright trademark colours. If you like these two brands, then ‘bon route’.

A few other stores promised Armani and Dolce & Gabbanna but disappointed. Others had a great selection of French brand names, Gerard Darel, Naf Naf but at the same price as the 5th! I did find some American Retro ‘timeless’ T-shirts for around €30. It is fun bargain hunting and, if I had more time, I would have done more shopping.

Shops are generally open Monday after 2pm then Tuesday to Saturday 10 am – 7pm. I found most opened during the lunch hour (however the smaller ones may close).]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19246 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18963
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.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18963 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18958 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18958 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18865 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/18865