The Loire Valley is famous for its châteaus.  Following are some of our favorite pictures.  

 The bridge in Chinon.  

 Château Azay-le-Rideau. This was the only good view as the rest was under renovation. You can see the covering in the background.  

    
   Château Villandry is best known for its beautiful geometric gardens. The bottom picture is of the Love Garden. Top left is Tender Love with hearts separated by flames. Top right is Passionate Love where the hearts have been broken.  Bottom right is Fickle Love where the corners are fans that represent the volatile nature of feelings and the center represents the letters one would send a lover. And bottom left is Tragic Love with the blades of daggers and swords used in duels between rival lovers.  I offer no guidance on what the pair of vertical, dark green shrubs on the sides of each garden might represent. 
    
    
 Château  de Chenonceau was built over the river. There was a fresh flower arrangement in every room.  

    
    
 Château de Chambord. The largest and most unusual.