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"Earth is round, Time is short"
.
... in the Loire Valley (France)
   

 

The Loire Valley, one and half hour South West from Paris by train is classified World Heritage by UNESCO. It is home of many castles and used to be home for several french kings, including Francois the 1st (early 16th century) who achieved the area's main architecural / historical achievements. The Loire Valley, outlined in red in this France map, is located south west of Paris, about 1h30 by train.

 

 

North East view of the Loire river taken in early October 2001 from a window of the Saumur Castle

 

 

Aisle of the Saumur Castle

 

 

Azay-le-Rideau Castle (the one which takes place in the tale of Cinderella ...)

 

 

 

Cheverny Castle, photographed above exactly as it inspired comics author Herge to design Cap'tain Haddock's castle / residence.

 

 

 

... traditional grape-harvest scenerey in Saumur area, October 2001.

 

 

Chenonceaux Castle and its entrance park.

 

 

Le Clos Luce, former residence of genius Leonardo Da Vinci.

 

 

Chambord Castle, a major architectural achievement in 16e Century.

 

 

"Relais & Chateau" of Noirieux, an excellent hotel and top-end restaurant next to Angers.

 

 

a view from the garden of the Noirieux Chateau.

 

 

A typical village main street on the Loire riverside.

 

 

The Usse Castle that inspired famous tale "the Beauty and the Beast"

 

 

For more information on the Loire Valley touristic area, I recommend this link :