Loire Valley

It took about 6 hours to drive to the Loire Valley from Avignon through picturesque countryside. We stuck to the freeways which are quick, but the tolls are expensive. It was good to get to our 'base camp' of Amboise. Ibis Budget here we are again…well for one night anyway. The "free wifi" ended up being free because it was useless! There are lots of things we can put up with - tiny simple rooms, modular (but perfectly clean) bathrooms, none of the extra little touches like soaps, shampoos, tissues, kettles, hair dryers or plugs but we can't do without wifi. And yes, it is supposed to be a holiday but there are always emails to check and work to attend to each day. The solution? Pay extra and check into the Novotel next door. Now Karl has a man cave for his bike with his own shower at the Ibis for the next two nights and we get to stay in a nice room with great wifi. You get what you pay for and a stunning view to boot! Yes, this was taken from our window:

Amboise is a beautiful little town in the heart of the Loire Valley. One of our favourite things to do is just sit and soak up the ambience in the town squares whilst enjoying a caffe creme or a glass of wine. I really have to pinch myself that I'm actually here in France!

We are close to many of the huge chateaus and while they are majestic and beautiful, they aren't really our thing so I think one or two will be plenty. After all, once you've seen one 15th century mansion, you've seen them all, right? This one is Chateau Chenonceau. One of the features were the beautiful fresh floral arrangements in nearly every room! (You'll have to excuse the slight lean on the flower photo - its a case of taking a quick pic before someone walks into the frame!)

Just think of all the feet that have trod on these tiles over the years!!!

Today was cloudy in the morning but clear blue day by lunchtime. We have two full days here and I'm torn between taking a break, sorting and editing photos in our luxurious room (by previous standards anyway!) and getting out and about, making the most of each moment. This afternoon I've opted for the former while Karl rides.