Chateau de Chenonceau straddling the River Cher

Published on: 12th November 2012
By Green Jersey Cycling

The Chateau de Chenonceau straddles the River Cher, and is one of the many chateaux we pass when cycling the Loire, built on the site of an old mill and dating back to the 11th century, being a unique example of French Renaissance architecture and garden design. 

You have to love these sights if you are planning a Loire Valley cycling holiday, tucked around each corner is another grand example of French architecture, culture and a wealth of history.  

During world war two, one river bank was in German occupied France and one in Vichy France. The bit above the arches was a hospital and soldiers used to escape in to Vichy France. Lots of famous owners including Diana de Poitiers, Catherine de Medici, the Dukes of Bourbon. Also note the chateau is spelt without an ‘x’ at the end whereas the village it is in has an ‘x’. 

Green Jersey Cycling: 12th Nov 2012 09:00:00