The Carmargue and Côtes du Rhône...

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Our Trip To Villard de Lans

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Our B&B in Tavel, France

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At The Grottes Choranches

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Today we visited the most famous château in the Loire valley. Château de Chenonceau was acquired by King François I from a nobleman who couldn't pay his bills. After the king died, his son, King Henri II, gave it to his mistress, Diane de Portiers, who was responsible for building the arch across the river as well as the gardens. After King Henri II died, his widow, Catherine de' Medici, had Diane expelled and claimed the château as her own.

After Catherine died, the château went to her daughter-in-law, Louise de Lorraine-Vaudémont, wife of King Henri III. After Henri III's assasination, Louise lived out the remainder of her days in mourning. She even had her room at the chateau painted black.

Another mistress, this time the mistress of King Henri IV, Gabrielle d'Estrées. The chateau passed to several owners through the years until it was owned by the Menier family, who owns it to this day. During WWI, the chateau was used as a hospital, and during WWII, it was used as a means of escaping from the German zone on one side of the river to the Vichy zone on the other.

It is very beautiful, and the furnishings are outstanding. You have to see this place to really appreciate it.

Until next time remember, you're wine glass should never be empty…