Day 4 Wednesday 21st May 2008

We left Pouant around 9.30 am to go to the chateau at Chenonceau. It took longer than anticipated as one of the roads was closed. However we got there and decided to take an early lunch before we looked round the chateau and gardens. Inside there were several bedrooms to see with furniture, pictures and tapestries. It was a home to several high ranking ladies particularly Queens of France. Its main feature that distinguishes it from other chateaux is the long gallery used as a ballroom that spans the River Cher. It is possible to cross from one side to the other, a fact that was put to good use during the 2nd World War when people in the hospital were able to leave the occupied zone for the free zone. We also visited the kitchens which are built into the first two piers supporting the gallery. There are 2 formal gardens, both very beautiful, a 16th century farm and potager, a maze and woodlands.

After spending quite a while looking round we returned to Pouant via the Intermarché at Richelieu.

Start mileage 11891		Finish 12020		Miles travelled = 129
							Total miles = 535

Day 5 Thursday 22nd May 2008

This was a rest day. We stayed in until after elevenses. Elaine did some washing. We then went into Richelieu to do some food shopping at Intermarché.  After lunch we went back into Richelieu to walk around the park. The park is very large, although a fraction of the original size. There are still 3 buildings standing from Cardinal Richelieu’s grand palace. We looked at these whilst walking around then park. One building is called the Dome. The other is a wine and spirit store. The third may have been an Orangery.

We then walked into the town to buy some stamps. We also located an Internet and WiFi hotspot store and bought an icecream. On the way back to the car we called into SHOP! To buy some olive oil, some Black Sheep beer and possibly a shopping bag (but didn’t after we inspected them.)

Start Mileage  12020	Finish  12033	Miles travelled =13
							Total Miles = 548