Elena Cordero

We are planning to visit Paris next year...and would like to visit some castles in Europe. Any suggestions or favorites. <BR> <BR>Thanks

Dayle

I just returned from France and spent a few days in the Loire Valley, plenty of Chateaux to choose from. Really enjoyed seeing the usual "biggies": Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Villandry, plus Ambroise, Azay-de-Rideau, and a few others from the outside only. Most of these are MAJOR tour bus stops, so if you are going in the summer, brace yourself. In spite of the crowds, I would still recommend all of the above, but you might want to see just Chenonceau and one other, then see some less visited. I stayed in the Chateau de Chissay (a historical monument and 4* hotel) and it was wonderful. It's outside Montrichard, very near to Chenonceau. Have a wonderful time! <BR>

jeanne

the first suggestions you got mentioned all the biggies-just 2 other things to add: <BR> <BR>If your focus is going to be French castles then be sure to buy the Eyewitness guide to the Loire Valley-it has great photos to help you decide which ones might interest you most. Be sure to leave yourself enough time-most people try to see 7-8 castles in 2 days or so-I believe that is a big mistake-2 or 3 of the Loire castles per day is much more sane-and of course that really depends on your own tastes in terms of pace, etc. <BR> <BR>Also, one thing you should consider is splurging and staying at one of the Relais and Chateaux chain of hotels-they have castles that are now hotels and they are known for the their elegance and food. However, be prepared to pack your lunch or skips lattes the next six months to pay for it-they are really pricey-but a real once in a lifetime memory. if you search this site for info-I am sure I have read some postings about favorite hotels in this chain. And also search for castles-I know there is lots of info here. <BR> <BR>Have a great time

Christina

Well, if you go to the Loire Valley, <BR>you'll have tons to choose from there as <BR>others have suggested. If not, one of <BR>my favorites is the chateau in Chantilly, an easy day trip from Paris <BR>by train. A beautiful setting and <BR>park/grounds, plus the chateau is a <BR>little more interesting than some as <BR>they have a mini-museum in it with some <BR>artwork and other things. Plus, Chantilly has an equestrian museum due <BR>to its relations to horse-training and <BR>racing. You can see the horses training <BR>if you time it right. Just don't go on <BR>a race day. <BR> <BR> <BR>

Elena Cordero

Thanks for the suggestions. I will definitely check these out and purchase the "Eyewitness guide to the Loire Valley.