As many of you may be aware, my love of Paris and France is not just due to the sumptuous fabrics, antiquities and vintage pieces that are so readily available. I actually have roots in the Loire Valley, enabling me to have glorious holidays and breaks and obviously sample the worlds finest wines.
Recently Mr M and myself found ourselves on an escapade to the Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau in the Chinon area. We were exceptionally lucky with the weather, the sunshine was dazzling, yet the poplar trees were malting their fine feather-like seedlings. They floated graciously across the skies and littered the ground like a thick layer of snow. It was rather remarkable how much there was of the feather-like seedlings.
The Chateau was stunning. It has a central exterior stairway, created 'to-be-seen'. The frame-like windows have no glass so the Chateau's inhabitants could be seen going about their day to day business, however in cold weather the inhabitants would have to brave this majestic staircase or use their servants spiral stairways. I can't imagine having to use the staircase in any weather less than warm sunshine. Additionally the added pressure of always looking your finest to use your own stairwell...
The interiors boasted some fine pieces including a leather chair with embossed leather dating from the early 18thcentury. A striking four poster bed, rather narrow and extremely tall dominated a room. The upholstery was in mint condition. And finally an original tea set with floral print that was divine.
However it was the exterior of the Chateau that captured the public's hearts. Set within a small moat of clear green waters, the reflection of the castle on the waters was impressive. Furthermore a chorus of frogs in full mating mode sent visitors back to an age without cars, roads and general noise pollution. The grounds were impeccable as was the maintenance of the Chateau which dated back to the early 16th century.
Marie V
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