Chenonceau
Yesterday we weren't very inspired, and we took turns being in bad, discouraged, or just plain weary moods. Even our hotel room didn't cheer us up, maybe because of the brown bug I found in the bedding that set off a storm of frantic bedbug research and inspections. Ah, travel!
Now we're back on the Loire enjoying the mellow velo vibe of the campground, nearby bike shop, and chill outdoor restaurant.
Lyle and I had a fun evening walk searching for a secret entrance to the local castle grounds. He wanted to leap the fence and sneak inside, but settled for a view from below.
Love to all,
Thankfully, tonight we're camping again with just the usual assortment of bugs. And it's a beautiful evening.
We shifted gears this morning to try to re-energize ourselves and headed south to Chateau Chenonceau instead of continuing on our planned route up the Loire. This was partly on Mom's recommendation, as Chenonceau was her favorite when we were here 40 (!) years ago on our 1983 tandem bike trip.
I think the change of pace really helped. The ride to and from Chenonceau was beautifully hilly and reminded us of riding in southeast England -- expansive views, dramatic skies, narrow country roads, and lots of ups and downs.
Chenonceau was fun and spectacular, though the castle itself was ridiculously crowded. We had a picnic and explored the grounds.
Now we're back on the Loire enjoying the mellow velo vibe of the campground, nearby bike shop, and chill outdoor restaurant.
Lyle and I had a fun evening walk searching for a secret entrance to the local castle grounds. He wanted to leap the fence and sneak inside, but settled for a view from below.
Liv
So great, Liv! I love your description---I didn't realize that Chenonceau was out of your way. That is a fantastic family portrait---you need to print and frame that one. What a sky! Also love Lyle peering out of the hedges, and Alex with the donkey. And the fist-pumping bikers.
ReplyDeleteAnd, um.....how did you get into the campground? Looks like a Do Not Enter at the entrance! Love, Borg
Haha, I didn’t notice the do not enter signs. That’s funny. I think there are several lanes one you get closer. -Liv
DeleteYay for donkeys. Louise
ReplyDeleteSounds like a lovely plan B. Sorry to hear about the unsuccessful storming of the castle… love those secret entrances!
ReplyDeleteGreat post, dear. Thanks for finding the energy to write these each day! Wonderful photos. But no food pics?!
ReplyDeleteI see Lyle increasingly in the driver's seat of the tandem! Well done! --toby
ReplyDelete