Le Chai sur Vienne

Loire valley - 5km to Chinon - Chateau and Vineyard Country

The Area

Le Chai is situated in the heart of he Loire Valley, only three miles or five minutes drive from the medieval town of Chinon. Long the home of the kings and queens of France it is renowned as the "Garden of France". The area is steeped in history and culture and there are many interesting sights to see and places to visit. None more than the many chateaux to be found in the region. The ones at Amboise, Azay le Rideau, Chenonceau, Usse and Villandry are all within easy reach of Le Chai. And there are many more, including the one in Chinon, a massive fortress overlooking the Vienne. This famous castle dates from the reign of Henry II, father of Richard the Lionheart and King John. Chinon is also famous for the visits by Joan of Arc and as the home of Rabelais.

The Chateau at Chinon

The region is also famous for the excellent wines produced. The vineyards at Borgueil, Saumur, Vouvray and, of course, Chinon are well worth a visit. In fact, the red wine from the owners' vineyard is highly recommended.

The Amenities

Chinon, which has a population of approximately 10,000, is small enough to cover on foot, but large enough to have all necessary amenities There are several supermarkets and shops, an abundance of restaurants serving excellent food, bars, pavement cafes, markets, banks if you need them and for the energetic there are excellent swimming-pools, horse-riding, golf and much more to see and do.