Les Balcons
in Le Grand Pressigny is
a substantial 3 bedroom house ( sleeps 6)over two floors
with a delightful raised balcony offering lovely views to give you a
countryside feel but with all the village amenities.
Le Bourg is a lovely riverside barn conversion with separate 'petite maison' (sleeps 6+). The house is in the village of Barrou, 7k from Le Grand Pressigny and as the name suggests is located in the centre
of the village. Its situation means you have the benefits of experiencing a small French village but you are also ideally placed to visit all the major attractions of the Loire valley plus some of the highlights of the neighbouring department of 'Vienne.
A visit to Chateau de Breze is different in that outside the chateau is probably more
interesting than the inside! As you walk from the car-park
towards the chateau you are greeted by with a view of
what looks like 'just another chateau' but this only
half the story!
Once you start to cross into the chateau itself
it is only then you catch a glimpse of what lies ahead. The chateau
you first catch site of is in fact built over a complex 'second
chateau' carved out of the rock foundations.
All the excavations and underground work was
apparently to provide a safe haven from marauding invaders but
ironically during it's long history the chateau was never attacked!
There is a guided tour, where an understanding of some French is an advantage, though even without it you will be impressed. Outside there is an incredible system of underground passages and tunnels to explore, and probably for the kids to get lost in – this is where the guide comes in handy!
There are over 1 km of
underground passages, housing everything from the largest underground bakery in France
to an ice-house and a 'Son et Lumière' show on the bare rock of one of
the caverns. The château was transformed during the 16th and
the 19th centuries.
The current structure is Renaissance in style
yet retains medieval elements. Today, it is the residence of
descendants of the ancient lords. The château has been a listed ancient
monument since 1960.
If you have time, take in a visit to inside of the chateau- if you need more French culture -once you have found the kids again! (they probably wont like it as much)
Although this time might be better spent in the wine cellars of the
chateau doing a bit of 'tasting' - your choice!.
Open:
1st Feb. to 31st March - Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6.00pm
1st April to 30th Sept. open every day 10am - 6.30 pm
1st Oct. to 31st Dec. - Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 6.00pm
A visit to Chateau de Breze is different in that outside the chateau is probably more
interesting than the inside! As you walk from the car-park
towards the chateau you are greeted by with a view of
what looks like 'just another chateau' but this only
half the story!
