 |
Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, France | |
| Azay-le-Rideau, a graceful Renaissance château, seems to float on the Indre River. | ||
|
|
|
The Château d'Azay-le-Rideau is justly famous for its beauty and its unusual location. From its perch on the River Indre, the château is reflected in the water and seems to float there. Often compared to Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau is a smaller, quieter cousin. Its rooms contain a few items of carefully chosen furniture reflecting its history. With its soft lighting and picturesque windows offering views on the woods and water, Azay-le-Rideau is a charming château to visit. A short walk from the center of the town of Azay-le-Rideau, the château is reached by crossing a small bridge across the river. From this side one gets a wonderful view of the grand staircase. A self-guided tour takes you through 15 rooms, from the kitchen to the bedchamber of the king. Elegant furnishings and tapestries may be found in the rooms, as well as ever-changing views of the exterior of the château and its landscape. Most impressive, however, is to walk around the château and see it from the far side, where it is reflected in the water. From this perspective its graceful lines and elegant towers can be best seen. Walking paths through the woods allow for a pleasant stroll and a variety of views of the château. Benches allow weary tourists to rest and enjoy the view. Azay-le-Rideau is also known for its Son et Lumière, or Sound and Light show. Visitors wander the grounds at their own pace, while music and illuminations create the ambience of the Renaissance. If you want to combine a visit to Azay-le-Rideau with other nearby châteaux, consider also going to Villandry, Langeais, or Ussé. A bit farther, but still in the same area, is Chinon. In addition, during the summer months, consider a visit to the nearby Château de l'Islette. Now privately owned, the family opens it to visitors for part of the year. Considered the smaller "sibling" of Azay, it's a delightful place. Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
|
|
Above, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, France. Below, King's bedchamber, Azay-le-Rideau.
|
