アゼ＝ル＝リドーの天然記念物・トップ5

The route directly to the confluence is not really recommended for racing bikes

One thing is for sure: don't worry, you can cycle in the Chinon forest without the risk of encountering a single wolf. The last wolf was shot in Cheillé in 1789. Although this poor animal is no longer there, the forest is still home to numerous species of large and small wild animals (deer, roe deer, wild boar, foxes, etc.) and, exceptionally, also rare protected species of birds, amphibians and insects, such as the natterjack toad, the alpine rose-ball toad and even the middle spotted woodpecker (cousin of the great spotted woodpecker) and the sparrowhawk. The 5,140 hectare forest massif has a rich and varied flora, in which winter oaks, Scots pine, maritime pine and beech predominate.

Villandry Castle is one of the Loire Valley castles renowned for the beauty of its gardens. During the beautiful seasons, trees, shrubs and flowers color the decor with iridescent hues. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the castle is today a private property open to the public. It is possible to visit its interior which houses occasional and permanent exhibitions. The entire castle and its gardens were included in the list of historic monuments in 1927.

A few steps from the Château de Villandry, you will find these old freestone quarries dating from the Middle Ages and petrified caves. About 100 million years ago, in the secondary era, a shallow sea covered our region. At the bottom of the sea were deposited masses of chalk which, once exposed to the air, formed the dominant rock of the Loire Valley: the Tuffeau. This soft stone, but sufficiently hard, was used in the construction of the most elegant castles of the Loire. The quarries ended up being waterlogged and abandoned.

very rolling perfect gravel!

The Château de Villandry, whose construction began in the 16th century, is particularly known for its gardens, which cover more than six hectares spread over four levels. The castle is perfectly maintained and can be visited year-round, but it is for its gardens that Villandry is a must-see.

The castle tower provides a breathtaking view of the gardens.

A few steps from the Château de Villandry. To be preferred on hot days :)