I just reviewed Jim's blog to try to avoid too much duplication of photos. We have many of the same images as you can imagine.
Laurie had a fall on day 3 but is doing okay after slightly injuring her wrists. But she's a trooper and is back on the bike doing well. Here she is getting ready for a big day 5. This is the courtyard of our home for 2 nights, Chateau de Chissay.
Pre-ride yoga led by a young power yoga instructor from San Diego (who was on the ride with us).
Our first stop was Chateau de Chinonceau. Jim documented a couple of the main women who played a major role in the history of this gorgeous chateau. Lots of intriguing story lines for sure.
As we strolled the gardens, Laurie noticed the poles and she is absolutely certain they must be for the esteemed Kentucky pole bean!!!
Yet another magnificent flower arrangement.
The chateau as viewed from the opposite side of Diane's garden (the powerful mistress).
More flowers! Beautiful weeds deserving of a photo.
Our lunch stop at Chateau de Nitray with a tour of the grounds and a wine tasting. As Jim says this guy was a wonderful character with a veritable twinkle in his eye.
An amusing sign along the roadway.
At the end of the day, I decided to do the long loop and give the legs a serious workout. The only stop was this stunning building, Chateau de Montpoupon, known as one of the most picturesque in all of France. Based on what I've seen this week it's hard to argue.
The clouds provided a suitably dramatic backdrop for this castle.
Our last night of the tour, we had a dressy dinner at our chateau. I had to wear the jacket and tie since I brought them all that way! Here's a cool spontaneous photo of Laurie and me with our superb guides.
Very glad we made the effort to get this photo. As Jim said, these guides were both incredibly energetic and smiling and took care of us extremely well. Their wonderful personalities really added to the flavor of the trip - we felt lucky.
This photo is for Colin. This town is in the movie "Catch Me If You Can" with Leonardo Dicaprio and Tom Hanks (highly recommended by the way). We actually rode through this town and checked out the wonderful farmer's market (which happens every Friday). I somehow lost my photos of this market (dang!!) but Jim has some nice ones). By the way, Colin, I did not see those buildings shown in the movie but it may have been filmed somewhere else. Great little town though, oozing French charm out of every side street.
One of the fascinating things about staying in these chateaus has been how eclectic they are. Every room seems to be different. A couple in our group stayed in this cave room. Wild, wild stuff.
Here is a view of the inside.
We took our high speed and comfortable train ride back to Paris. Yes, over 180 mph! Beats flying if you ask me!
Quick taxi back to our hotel on the Right Bank. Tired. Hungry (for no good reason). Ready for more Paris sightseeing tomorrow. 200+ miles on the bike and we are ready for a lot of walking now.
Off soon to find a good French restaurant. Can't wait.....
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Jim, not exactly looking like a native Parisian.
