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The Loire Valley is home to hospitable wine caves and historic chateaus, lively local markets and hilltop villages that overlook row after row of lush, green vineyards as fas as the eye can see. In fact, few places offer the mix of history, charm, mystery and sprawling natural beauty you'll discover in the Loire Valley.

Why not begin with a most unusual and "royal" choice that will provide plenty of stories for the folks back home? Enjoy a couple of nights (or more) at the Renaissance hunting estate of King Francois I. Yes, you can actually stay right on the grounds opposite the stunning Chateau de Chambord in the midst of a huge private hunting reserve! The charming

Hotel Saint Michel offers 40 quaint and comfortable rooms with many overlooking the castle from only 53 Euros a night. Amenities include private tennis courts (and car park), internet access, delightful indoor or outdoor dining and exceptional wine lists.

The largest walled park in Europe, the royal Chateau de Chambord soothes your spirit with quiet paths through huge, ancient forests and lazy little boat trips along the river. You'll also enjoy the stimulation of many entertaining activities throughout the preserve.Touring the castle takes you back to the early-to-mid 1500's, when up to 2,000 workers labored to complete the majestic retreat. Over 400 rooms, 365 fireplaces and 84 staircases make up the "hunting lodge" that looks over carpet-like lawns and the tranquil Cousson tributary. You'll discover falconry demonstrations and boat rentals, horseback riding and tiny shops that offer keepsakes reminiscent of the era, as well as sundries and snacks.

If you visit during the summer, you may be fortunate enough to see the light show - "les clairs de lune de Chambord" - a fantasy production created to recall the hunting of deer and boar, fox and pheasant by guests of King Francois. Couples share ice cream or light snacks under an outdoor arbor. Families visit the village that existed to support the chateau life. Others wander the grounds and imagine the privileged guests and game hunting of 300 years past. Then, all gather on the lawn before the castle that is bathed in light and surrounded by music. There is a wonderful sense of mystery and community in this ancient place.

Dining on the terrace, with the lights of Chateau de Chambord, glowing through the trees, select your chilled Vouvray and delicious plat du jour. You certainly will feel like guests of the king! And when the park closes, only hotel guests and chateau staff share the enormous sanctuary. You may spot a graceful stag or hear a menacing boar, but at the very least, the crisp night sky will offer millions of stars to illuminate your stay.

Hopefully your time and budget will allow you to explore the area around Chambord - the quaint Bracieux village with petite central square and pleasant shops, historic Blois overlooking the Loire and dominated by another Renaissance castle of King Francois I. Down river to the Southwest is Amboise, a typically charming town where da Vinci chose to spend his last years (his home includes spacious grounds and interesting exhibits). Throughout the Loire Valley, you will relish one memorable gift or surprise after another that will make your vacation there the perfect choice.

Learn more about this author, Sandra Sheridan.
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