Day 12, Monday 18 September (Liz’s birthday)
Tours to Chenonceaux
35k
Feeling: Good. Brilliant day.
Today, as well as being Liz’s birthday, is the first changeover day. James arrived in Tours last night and the three of us made the short ride along the banks of the river Cher to Chenonceaux this morning. It was a chilly start to the day, but with bright sunshine and the mist hanging over the river, we loved the ride.
Then, to the Château de Chenonceau – what a gem! A beautifully preserved insight into the politics and culture of France over a period of 500 years. Built by the banker to Charles VIII (bankers’ excesses are nothing new), and then extended on the bridge over the Cher by Catherine de’ Medici. We loved it.
This evening we shall have a glass of bubbly in Liz’s honour, and dinner in our hotel.
Liz leaves on the train to Paris early in the morning, and James and I head south. Long ride tomorrow.