Château de Chenonceau

One of the most beautiful châteaux in France, built across the River Cher on a series of arches, with its long gallery reflected in the water. It's known as the 'ladies' château', as it was shaped by a series of remarkable women, including Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de' Medici.

Inside are richly furnished rooms, tapestries, paintings and the great kitchens in the piers below. The formal gardens of Diane and Catherine, the maze and the farm are lovely to explore. In summer you can hire a rowing boat to pass under the arches.