Chinon

I thought I knew the area of Loire Poitou well, but I was pleasantly surprised upon finding Chinon. With a spectacular medieval fortress and well worth a visit to explore its streets where Joan of Arc and the Grand Master Templar would wander many years ago. The terraces add to the pleasant life on the streets of the historic center, and while you are there, be sure to enjoy a good wine from the region. The road to get there is nice, rolling along the river, and a note: be sure to park your car at the entrance of the site, or descend with a free lift to side of the gazebo. I would say that you can spend an afternoon in Chinon, and from there either to Tours, or the Abbey of Fontevraud, where the remains of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart.