Chenonceau

Chenonceau, in my opinion, is one of the most charming castles I've visited. This small castle makes up for lost size in it's decorations and lovely gardens. It was built over the Cher River in 1513 by Thomas Bohier. It was given to Diane de Poiters by Henri II, she was his mistress. After Henri got himself killed in a tournement, Catherine de Medicis booted Diane out. Many of the rooms have lovely woodwork and decorated ceilings. All the flower arrangements are composed of flowers that are grown on the castle grounds. Not to be missed are the Kitchen, the Green Cabinet, and the rooms of Louise de Lorraine, Diane and the room of the Five Queens. You can also walk around the grounds. Children seem to enjoy the donkeys, which are located to the right of the entrance after you go thru the gates, the best. Find the labyrinth, if you can.
**Additional info** There is gift shop, a flower workshop w/some very lovely and original dried flower arrangements, a snack stand, and restaurant(and a very nice and chic one at that!)on the castle grounds. There are some quaint hotels/inns in the village of Chenonceau, but you definitely need to reserve ahead of time. I'll try to add more hotel info when I go back!