Tuesday, October 16, 2007

August 12-14: Dunes & chateaux





France is home to Europe’s largest sand dune, the Dune du Pilat, which rises 120 m over the Atlantic shore. It is spectacular to climb, but possibly more fun to run down, as you can see.


The Malaysian fluffs the landing!


A slightly more restrained individual.

Our next stop was the Loire Valley, home to many lavish chateaux. We stayed in a semi-luxurious restored chateau with a nice lakeside location. We also cooked for the first time in 3 months, and the everlasting smell of fried pork will forever greet future residents of suite 23.


And here is the “after” photo.


The Loire’s most ornate chateau is Chambord, a huge, decadent palace which served as headquarters for the keen hunters in the French court. Its imposing walls and towers house several prize catches, most of which would traumatise animal lovers. Naturally, pictures are included below.


Chambord. Nice moat.


The Hall of Freaky Antelope Heads.


What animal is this? Suggestions welcome.


The owners often took advantage of monthly specials on printed fabrics.

At last, having seen a giant fortress, a giant church, a giant dune and a giant chateau, we were ready to complete our vehicular voyage through verdant France, and head to Paris!

No comments: