28th August 2025
There had been a slight shower overnight, so the canopy had to be put away wet. We set off to Vouvray by non-toll roads. Because the journey was relatively short, I had decided to stop at some sites on the way. I had searched out some chateaux on the route, and we stopped off at the first, Château du Champ de Bataille.
We were a bit perplexed, no big signs, some oldish but not ancient, ruined buildings. Then gates looked firmly closed, but a small sign urging you onward. We continued but were in half a mind to turn around. But we were here, so on we continued. Eventually a sign to the car park, and an empty car park it was, specially designed to park any mobile homes far away, but as a small campervan we felt we could continue into the normal car park..
We arrived at reception to buy tickets but found it unpersoned. A rude woman did appear, sold us garden tickets. We thought to buy house tickets, but the house was not open till later. Good thing too, took us several hours to do the garden justice. You could spend days here. It is fabulous. To see it at night with the lights on, and the fires blazing in front of the house would be magical.
Especially magical was the Grotte de Cybele, a recently constructed cave and pool. R was excited by finding a tiny frog in a pond. Another area had rows of Sphinx shaped bushes, all arranged in an alley. There were some interesting hot houses, with wonderful plants and furniture. The Temple of Leda with the sharp rock internal surfaces. The final spectacular view was on the steps in between the lake and the lawn going onto the house. Here there was several fire pits strategically placed along with lighting. Would make a magical setting for a wedding or a large party.
Back on track, we headed on to Vouvray through narrow lanes across fields planted with Maize and Millet. You could tell when you crossed departments, the ones keeping to 80kph, and the other departments which signposted 90kph.
We stopped for fuel. 156 for a litre. Diesel used to be much cheaper in France than the UK, whereas now it is about the same. Presumably because the UK has not added any tax to fuel for many years.
Arrived at Vouvray, and a sign outside campsite saying it was full. They did have some suggestions on the board where else to stay. So we are down the road a little way and stayed at Camping de Montlouis-sur-Loire. Seems Vouvray is at 50minute walk, with a track across the Loire on the railway bridge.
Campsite does have a busy road nearby, but seems to have quietened down. The entertainmement solo singer and guitarist is keeping us amused. At least he has stopped singing French music now.
Supper was the remains of the chicken and a tomato salad. The big box of tomatoes we had bought on arrival in France needs to be eaten soon, so choosing the softer tomatoes to eat.
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