Set in 2,000 hectares of vineyards, Chinon possesses the vestiges of a glorious past with Charles VII, Joan of Arc and Rabelais among the central players. The historical town centre has superb 16 and 17th century buildings. The castle, once the stronghold of the Richelieus, was restored by Prosper Mérimée in the 19th century, marking the start of France’s interest in its historical heritage.

A few miles away is Saumur, dominated by an astonishing castle, a mix of feudal and Renaissance architecture. The town still has old buildings dating back to the Middle Ages and two attractive churches (St-Peter’s and N.D.de Nantilly)