Château de Nazelles

The enchantingly intimate and informal Château de Nazelles is snuggled on a hillside across the River Loire from Amboise. Dating back to 1518, the château was built by Thomas Bohier, who about the same time constructed his dramatic castle at Chenonceau. Château de Nazelles was originally a wine estate and hints of its heritage are still about, including a very large press and caves in the hillside where the wine was stored. Wine is still produced from grapes grown on the property. The ivy-laced building has a fairy-tale quality with its steeply pitched roof, tiny dormer windows, jutting chimneys, gables, and pretty white shutters. A side door leads into a spacious, lovely lounge for guests. The lounge and the guestrooms all present a fresh, uncluttered, airy look, with light pouring in through large windows, soft pastel colors, and lovely antiques. A narrow staircase leads up to two delightful bedrooms. My very favorite, the Viele-Griffin, is an especially spacious room with yellow walls, beautiful parquet floor, king-sized bed, large bathroom, and windows on two sides. Another really sweet bedroom is located in a separate cottage. A series of romantic little gardens surrounds the château, each a jewel. Another bonus is a large swimming pool tucked on an upper terrace.