Last weekend was a special time. Lots of privately owned chateaus – ones that are people’s homes – opened their doors and gardens to the public. Well maybe not all their doors but selected areas. We headed off with Caroline and Florence and had a wonderful time. My favourite chateau was Chateau de la Vervoliere on the outskirts of Coussay-les-Bois, a neighbouring village. Parts of it date back to the 13th century and it has been extensively renovated over the last 35 years by the current owners. We were able to visit the chapel and climb one of the towers. Wide spread views over the whole area. Apparenlty a very informative talk by the owner about its history – in French so not a lot to report! Caroline did her best to translate on the run. We also visited Chateau de la Guchiere, also quite near us. It’s built on the edge of a very steep cliff with a another chateau – looked very similar – across the valley and sitting on the opposing cliff top. Both were owned by the same family. No access to the inside areas but enjoyed walking around the gardens and checking out the views of the surrounding countryside.
Caroline took Reg and I to a classical concert in La Roche-Posay – our local village. It’s an annual celebration of the works of Haydn. Some very renowned musicians come to perform and people travel from far away to hear them. The highlight for us was a quartet of young men – 3 on violins and one on the cello. They were fantastic. The level of energy and passion they put into their music was inspiring.
We have also celebrated Caroline’s 35th birthday. Alexander was in Belgium – he spends a lot of time there running his business – so we all made a fuss of her. She was also feeling a bit sad as it was her first birthday without her mother who died earlier this year. So we had drinks under the trees near the pool and a birthday dinner in the dining room. The guests joined in and we all had a great night. We ate some of Caroline’s favourite foods – lasagna and chocolate cake – and toasted her birthday numerous times with some lovely wine.
It’s been busy lately – everything at once. Nearly the end of the season – only a week or so of guests being here. Will be strange not having anyone to cook for or look after! Of course we still have Florence – though it won’t be that long before Alexander, Caroline and Florence return to Antwerp in Belgium. Have to make the most of it!
Lots of love
Di and Reg
This entry was posted in Europe, France, House Sits, La Roche Posay, Vienne