Day Four- Did We Step Into a Fairytale and Ride Away Into the Sunset?

Day Four started on the bus

with a trip to Azay-le-Rideau.

 This lovely example of a Renaissance castle looks like something out of a fairytale.   Everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather and all of the gorgeous views.

Even with it's scaffolding, the castle still offered us it's beauty and splendor.

Walking throughout the castle, everyone remarked on the intricate carvings in the ceilings and the salamander symbol of François 1er stamped all over the castle.

It was easier for the students to imagine life in this castle as they were able to see furnished rooms.   While there were parts that were not original, it was interesting to hear how through books, journals and paintings, people were able to recreate the rooms historically accurately.   Fascinating.

Highlights of this visit were our lovely tour guide and the group discovering that Marc was François 1er doppelganger.

LOL, it's François 1er!

Engaged in the tour!

Castle grounds

Stairwell with portraits carved in the ceiling.

Uncovered during renovations, an older section of the castle.

Fairytale view!

Everything was pretty here.

A street in Azay-le Rideau

Just a really cool building.

Leaving Azay-le Rideau, we got back on the bus for the Cadre Noir.  This prestigious riding school only accepts 10 students a year.  They train in dressage( a lot like horse dancing) and compete in events all over the world.  Noteably, one of their riders placed in the last summer Olympics.   

This is a giant horse dryer.  Cozy.

The idea is for the rider to ask the horse to do different moves without the spectator noticing that they are two entities and not one.  It's beautiful to watch.