Probably
Francois I's biggest extravagance
Chateau de Chambord in the Loire Valley
is a great reminder of what you could do
as a 'Royal' way back in the 16th
century. "I fancy a hunting lodge
- but let's make it a bit special"
What he got
was
over 400 rooms, 365
fireplaces and 84 staircases - but then
he had a great deal of 'hangers-on' who
had to be put up!
Sadly
however he only used it for about 8
weeks in all the time he was on the
throne.
In our opinion it is worth
seeing the double helix staircase and wonderful rooftop but
the rest of the
mainly unfurnished chateau is a bit of a disappointment.
The grounds are also impressive in that they are huge, like
the chateau but not sure if it makes the top of our
'chateaux to visit' list.
There is currently a major project renovating the gardens
surrounding the chateau.
