I’ve shared photos from my visits to Chateau d’Amboise, Chateau du Clos Luce, and Chateau du Chenonceau in the Loire Valley so far.  Today I move on to Chateau de Villandry.  In addition to the magnificent gardens, what I loved most about Chateau de Villandry was that a modern, “real” family lived here.  Well, as “real” a family as lives in a French castle with a mom who is an heiress.  In the early 1900s, the 16th Century castle was purchased by Joachim Carvallo, the great-grandfather of the current owner.  Joachim and his American wife, Ann Coleman, raised their six children at Chateau de Villandry.

Here are three of my favorite shots of the exterior of the castle.  What do you think?  Do you have a favorite below?

Chateau de Villandry Photo #1.  View of the Chateau de Villandry from a walkway between the Ornamental Garden and the Water Garden.

Chateau de Villandry Photo #2.  A heart-shaped frame around the castle courtesy of the stone rails along the walkway.

Chateau de Villandry Photo #3.  Lavender always makes me think of France, and so naturally this section of the Ornamental Garden was my favorite.

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• Chateau du Chenonceau Posts