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Château Chinon – a natural beauty
The town of Château Chinon is found nestling in the heart of the Morvan National Park, one of Burgundy's most beautiful natural areas. The town, famous as the place that had the president of France, François Mitterrand, as its maire for some twenty two years, is unspoiled and friendly, with excellent amenities. Château Chinon was once an important fortress town, and is proud of its strong reputation in matters military. (It is not to be confused with Chinon or Château de Chinon however, found in the Loire Valley.)
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A presidential heritage
Château Chinon is very proud of its illustrious ex-maire, and there is a museum in the town to prove this fact. The Mitterrand Museum (also known as the "Septennat", referring to the seven-year span of a presidency) is actually well worth a visit or two, as it houses a fascinating collection of the gifts that were presented to Mitterrand when he was in office. The town has another museum too, this time one which details the costume and clothing worn in France over the centuries.
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Shopping and dining
Château Chinon is a friendly little town and has good amenities. All local shops and services can be found here, including health care, banks and schools. There is also a cinema, library and swimming pool, as well as a number of highly recommended restaurants too. Burgundy is known for its fine wines and foods, and it is true to say that these are both reflected in the food and drink that you will find offered in Château Chinon! You may also like to visit the weekly market held on Saturdays, or the monthly fair held on the second Monday of each month.
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Out and about
Château Chinon is a good destination for sports fans and lovers of the great outdoors. The lakes, forests and waterways that abound suggest their own activities of swimming, fishing, walking, pony trekking, cycling and boating, or for something a little different you could take a trip to Magny Cours, the well known motor racing circuit. Places to visit in the area include the city of Nevers, the village of Vézelay, reputed to be one of the most beautiful villages in France, the "mustard" city of Dijon, and, of course, the canals and vineyards that so define Burgundy.
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How to get there
You can fly to Paris, which is within driving distance, or to Lyon in the south, which is a little closer. There is a regional airport at Dijon, but this does not offer direct flights from the UK. Paris is served by a multitude of airlines, including Air France, British Airways, bmi, bmibaby, flybe, easyJet, Jet2 and Aer Lingus. Lyon meanwhile is served by British Airways, Air France, easyJet and bmi. The train is a good alternative, as the TGV runs to Dijon. Trains can also be taken from Paris to Nevers or Autun, from where you can connect to a bus to Château Chinon. If driving the nearest major road to the town is the N81, though it actually lies on the D978.
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Property prices and availability in and around Château Chinon
There are some great properties on the market in and around the town at the time of writing. Burgundy is often considered to be an expensive area for property, but there are some real bargains about at the moment!
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CHÂTEAU CHINON AT A GLANCE |
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HOTELS IN CHÂTEAU CHINON
* online booking & great prices
* up-to-the-minute availability
* unbiased hotel reviews
* full confirmation with directions |
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