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A great historical centre
The town of Blois, which is the capital city of the Loir-et-Cher department in central France, is one of France's greatest historical cities. Once a favoured residence of French royals, and also the ancestral seat of the Dukes of Blois, the town lies in a region which is home to some of the most famous and beautiful chateaux in the country. Blois has its own claim to fame on this score, with the glorious Château de Blois which can be found in the centre of the town.
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On the right bank of the Loire
Blois lies on the right bank of the lovely River Loire, and this stamps its indelible signature on the city. The sight of the amazing spires of the chateau seen from across the river is one that is not easily forgotten, and the riverside walks and cycle tracks are a never ending source of pleasure when spending time in Blois.
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Past glories, present pleasures
The town retains an air of grandeur which reflects its past glories as a favoured place for the royal family, and there is an undeniable beauty to almost every part of town. The mediaeval streets meander past the quaint half-timbered houses which speak of days gone by, but which now line the attractive pedestrianised shopping areas with their numerous pavement cafés and restaurants.
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Chateaux and gateaux!
Blois is a town which offers great delights for gourmets and wine buffs as it has some of the finest food and wine in France... allegedly! Certainly the town lies in one of the great wine regions and has a reputation for a delicious and refined cuisine.
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What to see and do in Blois
Blois has an infinite variety of opportunities for seeing the great chateaux of the region, and it is almost a rule of thumb that you should begin with the town's own magnificent chateau. Look also at the stone bridge that spans the wide Loire and the lovely Garden of l'Evéché. In the summer the streets of the old parts of town are enlivened by street entertainers, and in the winter, at Christmas, there is a magical ambience created by stalls selling hot chestnuts and mulled wine.
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Out and about
If you wish to explore a little further afield from the town, you will find yourself quite spoiled for choice. The area offers many of the greatest chateaux in France, so you may wish to visit some of these. The hardest decision is which to leave out! Perhaps you could begin with the Château de Chambard, the Château de Chinon, Château de Villandry, Château d'Amboise... it really depends on how much time you have available for chateau appreciation! Whichever you choose, however, you will not be disappointed.
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Sports and leisure
Central France has plenty to offer in terms of sports and activities. The area around Blois is no exception and seems to offer enough variety to please everyone. Golfers need only travel a very short distance to access their chosen sport, with a superb course located at the Domaine de la Carte, only just under ten miles from Blois. Swimming, cycling, walking, horse-riding and tennis are also easily found close to the town. Fishing is available in many of the lakes and rivers, with permits necessary but easily obtained from local shops and tourist offices.
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How to get there
The town of Tours provides the nearest airport to Blois, and you can fly directly to Tours from the UK with budget airline Ryanair. Tours also has TGV station which makes train travel a useful alternative.
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Property prices and availability in and around Blois
The area in and around the town is always popular, and remains buoyant. Property here is neither the most expensive in the country nor the cheapest, but usually presents a good investment opportunity as it holds its value well.
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HOTELS IN BLOIS
* online booking & great prices
* up-to-the-minute availability
* unbiased hotel reviews
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4/5