Dazzling decorations at

Dazzling decorations at the Chateau of ChenonceauChateau de Chenonceau dressed for the festive season © Tom Besse, Touraine Val de LoireThe Loire châteauxat ChristmasGilded grandeur andgarlands…From the end of November to the startof January, six of the most famouschâteaux of the Loire Valley get dressedup in their Christmas finery. If castleswore ball gowns – this is what theywould look like says Janine Marsh.The traditions of Christmas are celebratedin exquisite style as these Loire Valley castlesare richly decorated for the Noel au Paysdes Château festival to look like somethingstraight out of a fairy tale. Wind your waythrough the Valley of the Kings to discover sixof the best…Teddy bears made of moss, and Christmastrees in the kitchens of ChenonceauChenonceauOne of the most famous castles of theLoire, Chenonceau is known as the ‘Ladies'Château’, as it was gifted in 1547 to Dianede Poitiers by her lover, King Henri II and,after his death, taken from her by the King’swife, Catherine de Medici. Spanning theRiver Cher on a series of elegant arches,surrounded by glorious gardens, it’s alreadya stunning monument, but for the festiveseason, Chenonceau pushes the boat out andevery room is decorated in exquisite style. Thetheme changes each year, but you can be surethat the rooms will shimmer with floral artistry,16 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 17