The chateaux of the Loire and Cher valleys were mostly built in the Renaissance, a period when the French kings spent much of their time in the region. Blois, Chaumont sur Loire, Amboise, Chenonceau and Azay le Rideau are the best known of these chateaux. All around them is a gentle countryside full of charm for the walker, both when following the river, and when crossing the famous vineyards in an area much esteemed by lovers of white wine. When you walk from the Loire Valley to the Cher Valley you pass through forests, vineyards, and an area with wonderful architecture, all of these in a setting which is steeped in history.