Bordering Anjou and Poitou, the town of Chinon stretches out along the Vienne River at the foot of a limestone hill dominated by its impressive fortress. The town had its heyday in the Middle Ages under the reign of Henry II or Henry Plantagenet, King of England, who ordered the construction of the bulk of the castle. He would holiday here regularly before dying in Chinon in 1189. After being integrated into the French royal estates in 1205, the town had a revival during the 15th century during the 100 Years War, becoming one of Charles VII’s favourite residences. It was here that Joan of Arc and the future king first met. Attracted by the royal presence in Chinon, the population grew. The town got larger and the churches grander, and numerous timber-framed houses were built.

As you leave the hotel, you’ll be able to see all this history up close. Just 5 minutes on foot from the hotel, stroll around Old Chinon with its winding lanes between the banks of the Vienne and the château. Then visit the Caves Painctes wine cellars, the Grand-Carroi crêperie or the Maison Rouge restaurant, followed by the St-Etienne and St-Mexme churches or the Ste-Radegonde chapel. And of course, discover the medieval fortress. Superbly restored, its fortified walls stretch out over 500 m in length, housing the Fort Saint-Georges to the east, the Château du Milieu in the middle with the clock tower and royal residence, plus the Fort du Coudray to the west.