CHINON lies on the north bank of the Vienne, 12km from its confluence with the Loire, and is surrounded by some of the best vineyards in the Loire valley. The spectacular line of towers and ramparts on the high ridge to the east of the town look as if they must enclose one of the best of this region's châteaux, but all is ruined within. In an attempt to make up for the loss, a medieval quarter below has been restored in over-sanitized fashion, and the town's total dedication to tou... [More]