"Montrichard on the river Cher near Chenonceaux" Montrichard by Beausoleil

We spent a wonderful three weeks near Montrichard in a gite rural (country cottage) that was as close to living in France as you can get in a month. The town was a delight even out of season. In season there is a lot more to do including a raptor show and a light show at the chateau. There is a beach with paddle boats across the river.

Montrichard is only about 7 miles from Chateau Chenonceau along the river. We drove to Amboise several times and also visited Chateaus Chaumont, Cheverny, Amboise, Luynes, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Fougeres, Blois and Montpoupon to name the ones that come directly to mind.

We found a favorite bakery and thoroughly enjoyed the twice-weekly outdoor market. There are several good restaurants in town, including the best pizza we've had in France. You also have Internet access in the local Tourist Office.

View over Montrichard and the countryside

Stop at the local Tourist Office. It's in a wonderful old medieval building on the square. Get a map of Montrichard and follow the walk they give you. At one point you climb a lot of stairs up to the back of the donjon and there is a bench where you can sit and see the entire world. I took this picture just below the bench. If you turn the other way, you look far up the Cher.

It is a stunning vista.

Market Day in Montrichard

The market covers several blocks and seems to sell nearly everything. They even had sabots (wooden shoes) and Geox shoes in the same booth. It's always fun to visit a village market and you absolutely can't leave without buying something. We got a wonderful smelly cheese and lots of fresh fruit.

• Pros:Charming medieval village, lovely historic area
• Cons:Slows down a bit in winter but still plenty to do
• In a nutshell:Relaxing, friendly and utterly charming