This is a nice gentle route through the French countryside on rural roads. The roads are not busy and the tranquility of the farmland this route travels through, makes this a very enjoyable stress free journey. The route passes through several delightful villages and crosses over the river Loir several times as it follows its course for some 50 miles (80 km). The route leaves the river at Vendôme and I have suggested a lunch stop here, there are several restaurants to choose from and you can also stretch your legs with a visit to the Trinity Abbey a former Benedictine monastery.
At RP 16, the route meets the mighty river Loire, France's longest river at 1,012 km, this route sadly only follows for 8 km and crosses the Loire at Amboise. The route actually crosses twice, firstly onto an island called l'Ile d'Or. The island was chosen in 503 by Clovis, king of the Franks, and Alaric II, king of the Visigoths, to sign a peace treaty. The history continues on the other bank of the river and a great view of the Royal Château d'Amboise can be seen as you cross the second bridge. The Château was confiscated by the monarchy in the 15th century, it became a favoured royal residence and was extensively rebuilt. King Charles VIII died at the château in 1498 after hitting his head on a door lintel! Justice?

The Regional Natural Park of Brenne is next and is sometimes known as "The country of a 1000 lakes". There are actually over 2,000 lakes and ponds and is a paradise for flora and fauna, especially migratory birds that stop there to reproduce. A dream destination for botany and ornithology fans, this haven of peace strewn with lakes and ponds, marshland, reed beds, moors, prairies and woods is home to no fewer than 2,300 animal and 1,200 plant species! Among its most emblematic are European pond turtles, purple herons and Eurasian Bitterns.
The third river followed by this route is La Creuse and this will take you to a smart little hotel in Argenton sur Creuse. There are a lot of roman ruins here which are worthy of a visit. The small town of Argenton sur Creuse is very picturesque with typical old houses with galleries and balustrades reflected in the water of the Creuse river. The best places to admire this beautiful scene are the old bridge over the river or the terrace of Bonne-Dame chapel perched on the hillside above, where the view over the rooftops and valley is stunning. Don't miss visiting the town itself for its pretty streets and lanes.
If you wanted to travel a little further south, the A20 (E9) is accessible from here and Limoges is just another hour away.

I have awarded 3 stars*** for this route as the roads, scenery and attractions are all good.