France Day 3

We awoke early in Dinan and explored the town. The best way to describe Dinan is an old town with an industrial flair. A huge train station sits in the middle of it and most likely is the reason for the industrial mood. We explored a 13th century castle ruins- Chateau Forte de Lehon and wall and door to the city- La Porte de Guichet. Brad posed as an archer by a murder hole and we imagined all of the battles fought around these ruins. Dinan was a strategic defense city during the 100 years war. 

We then made our way to Fougeres and took a tour of Chateau De Fougeres which has ancient history tied to french pagan mythology of the water goddess Mesulina. Legend has it that her bloodline was lucky in battle and conquest and her posterity was interwoven with the English Edward of York and his lucky conquests. This old castle was impressive with it's moat, draw bridge, water wheel, and dungeon. Again this was another castle built and used to defend for hundreds of years. It seems most ancient castles were built for defense. After exploring the castle we had a delicious lunch of crepes at a Creperie.

We spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the views of the Loire Valley- known for its forests. It is where many royal 17th century chateaus were built so the royalty could enjoy hunting and sport during the summer and traveling from chateau to chateau. We got stuck in traffic in Tours- a vibrant college Town and because of road construction couldn't make it to the chateau on our itinerary. Brad was quite frustrated but considering the luck we were having with driving, finding things, and great weather (no rain) we couldn't complain too much. We stayed the night in Bourges and saw the second biggest cathedral in France. It was HUGE especially for such a small town they must have had some rich rich sponsor or pooled all their money to build this. We did some shopping in the market and Brad chose dinner for the night at a Chinese restaurant- not very French at all but a good price for economic travelers.