We've had a good week and for sure St Aignan has proven to be a central location for exploring this part of the Loire-Cher region. The town and the gite have had all we needed - watching the market set up this morning- literally on the doorstep - and then listening to locals meeting, greeting and doing their shopping has been a great way to end our stay. As everyone else who has stayed here has commented, the boulangerie/patisserie just around the corner is exceptional!
We ate dinner in the town at Le Huit. The daily menu at 23 euros for 3 courses was a bargain for a delicious meal.
We've been out and about each day, lots of chateaux visiting (of course) - Chenonceau, Chambord, Villandy and Clos Luce all recommended. Amboise and Tours both have lovely mediaeval squares and buildings, but we recommend taking the train to Tours, parking for free at Noyer sur Cher. The Abbey at Fontevraud is a bit of a drive but worth it to pay respects to Richard the Lionheart and Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine.
The weather has been kind for the time of the year, but much of the tourist activities (apart from visiting the chateaux themselves) have come to an end.
We return home reluctantly, but with great memories of our time here.