Take three dogs, two rivers, a beatiful sunny afternoon and go for a walk around the picturesque village of Candes St Martin.
With ot without dogs its beautiful although they did enjoy their swim in the river. Here the River Vienne from Chinon meets (confluence) with the Loire downstream from Tours. You can cross over the bridge from Candes to get this spectacular view from the island, which when the river is low is more like a beach and a great spot to take a picnic or sunbathe.
The Ammarante an authentic flatbottomed wooden boat sets sail from here at 3pm most days for a leisurely 1 and half hour cruise along the river. The commentary mainly in French tells you a little of the history of the various chateaux and churches as you pass by. Is that a dog I see leading the way?
I even got chance to sit down and do a sketch of the village. Okay so I had no paper and had to use my cheque book. Could be a new form of cheque book art?
Back in the village and the first stop is Pots and Deco. Lots of funky pottery and paintings.
The village is decorated with the signs of the various artisans. Here is one for the pottery.
And another for Xavier the silversmith who makes bespoke jewellery based on your own design.
After visiting the church and viewing the magnificent entrance and stain glass windows of St Martin. Take s stroll up the hill to the Brocante and Café for a well earned tea or coffee.
Who can then resist a trip the Soap Shop to pick up some of this delicious handmade soap. It is a short drive away from Candes in the direction ot Fontevraud at Domaine de Mestre.
Take three dogs, two rivers, a beatiful sunny afternoon and go for a walk around the picturesque village of Candes St Martin. 
The Ammarante an authentic flatbottomed wooden boat sets sail from here at 3pm most days for a leisurely 1 and half hour cruise along the river. The commentary mainly in French tells you a little of the history of the various chateaux and churches as you pass by. Is that a dog I see leading the way?
I even got chance to sit down and do a sketch of the village. Okay so I had no paper and had to use my cheque book. Could be a new form of cheque book art?
Back in the village and the first stop is Pots and Deco. Lots of funky pottery and paintings.
The village is decorated with the signs of the various artisans. Here is one for the pottery.
And another for Xavier the silversmith who makes bespoke jewellery based on your own design. 
After visiting the church and viewing the magnificent entrance and stain glass windows of St Martin. Take s stroll up the hill to the Brocante and Café for a well earned tea or coffee. 
Who can then resist a trip the Soap Shop to pick up some of this delicious handmade soap. It is a short drive away from Candes in the direction ot Fontevraud at Domaine de Mestre.