Chinon is located in the heart of the Val de Loire, 47 km (29 miles) southwest of Tours and 305 km (189 miles) south west of Paris. It extends on both the banks of the Vienne, with the historic town mainly on the northern bank, at the foot of the medieval castle. Chinon's importance derives in great part from its geographical position, located on the Vienne just before it joins the Loire. From prehistoric times, rivers acted as the principal trade routes, and the Vienne not only joins the fertile southern plains of the Poitou and the city of Limoges, but joining the Loire, gives access to both the seaport in Nantes and the Île-de-France Paris region, thus providing not only a natural protective barrier, but a source of wealth. The natural rocky outcrop that dominates the northern bank provides not only a natural fort and defensive position; it also acts as protection from flooding.

The camping area is situated staright across the river from the castle. Between it and the bridge across the Vienne river is a large sandy beach, eminently suitable for small children and Wendy..

The fireworks are not due to begin till about 11pm, so there were a few hours to kill. Once we had set up our campsite Wendy went for a swim at the beach while I went for a walk around town. Back up to the main square where we had procured our provisions earlier in the day. Through the square and into the maze of back streets surrounding the castle walls. I walked up and down little lanes trying to find access to the castle bur without any luck.So I followed around the base of the castle and eventually arrived at the main entrance opposite where we had been held up for so long by the motor bike procession when we first hit town. Had a walk around the accesible parts of the castle and then headed back for a snooze before the fireworks.