Springtime in Chartres

Just an hour from Paris, Chartres is a pleasant day trip for a change of air and an uplifting view of the impressive and very beautiful cathedral widely considered to be one of the finest gothic cathedrals in France designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It dominates the skyline and must have been quite simply breathtaking on the horizon in times gone by, but be assured, it is still a powerful presence in the town and surrounding areas.  Plenty to see in this ancient settlement, now a town of just under 40 000 inhabitants.

http://www.chartres-tourisme.com/

Even in the spring we found plenty of flowers and greenery here.

A beautiful canopy of trees to give shade in the summer



Joyous, fresh yellow and white beds at the Tourist Office



An ancient stone marking the site of the Abbot's first house







More spring themed freshly coloured raised beds by the Cathedral

 The Centre for Stained Glass is also worth a vist with its  beautifully coloured panels.here's the entrance.

All in all, a very enjoyable day out.  Certainly a 'must see' if you're visiting Paris and have time for day trip.