Cyclamen at Chateau de Sainte Pallaye

Yesterday at we came across an extraordinary sight.  Well it is perhaps only extraordinary if you are a gardener or flower admirer.

Our first sight from tow path near railway lone.  The smell was quite sickly and very powerful.

quote from internet:

'Château de Sainte Pallaye
It was built in the 18th century by the Lacurne brothers and is a listed building. The garden was created in

1740 by Polet, from drawings by Lenôtre. The Château is privately owned; no visits allowed. 
In spring, you can admire the carpet of wild cyclamens that adorn the castle entrance. '
(they were actually flowering in late September!)

Chateau in the background

Filling up water tanks ready to leave Vermenton

Mooring at Vermenton