Originally published on September 24, 2025.
We drove a couple of hours through drizzle on our way to Chartres. On the way into town we spotted a supermarché and stocked up on supplies for our Airbnb. Too early to check in, we headed straight to Chartres’ crown jewel: Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. Built mostly in the 12th and 13th centuries, it’s famed for its magnificent stained glass windows and its elaborate sculpted choir screen that tells biblical stories in stone.
Afterward, we checked into our centrally located apartment, just steps from the historic core. A short walk brought us to the tourist information center, where we gathered ideas for a full day of exploring. But with the chill and damp settling in, we decided to take it easy and call it an early night.
One more road trip day before the car goes back—stay tuned!
