We were in the Loire last September and you are right they are all quite wonderful. So depending on your time frame I think Chambord, Chenonceau and Villandry are tops - Assez-le-Rideaux is also up there. Depending on time you can do about 2 or 3 in one day - we did Chambord, a visit to Vouvrey for lunch and then Chenonceau on the way back to our hotel in one day. Villandry we spend a lot of time at as both the inside and the gardens are awesome.

Enjoy.

Carol Toronto