Visiting the Châteaux de la Loire

The château de Chambord

Born from the imagination of King François 1er and the work of Leonardo da Vinci, this castle combines harmony of curves and modernity. Although the architect's name remains unknown (as it was lost during the French Revolution, along with all the plans and writings on the construction), this castle is a true Renaissance jewel.

Among the curiosities and innovations of the time that distinguish it, we can mention: the famous double-revolution staircase where you don't cross paths, the double-pit latrines, a ventilation duct, the terrace waterproofing system...

The ornamentations are absolutely sublime: pilasters, medallions, candelabra and scrollwork embellish the facades with their finesse and multiplicity of motifs. The French-style gardens form a green setting around the château de Chambord.

Also to see:

• The estate and its multiple activities,
• The vegetable gardens where you can do your shopping,
• The vineyard,
• The stables,
• The shop.

The château d'Ussé

This castle is the one that inspired Charles Perrault to write his famous tale: Sleeping Beauty. This harmonious and fairy-like castle, which was once a fortress, has been modified over time into a castle where magic has never ceased to work: flowered terrace with view over the Indre, the keep, the walkway...

It is possible to relive certain scenes from the tale when visiting the château d'Ussé. Between history and legend, you will be captivated by the richness of the furniture, the carved wood panels, the famous trompe-l'œil ceiling perfectly imitating marble, a collection of weapons, oriental objects, magnificent 16th century tapestries...

Also to see:

• The majestic staircase,
• The king's bedroom,
• The exhibitions,
• The gardens designed by Le Nôtre,
• The cellars,
• The stables,
• The Chapel...

The château d'Amboise

This former stronghold is a perfect transition between Medieval and Renaissance architecture, it offers an exceptional view over the town of Amboise. Many artists have walked the floors of this castle including Leonardo da Vinci who rests in the chapel of Saint-Hubert.

You will appreciate the refinement of the French Renaissance style furniture, the architecture of the towers, the Renaissance garden, the richness of the fauna (80 bird species).

Also to see:

• Various seasonal activities,
• Meet the castle gardeners,
• Youth workshops,
• Night walks,
• Investigations...

The château de Cheverny

Thunder of thunder of Brest, this is perhaps the expression that will come to the lips of comic book fans of Tintin when approaching the château de Cheverny, because this one looks like Marlinspike Hall!

And for good reason, Hergé was indeed inspired by the architecture of this castle to draw that of Captain Haddock! Moreover, an immersion in the universe of the famous detective and his companion is offered on site.

Also to see:

• The interior decoration, the most abundant in the Loire Valley,
• The south facade decorated with busts of Roman emperors,
• The French-style gardens, 6 themed gardens,
• The labyrinth,
• The park,
• Discovering the park by electric boat,
• The collection of weapons and armors,
• The kennels...

The château de Valençay

This castle which was the residence of a minister of Napoleon: Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand-Périgord, was in his image. The latter created, in his time, a place of instruction for little girls, relief for the sick, a charity office, he had a school built for boys as well as a town hall. You can admire in this castle historical furniture of great richness.

Also to see:

• Very beautiful collections of furniture, sculptures, paintings and precious objects.
• A 19th century theater,
• Park and gardens of great biodiversity,
• The kitchens of the château de Valençay,
• The history of Prince de Talleyrand.

The château de Chaumont-sur-Loire

How many personalities have walked the floors of this castle: Catherine de Médicis, Diane de Poitiers, the astrologer Nostradamus, Benjamin Franklin, the princes of Europe... This jewel houses rooms with particularly rich furniture, and collections of contemporary art.

Also to see:

• The castle, its historical and private apartments, and the history of the castle,
• The historical park,
• The stables and saddlery which exhibits harnesses made by Hermès house.
• The horse-drawn carriages,
• A rich and varied cultural and event programming...

The fortress of Chinon

It is in this castle that Joan of Arc was received by King Charles VII in 1429. Built in the 12th century, this fortress located at a strategic location is composed of 3 castles: the fort du Coudray, the château du Milieu and the fort Saint-Georges.

Also to see:

• Discovering the castle, the history of the Plantagenets (the knight kings), Eleanor of Aquitaine, medieval life...
• Histopad, 360° 3D reconstructions are offered for an immersive visit,
• Interactions with collections and furniture through 3D manipulation, virtual visit of underground galleries,
• A 3D treasure hunt,
• An escape game,
• Exhibitions and activities throughout the year.

The château de Langeais

To discover:

• An extraordinary collection of furniture and tapestries distributed in 16 richly decorated rooms (late Middle Ages),
• Former royal domain with 11 hectares of park, playground and perched cabin, belvedere, construction methods of the builders of the year 1000,
• 1,000 years of history displayed in a playful way.