The UNESCO-protected Loire Valley is home to some of the most gorgeous castles in the world. While you can certainly admire the large, famous ones, it’s best to focus on smaller, family-owned chateaux to get a more authentic experience.
To make the most of your time in the Loire Valley, plan your itinerary well ahead of time. This will ensure that you see as many of the castles as possible without wasting too much time driving.
Chambord
The Loire Valley is home to some of the most famous royal chateaux in France. With rolling vineyards and pretty stone towns, it’s an excellent place to visit.
The biggest chateau in the Loire Valley, Chambord is a stunning piece of Renaissance architecture. Commissioned by Francis I after he won the Battle of Marignan, it’s more than just a castle; it’s a powerful symbol of French royalty.
It’s also home to one of France’s most impressive collections of tapestries, and a number of temporary exhibitions. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top places to visit in the region.
It’s a huge complex, so you’ll want to arrive early to avoid the crowds. If you’re looking for something to do after your tour, you can rent a bike and take a stroll through the formal gardens. You can also ride a horse or rent a boat on the lake.
Azay-le-Rideau
The castle of Azay-le-Rideau, built during the Renaissance period, is one of the most beautiful chateaux in the Loire Valley. It sits on an island in the Indre River and its foundations rise straight out of the water making it seem to float.
It is one of the earliest examples of French Renaissance architecture. Designed by Gilles Berthelot, it was inspired by the Italian style of building.
After a recent restoration, this castle is now a top sightseeing destination. With its water mirror and sheer elegance it won’t fail to win over visitors!
Among the other highlights are a museum of Renaissance paintings and furniture. The town of Azay-le-Rideau is also worth visiting, it’s a small village with some interesting historic buildings.
Chenonceau
Located on the River Cher, Chenonceau is one of the most famous and enchanting chateaux in the Loire Valley. Nicknamed the “Ladies’ Chateau”, this majestic 16th-century masterpiece is a must-see on any itinerary in the region.
You’ll be enchanted as you stroll through the magnificent gardens and elegant gallery that stretches across the River Cher. It’s a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for Renaissance architecture and history.
Once you’ve made your way through the galleries, you’ll want to explore the regal grounds and enjoy a refreshing drink in the beautiful courtyard. Guests can also indulge in wine tastings at the Cave des Domes or take an evening cruise on the River Cher.
You can see all this and more on a day-trip to Chenonceau from Amboise or Tours. It’s a perfect place to visit with kids and families. It’s also an excellent base for exploring the rest of the Loire Valley. Whether you’re looking to stay in a hotel or a charming B&B, you’ll find a wide variety of options that are less than a kilometer from the castle.
Chateau d’Amboise
Located high on a hill, Chateau d’Amboise is one of the top ten castles in the Loire Valley. Its location on a strategic point of land over the river Loire made it a stronghold for the Kings of France.
The castle is surrounded by an old defensive wall and the town spreads out below. Amboise is a charming place to visit.
Inside the chateau there are many rooms that show how a royal family lived and how the different periods of history affected this palace. You can walk through the large Council Chamber where the King met with dignitaries and held feasts.
You can also climb up the Minimes Tower and descend through the Cavalry Tower to see a view over the Loire. There are also gardens that have been replanted in recent years to a modern style with Italian influences. Tall cyprus trees and round green oak trees are part of the planting.
