Visit and stay near the Châteaux de la Loire in Loir et Cher

The Loir-et-Cher is a region rich in history and culture, with many prestigious châteaux. The châteaux of the Loire are one of the region’s most emblematic symbols, and a must-see for all lovers of architecture and history. In this article, we invite you to discover the main châteaux to visit in the Loir et Cher and Indre-et-Loire regions, as well as an ideal campsite to stay at.

Visit the Châteaux of the Loire

Visiting the Châteaux de la Loire is a unique experience for lovers of history and architecture. The châteaux of the Loire, built between the XVᵉ and XVIIᵉ centuries, are a testament to French history and culture. There is a wide variety of châteaux to visit in the Touraine region, ranging from Renaissance to classical-style châteaux. The châteaux of Chenonceau, Villandry, Montrichard, Beauregard, Chambord, Cheverny, Montpoupon, Amboise, Clos Lucé, Chaumont and Blois are all must-sees for lovers of history and architecture.

Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord is one of the largest and most iconic of the Loire castles. It was built in the XVIᵉ century by François I as a hunting residence. The château is famous for its impressive architecture, which blends Renaissance and Gothic styles. The château is known for its massive towers, pointed roofs, tall Gothic windows and numerous staircases. It is the largest château on the Loire and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Today, it houses a museum, gardens and forests, where you can admire the region’s wildlife. Chambord is a real wonder to behold.

Now one of the most visited châteaux in the Loire Valley, Château de Chambord attracts thousands of tourists every year to discover the history and beauty of this incredible monument. It’s also a meeting place for art and architecture enthusiasts, who can explore the château’s many art galleries and showrooms. Ultimately, Château de Chambord is a symbol of France’s wealth and power, as well as an architectural gem not to be missed.

Chenonceau Castle

Château de Chenonceau is located in France’s Loire Valley. It is considered one of the region’s most beautiful châteaux. It lies close to the River Cher, and its history goes back more than 500 years. The château was built by seigneur Thomas Bohier between 1513 and 1522, and enlarged by Catherine de Médicis.

She added a gallery-bridge to link the château to the other bank of the Cher, giving Chenonceau its unique character. During the Hundred Years’ War, the château was used as a strategic point by French and British troops. Over the centuries, the château has been the residence of numerous celebrities, including Louise de Lorraine, Diane de Poitiers and Louise de La Vallière. Today, Château de Chenonceau is a very popular tourist site, and one of the most beautiful and interesting châteaux on the Loire.

The Château d’Amboise

The Château d’Amboise is located in the town of Amboise in France and was built in the XVᵉ century. It has been the residence of several French kings, including Charles VIII and François I, all of whom contributed to its development and enrichment. Château d’Amboise was considered one of the most important cultural and political centers of the French Renaissance.

The château’s architecture is remarkable, with its towers, ramparts, loggias and pointed windows. The château also features several magnificent gardens and a royal chapel housing the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci. The château was restored in the XIXᵉ century to make it a popular tourist attraction, and offers spectacular views over the Loire River and its valley. You can admire the architecture and decorations of the château’s interiors and exteriors.

Today, the Château d’Amboise is one of the most important tourist sites in the Loire region, attracting thousands of visitors every year to explore its history, culture and architecture. Visitors can also enjoy views of the Loire Valley from the château’s ramparts, and discover the many gardens and parks that surround the site.

The Royal Château of Blois

The Château de Blois, located in the department of Loir-et-Cher, is a veritable jewel of French history. It was built in the XIIᵉ century for the Count of Blois and has played a central role in French history ever since. Indeed, it has been the coronation and residence of several renowned French kings, including Louis XII, François Iᵉʳ and Henri III. However, its fascinating history doesn’t stop there.

In the XVIᵉ century, the château underwent a major transformation that metamorphosed it into a Renaissance palace of incomparable beauty. This renovation harmoniously fused Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements, giving rise to a structure unlike any other. Within its walls, visitors can discover a veritable architectural treasure trove, characterized by its many majestic towers, four picturesque inner courtyards, sumptuous facades and carefully tended gardens.

The Château Royal de Blois is more than just remarkable architecture; it’s also a window on France’s rich past. Every nook and cranny of this castle resonates with the echoes of royal intrigues, grandiose festivities and crucial historical decisions. So there’s no doubt that this historic fortress is a must-see for lovers of French history and heritage. When you visit, you’ll literally plunge into the living pages of French history, and have the opportunity to admire up close the harmonious marriage between the Gothic and Renaissance eras that makes the Château Royal de Blois a priceless cultural treasure.

The Château de Villandry

Château de Villandry is a spectacular Renaissance-style château located in Villandry, France. Built in the early XVIᵉ century by Jean Le Breton, then minister to François I, the château is an architectural marvel with its rich interior and exterior decorations, magnificent formal gardens and magnificent views over the Indre valley.

The castle’s structure has been carefully preserved, and visitors are invited to explore its rooms, courtyards and gardens. The gardens offer a variety of colors, textures and shapes, and visitors can admire rare plants and flowers, as well as sculptures and fountains. It’s a magical place not to be missed.

Château de Montrichard

Château de Montrichard is a magnificent Renaissance château in France’s Loire Valley. Built in the 16th century, it is renowned for its spectacular gardens and colorful walls. The château is a testament to Renaissance architecture, and has been preserved and restored to perfection. The gardens are a marvel of color, form and texture, and the interior walls are adorned with frescoes and tapestries.

Château de Beauregard

Château de Beauregard is a medieval château in the Loir-et-Cher département. It is flanked by two circular towers and offers a magnificent view over the Loire Valley. It is at the origin of a major military defense network and was built in 1316. It was used as a seat by several lords and was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries. Today, it is open to the public and houses a museum, exhibitions and guided tours. Visitors can also enjoy the magnificent gardens and hiking trails surrounding the castle.

Château de Cheverny

Château de Cheverny is an incredible Renaissance château located in the Loir-et-Cher region of France. It was built in the early XVIIᵉ century for Count Harcourt and has remained in the same family for over three centuries. Château de Cheverny is an architectural marvel, with its majestic staircases, magnificent rooms and carefully tended gardens. It is renowned for its many works of art, its collections of antique furniture and objects, and its spectacular formal gardens. Château de Cheverny is one of the finest châteaux in the region and a must-see for lovers of history and architecture.

Château de Montpoupon

Château de Montpoupon is a magnificent French château located in the Centre-Val de Loire region. It was built in the XVᵉ century by the famous lord of Montpoupon, Claude de Montpoupon. The château has undergone several modifications, and today comprises a keep, three corps de logis, two entrance towers, moats and formal gardens. The château is a listed historic monument and is open to the public for guided tours. It is one of the finest examples of French Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and offers spectacular views over the surrounding landscape.

Le Clos Lucé

Le Clos Lucé is a historic manor house in the town of Amboise, France. It is famous for having been the last residence of the famous inventor and artist Leonardo da Vinci. He stayed here between 1516 and 1519, and created several of his inventions, including the famous flying machine. The manor also houses replicas of Da Vinci’s main inventions. Today, the manor is open to the public and offers lively guided tours, exhibitions and cultural events. A trip to Le Clos Lucé is a unique and fascinating experience, allowing you to see the work of one of history’s greatest inventors and artists.

Chaumont

Château de Chaumont is a medieval castle in Chaumont-sur-Loire, France. It dates back to the 10th century and was largely rebuilt in the 15th century. The château has served as a residence for lords, kings and aristocrats over the centuries. It has been the site of many historic events, including the inheritance of François I to his daughter Marguerite de Navarre, and the hosting of Diane de Poitiers and members of the royal court. Today, the château is open to visitors and offers exhibitions on its history.

Visiting these castles is an opportunity not only to discover the incredible architecture of these buildings, but also to learn more about the history of France and the people who lived there. It’s the perfect opportunity to travel back in time with friends or family, and retrace some of the key events in our history. You can get there easily by staying at La Grande Tortue campsite, just a few dozen minutes’ drive from most of the castles.

Where to stay at a campsite near the Châteaux de la Loire?

Camping La Grande Tortue is the ideal place to stay when visiting the Châteaux de la Loire. The campsite is located on the banks of the Loire, offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding châteaux.

Camping La Grande Tortue offers different types of accommodation to suit all needs and budgets. There are pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as mobile homes and chalets for those who prefer a little more comfort. If you’re looking for something a little more original, you can even stay in an unusual accommodation.

In addition, our Châteaux de la Loire campsite has an outdoor swimming pool for cooling off on hot summer days. There’s also a children’s play area, a playground for teenagers and sports fields for adults.

La Grande Tortue’s geographical location is also ideal. It’s close to many of the region’s most famous Loire castles, such as Chambord, Cheverny, Amboise and Blois, making it an ideal base from which to explore the Loire castles.