The Châteaux of the Loire Valley
Remains of France history, the Châteaux of the Loire valley are landmarks that everyone should visit at least once in their life.
From Nantes to Orléans, travel up the Loire and stop off as you like to (re)discover these jewels of heritage. Visit from one to seventeen of these emblematic châteaux by following this itinerary.
Precise and meticulous architecture, flower gardens, wooded parks, palatial interiors… set in green settings, the Châteaux of the Loire Valley invite you behind the scene to discover their history and secrets. There is no doubt that this journey through time will be etched in your memory for a long time to come!
The Château des Ducs de Bretagne
The Château d’Angers
The Château de Brissac
The Château de Saumur
The Château de Chinon
The Château de Langeais
The Château de Villandry
The Château dʼAmboise
Step
The Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Kilometer 0
To discover
The most “urban”
Situated right in the heart of Nantes, the Château des Ducs de Bretagne is the first emblematic monument to be discovered on this itinerary along the Châteaux of the Loire Valley.
A famous residence of the kings of France in Brittany, the castle is remarkable for its two distinct parts: in the urban part, there is a 500-metre-long rampart walk and, in the courtyard, a 15th-century ducal palace built of tufa stone.
This magnificent residential palace was built by Francis II, the last Duke of Brittany, and by his daughter Anne of Brittany. It bears witness of six centuries of history!
Visit both the castle and the History Museum of Nantes. Enjoy the discovery!
Did you know ?
Anne of Brittany
Anne of Brittany is the only woman to have been Queen of France twice, following her two consecutive marriages to Charles VIII and Louis XII!
Good deal
Mobilboard Nantes
City Tour Nantes
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 2€ discount on the adult price (10€ instead of 12€).
Vélo-Loco
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, get a 3€ discount on the adult rate (12€ instead of 15€).
Bateaux Nantais
Moto Reverse Location
Sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES, profitez de 10% de réduction sur la location !
Valid
from 15/03/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Bénéficiez de 20% de remise sur les prestations "balade en segway" et sur la location de trottinette électrique sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES
Valid
from 15/12/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 2€ discount on the adult price (10€ instead of 12€).
Valid
from 15/12/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, get a 3€ discount on the adult rate (12€ instead of 15€).
Valid
from 04/01/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 10% discount on your lunch or dinner cruise (adults rate): Service Premier or Étoile
Or 2€ off the adult price of a sightseeing cruise along the Erdre (Erdre et ses Châteaux, Cœur de Ville or P’tits Mouss’).
Step
The Château d’Angers
Kilometer 91
To discover
The most “impregnable”
On the banks of the Maine, the 11th-century castle of Angers dominates the city centre with its 17 tours and 650 metres of length. Its white tufa stone, typical of the Anjou region, contrasts with the black schist stone originally used to construct Saint-Maurice cathedral, but requisitioned in 1230 to build the castle.
Travel back to prehistoric times: although the castle was built in the Middle Ages, its position upstream from the Loire was coveted and occupied from Neolithic times by the Gauls, then by the Romans, who made it the centre of the ancient town.
The castle of Angers is also a fascinating cultural venue, combining tapestry exhibitions, plays, gardens, but also the oldest portcullis in France and the Apocalypse Tapestry, listed on the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.
Did you know ?
Water in the moat?
Well... no, the castle moat has never been filled with water. As for René d’Anjou, he would prefer to welcome wild animals to defend the castle (cheetahs, wolves, lions...).
Good deal
Aire CAMPING-CAR PARK
Valid
from 06/01/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
"For stays of between 7 and 21 consecutive days, receive a 10% discount on the total amount of your stay (excluding tourist tax).
Offer valid only on booking by contacting our Customer Service on +33 1.83.64.69.21"
Step
The Château de Brissac
Kilometer 109
To discover
The most “vertiginous”
Further along the Loire, you finally reach the Château de Brissac.
The seven storeys of the château are sure to impress and explain its nickname of “Giant of the Loire Valley”.
Brissac also has an astonishing history: the château has belonged to the same family since 26 May 1502, when it was bought by René de Cossé, a gentleman from Angers. Half a millennium later, the descendants still inhabit the château.
The 70-hectare landscaped garden invites visitors to relax and meditate among the vineyards. You can even enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars and try the excellent Rosé d’Anjou!
Did you know ?
The Château de Brissac is said to be haunted on stormy nights.
It is believed to be the ghost of Charlotte who occupies the premises: a fickle wife caught by her husband, Jacques de Brézé, in the bed of another man. Out of anger, the jealous husband killed the two lovers with his sword.
Good deal
Camping de la Coudraye
Auberge du Cheval Blanc
Sur présentation de votre Pass Etapes, un verre de Coteaux du Layon vous sera offert.
Valid
from 01/07/2021
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, enjoy free access to the campsite swimming pool.
The swimming pool is open 7 days a week in July and August from 10 am to 7 pm. Swimming is not supervised.
Auberge du Cheval Blanc
Postal address
: 3 place du prieuré 49380 Bellevigne en layon
02 41 54 04 40
Valid
from 04/07/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Sur présentation de votre Pass Etapes, un verre de Coteaux du Layon vous sera offert.
Step
The Château de Saumur
Kilometer 152
To discover
The most “fairy tale”
Set in the Loire Valley and classified as a World Heritage site in 2000, the Château de Saumur is located along the historic route of the Valley of the Kings, a series of sumptuous châteaux representing France's heritage. The castle's first fortifications date back to the 10th century, and have since been home to a number of different populations: Dukes of Anjou, governors, prisoners of war and soldiers.
It is now open to the public and has housed the collections of the Musée Municipal and the Musée du Cheval for over a century.
Did you know ?
The Valley of the Kings
Why did the kings decide to live in the Loire Valley? Probably because of its mild climate and fertile soil ideal for parks and vegetable gardens.
Good deal
Saumur Val de Loire Tourisme
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, you will be offered a tote-bag. This will include full documentation on the Saumur Val de Loire destination.
Valid
from 01/02/2021
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, you will be offered a tote-bag. This will include full documentation on the Saumur Val de Loire destination.
Step
The Château de Chinon
Kilometer 186
To discover
The most “medieval”
Continue your journey along the banks of the Vienne. The Château de Chinon stands majestically in the heart of the old town. From its rocky spur, it overlooks and offers a panoramic view of Chinon. Divided in two distinct parts, the château reveals a fascinating duality: on one side, an imposing medieval fortress whose towers and ramparts bear witness of its military past; on the other, an elegant seigneurial residence, proof of the finesse of French medieval architecture.
Once residence of kings, the Château de Chinon has been the scene of major historic encounters, such as the one between Joan of Arc and Charles VII.
Discover the captivating exhibitions of the museum, relive the siege of 1204-1205 thanks to the immersive Histopad visit and try the Monument Game, a unique escape game concept in the fortress!
Did you know ?
A true fortress, the Château de Chinon boasts no fewer than 7 towers: the Clock Tower, the Coudray Tower, the Treasury Tower, the Boissy Tower, the Dog Tower located next to the royal kennels, the Mill Tower built on the initiative of Richard the Lionheart and the Argenton Tower.
Step
The Château de Langeais
Kilometer 212
To discover
The most “historic”
On the banks of the Loire, the Château de Langeais stands out for its imposing architecture and well-preserved fortifications, evoking the atmosphere of fortified castles of yesteryear. With its massive tower and moat, it looks like something straight out of a tale of chivalry.
A witness of French history, the Château de Langeais was the scene of major events in 1491, including the famous wedding of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany, symbol of the alliance between France and Brittany.
Explore its decorated rooms and immerse yourself in its fascinating past, when knights and princesses reigned supreme. An unforgettable medieval experience awaits you at the Château de Langeais.
Did you know ?
Souvenir photo
It is impossible to capture the entire château in a single shot. Surrounded by houses, not even the best photographers can rise to the challenge.
Step
The Château de Villandry
Kilometer 223
To discover
The most beautiful “jardins à la française”
You are now in Villandry, at the confluence between the Loire and Cher rivers.
Visit the remarkable Renaissance château and its sumptuous gardens. After passing through various hands and losing some of its splendour, the château was bought in 1906 by the doctor Joachim Carvallo. He devoted his energy and fortune to restoring the Domaine de Villandry to its original beauty.
The interior of the château is astonishing, but the gardens are no less beautiful. Six gardens feature distinctive styles and architecture:the Kitchen Garden, the Ornamental Garden, the Water Garden, the Sun Garden, the Maze and the Herb Garden.
Did you know ?
What is hornbeam?
The hornbeam is an elegant tree, ideal for regular hedges, with its dry leaves in winter and the bright green of the first leaves in spring. "Our garden is composed of 1,500 linear metres of hornbeam hedges. They delimit the spaces, form cloisters of greenery, accompany visitors on the ramps along the walls, and create our famous maze: 400 metres long alone." Laurent Portuguez, Head Gardener, Villandry Gardens
Good deal
Tours Val de Loire Tourisme
Valid
from 11/07/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
L'Office de Tourisme de Villandry vous renseigne et vous donne accès à des tarifs réduits sur l’achat de billets châteaux, musées et parcs de loisirs.
Step
The Château dʼAmboise
Kilometer 252
To discover
The most “royal”
From its promontory, the Château d’Amboise offers a great panoramic view of the Loire Valley. From a historic and architectural perspective, the Royal Château of Amboise is a true testimony to the history of France.
Le Clos Lucé - The most “Leonardo da Vinci”
Francis I installed his friend Leonardo da Vinci at the Clos Lucé in the 16th century. An underground passage between the Château d’Amboise and the painter’s house enabled Francis I to join his friend discreetly.
A visit to the Clos Lucé promises an extraordinary journey through the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci. “Details make perfection, and perfection is not a detail” (Leonardo da Vinci).
Did you know ?
Guests of the Château d’Amboise
What do these personalities have in common: Clovis, Philip II, Jean de La Fontaine, Anne of Brittany, Francis I, Charles VIII and Leonardo da Vinci?
Answer: they all stayed at the Château Royal at some point in their lives.
Good deal
l'auberge de la treille
Profitez d'un verre de kir pétillant offert sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES.
Step
The Château de Chenonceau
Kilometer 282
To discover
The most “feminine”
You are now facing the Château de Chenonceau, also known as the “Ladies’ Château” with its arch spanning the Cher.
A true Renaissance masterpiece, you will be seduced by the perfectly furnished rooms and the splendid flower arrangements that adorn every room in the château.
Finish your visit with a tour in the flawlessly designed park and gardens. Admire the climbing roses in the Diane de Poitiers garden, and relax as you wander through the flowerbeds in the Catherine de' Medici garden.
Did you know ?
Ladies’ Château
Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici, Louise of Lorraine, Louise Dupin and finally Marguerite Pelouze have all lived in the château, turning it into an architectural masterpiece imbued with femininity.
Good deal
O'GB Restaurant
On presentation of your PASS’ETAPES card, receive a welcome drink or a kir.
O Gâteau Breton Bar à vin
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, receive a free glass of wine or kir.
LE KIOSQUE A PIZZA
Profitez d'une remise grâce au coupon de fidélité
Boucherie Doiseau
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 5% discount on the purchase of 3 x 470g jars of ‘Rillette de Tours’.
Chéry Box
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card and a minimum purchase of 10€: 4 free bhajis (vegetable fritters).
Miss Nana's
Bénéficiez d'une remise de 10% sur le deuxième article ( le moins cher des deux) sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES.
Office de Tourisme Autour de Chenonceaux
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
La Bélandre
CENTHE 37
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, benefit from a free tea or herbal tea for purchases of 25€ or more.
Château de Montpoupon
le concept
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, get a free glass of kir or soft drink.
l'auberge de la treille
Profitez d'un verre de kir pétillant offert sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES.
vins Beaujardin
Get a 5% discount on the purchase of '7 Lieues rosé' bottled wines (6 bottles minimum) on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
L'attablée des rochers
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 10% discount.
Valid
from 17/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ETAPES card, receive a welcome drink or a kir.
O Gâteau Breton Bar à vin
Postal address
: 1 place de la porte 37150 Chenonceaux
06 48 42 29 52
Valid
from 17/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, receive a free glass of wine or kir.
Valid
from 27/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Profitez d'une remise grâce au coupon de fidélité
Valid
from 06/07/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a 5% discount on the purchase of 3 x 470g jars of ‘Rillette de Tours’.
Valid
from 06/07/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card and a minimum purchase of 10€: 4 free bhajis (vegetable fritters).
Miss Nana's
Postal address
: 45 rue Gambetta 37150 Bléré
07 68 64 01 53
Valid
from 12/10/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Bénéficiez d'une remise de 10% sur le deuxième article ( le moins cher des deux) sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES.
Valid
from 01/05/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Valid
from 01/01/2021
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, benefit from preferential rates for the 50-minute cruise:
- Adult rate: 10 € instead of 11 €.
- Children's rate (from 4 to 12 years old): €6.50 instead of €7.50
Valid
from 24/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, benefit from a free tea or herbal tea for purchases of 25€ or more.
Valid
from 17/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
On presentation of your PASS’ÉTAPES card, get a discount on your entrance fee:
Adult: 9€ instead of 10€ - Child (aged 5 to 14): 4.50€ instead of 5€.
Valid
from 24/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
By presenting your PASS’ETAPES card, get a free glass of kir or soft drink.
Valid
from 24/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Profitez d'un verre de kir pétillant offert sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES.
Valid
from 24/06/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Get a 5% discount on the purchase of '7 Lieues rosé' bottled wines (6 bottles minimum) on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Step
The Château de Montpoupon
Kilometer 297
To discover
The most “family”
The castle of Montpoupon has been inhabited by the La Motte Saint-Pierre family since 1857.
Here are 5 good reasons to visit the castle:
1,200 years of history to discover
A family castle still inhabited
Activities all year round for a playful visit
Beautifully furnished rooms
A Hunting Museum to explore
Did you know ?
What is hunting with hounds?
Definition from the Larousse: “The art of hunting wild animals, such as stag, deer, boar, hare and fox with hounds.”
Good deal
Office de Tourisme Autour de Chenonceaux
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Office de Tourisme Autour de Chenonceaux
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Château de Montpoupon
Valid
from 01/05/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Valid
from 01/05/2022
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Get a free goodie or bag with the purchase of 2 Châteaux passes, on presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card.
Step
The Château de Loches
Kilometer 167
To discover
The most “millennium”
Built between 1013 and 1035, the Château de Loches boasts over 1,000 years of history. Surrounded by its imposing ramparts, it features a royal dwelling and a keep. The castle remains one of the best-preserved Romanesque architectural jewels of the era. Follow in the footsteps of Joan of Arc, who was imprisoned in the dungeon in 1430. The Histopad takes you back to the time of the kings for an extraordinary, immersive journey from the 11th to the 15th century. Both young and old can enjoy a treasure hunt.
Its 700m² medieval gardens are not to be missed. Experience a relaxing, dreamy atmosphere in a verdant setting
Did you know ?
Prisoners in the royal dwelling!
Transformed into a court and then used as a revolutionary prison in 1793, it was also a subprefecture and civil court until the 1920s.
Good deal
Aire CAMPING-CAR PARK
LES VERGERS DE LA MANSE
Valid
from 04/01/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
For stays of between 7 and 21 consecutive days, receive a 10% discount on the total amount of your stay (excluding tourist tax).
Offer valid only on booking by contacting our Customer Service on +33 1.83.64.69.21
Valid
from 22/03/2024
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Bénéficiez d'une remise de 4% sur nos produits (pommes et poires, jus de fruits, vinaigres, confitures, compotes, biscuits, etc) dans notre boutique à Sepmes et uniquement sur les produits vergers de la manse sur présentation de la carte PASS'ETAPES
Step
The Château de Montrésor
Kilometer 362
To discover
The most “Polish”
Proudly standing in the picturesque village that bears its name, the Château de Montrésor stands out for its elegance and finesse. Built on the banks of the Indrois river, this château is steeped in history and charm. With its medieval towers and carefully maintained gardens, it evokes the elegance of European noble residences. The Château de Montrésor was once owned by the Polish Count Xavier Branicki in the 18th century, giving it a touch of Slavic art and culture. Stroll through the peaceful gardens and let yourself be charmed into a world where 1,000 years of history meet beauty and humanity.
Did you know ?
The legend of the lizard
It is said that a young king followed a lizard powdered with gold and discovered a treasure under the hill, giving the site the name Montrésor.
In fact, the land belonged to the treasurer of Tours Cathedral and was nicknamed “Mont du trésorier” (The Treasurer's Mount), which became Montrésor.
Step
The Château de Valençay
Kilometer 337
To discover
The most “sustainable”
A visit to the Château de Valençay is an opportunity to discover the Prince de Talleyrand, an influential and active lord of the 19th century. The château bears witness to a man of taste: “It is not rest that I feel the need for, but freedom. To do what one wants, to think what one pleases, to follow one's heart instead of seeking one's way: that's the true rest I need, and I have found it here” (Prince of Talleyrand).
The park and gardens of the Château de Valençay extend over 53 hectares. Discover: the French garden, the Duchess’ garden, the Ornamental garden, the Grande Perspective, the Deer Park, the Princes’ Forest... The younger ones can explore the "Grand Labyrinthe de Napoléon", where a treasure hunt is organised in the 2,000m², two-metre-high maze.
Did you know ?
Who's hiding in the Princes’ Forest?
A bat cave listed as a Natura 2000 natural heritage site.
Good deal
Aire CAMPING-CAR PARK
La pantoufle du Berry
Bénéficiez d'une remise de 10% pour tout achat en boutique sur présentation de la carte PASS'ETAPES
RESTAURANT ETAPE A20
Sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES, un kir de bienvenue pour un repas du jour vous est offert.
Valid
from 04/01/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
For stays of between 7 and 21 consecutive days, receive a 10% discount on the total amount of your stay (excluding tourist tax).
Offer valid only on booking by contacting our Customer Service on +33 1.83.64.69.21
Valid
from 05/07/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Bénéficiez d'une remise de 10% pour tout achat en boutique sur présentation de la carte PASS'ETAPES
RESTAURANT ETAPE A20
Postal address
: 10 Place de la République 36150 Vatan
02 54 21 80 10
Valid
from 17/04/2024
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
Sur présentation de votre carte PASS'ETAPES, un kir de bienvenue pour un repas du jour vous est offert.
Step
The Château de Montrichard
Kilometer 272
To discover
The most “fortified castle”
This ruined fortified castle lies right in the heart of Montrichard. Its 12th-century keep dominates the Cher valley and now houses two museums: the Archaeology Museum and the Ethnology Museum.
From the Middle Ages to modern times! Visiting these museums is quite surprising: a virtual visit is now possible right inside the fortress.
Did you know ?
How was the Château de Montrichard destroyed?
The Château de Montrichard was partly destroyed by king Philip Augustus himself! The aim was to retake the town at a time when the Anjou region was an English possession.
Good deal
Maison du Tourisme de Montrichard
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, you will be offered a Sud Val de Loire welcome kit.
Step
The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire
Kilometer 377
To discover
The most “flowery”
The fortress of Chaumont-sur-Loire was built around the year 1000 to guard the border between the county of Blois and the county of Anjou.
After its destruction in 1465, the castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style that can be admired today.
The English-style garden
The castle’s park was designed by Henri Duchêne, a landscape gardener inspired by the English-style gardens at the end of the 19th century. Chaumont-sur-Loire is now renowned for the International Garden Festival held every year in the botanical park.
The Camping de mon Village of Monthou-sur-Cher is located 18 kilometres from Chaumont-sur-Loire.
Did you know ?
The Black Queen
This was the nickname given to Catherine de’ Medici, who occupied the château from 1550 to 1560, as she loved to surround herself with magicians and astrologers.
Good deal
Un poil plus court
By presenting your PASS'ETAPES card, benefit from a 5% discount on a grooming service
Station Bee'S Chaumont sur Loire
Bénéficiez de 10% de remise pour toute location d'une journée et plus.
Un poil plus court
Postal address
: 37 Grande rue 41150 Veuzain sur loire
07 77 67 17 90
Valid
from 17/03/2023
to 31/12/2024
Reserved for customers
Offer:
By presenting your PASS'ETAPES card, benefit from a 5% discount on a grooming service
Step
The Château de Cheverny
Kilometer 397
To discover
The most “beautiful interior”
Owned by the same family for six centuries, the Château de Cheverny has not undergone a single transformation since it was built in the 17th century. Cheverny is probably the most sumptuously furnished and richly decorated Château of the Loire Valley to be discovered.
To visit the château is to discover what the true French classical style is all about.
The Château de Blois - The most “architectural”
Gothic, Renaissance, Classical - Blois boasts a wide range of architectural styles.
Charles of Orléans, Louis XII, Anne of Brittany, Francis I, Catherine de’ Medici, Henry III, Louis XII, Marie de’ Medici… These are just some of the great royal figures who have stayed at the Royal Château of Blois and influenced its history.
Did you know ?
Marlinspike Hall
The Château de Cheverny inspired Hergé, author of "The Adventures of Tintin", to create the legendary Marlinspike Hall.
A permanent exhibition devoted to the work of the famous comic strip artist can be seen at Cheverny.
Step
The Château de Chambord
Kilometer 445
To discover
The most “emblematic”
A visit to the Château de Chambord is the perfect way to round off this cultural journey!
Built in the 16th century by Francis I, Chambord impresses with its style and grandeur. The young king wanted a hunting lodge that would reflect the power of his reign, and it certainly did! Designed as a medieval fortress with decorative elements in the Italian Renaissance style, this architectural masterpiece embodies the transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The grounds of the château are also breathtaking. It covers more than 5,000 hectares, making it the largest walled and enclosed forest park in Europe!
Did you know ?
The salamander
The salamander was Francis I's emblem, and appears more than 300 times on the sculpted vaults and walls!
Good deal
Château de Meung-sur-Loire
On presentation of your PASS'ETAPES card, you will be offered a drink during the visit of the castle.
