Do you dream of a visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley that combines discovery, comfort and the art of living? What if your next stay in the Valley of the Kings began here, in the heart of Touraine, in a place steeped in history? Nestled between Tours and Saumur, our hotel in the Loire Valley offers a privileged base from which to explore Renaissance gems and medieval World Heritage fortresses. Chambord, Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, Villandry…
Why are the châteaux of the Loire Valley still so attractive?
Did you know that the Loire Valley boasts the highest density of châteaux in the world? More than 300 buildings, nestled along a World Heritage river, bear witness to a past when the kings of France made and unmade history. Each château plunges you into a different era, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, between medieval fortresses, royal residences and remarkable gardens.
Which châteaux to visit, how many days to plan, where to take a break between two visits? Here you’ll find all the information you need to plan your itinerary, whether for a weekend or a longer stay in the Loire Valley… And to make the experience even more memorable, a hotel in the Loire Valley welcomes you to the heart of the châteaux, where you’ll find elegance, calm and character.
A UNESCO World Heritage valley
Nicknamed the Valley of Kings, the Loire River winds its majestic course over 280 kilometers, from Sully-sur-Loire to Chalonnes, crossing four départements and centuries of history. More than 300 castles, churches, abbeys, fortified towns and gardens, designed by the greatest architects of the reigns of François I and Henri IV, stand on its banks.
This unique cultural landscape, where the French art of living is inscribed in stone and vegetation, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Here, geography truly marries history: every meander, every promontory shelters a piece of the national story, from fortified castles to Renaissance royal residences.
A condensed history of France, from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment
Here, each château tells the story of a chapter inFrench history. The shadows of François I, Catherine de Médicis and Leonardo da Vinci, who lived just a stone’s throw from Le Clos Lucé, can be seen here. From medieval fortresses to Renaissance dwellings, the châteaux of the Loire bear witness to an era when power was built as much in stone as in art. Amboise, Chenonceau, Chambord: these names resonate as symbols of elegance, architectural innovation and enlightened patronage.
A lively region of remarkable gardens, exhibitions and festivals
Contrary to popular belief, the châteaux of the Loire Valley live with the times. Each season brings its own events: night-time shows at Blois, contemporary exhibitions at Chaumont-sur-Loire, or the International Garden Festival. The gardens of Château de Villandry, masterpieces of plant geometry, reinvent themselves month by month. The Loire Valley is also an open-air cultural scene, where heritage rhymes with creativity.
Which châteaux to visit in the Loire Valley?
It‘s hard to imagine a visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley without stopping to admire the familiar silhouettes of Chambord, Chenonceau or Villandry. These emblematic monuments form the backdrop to a richly varied itinerary of architectural splendor, courtly tales and landscapes sculpted by time. But beyond these great names, the Loire Valley abounds in lesser-known, sometimes more intimate châteaux that are just as worthy of a detour. Whether you prefer the boldness of a Renaissance château, the mystery of a medieval fortress or the charm of a French garden, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. And if you’re looking for a smooth link between all these sites, a hotel in Touraine, both elegant and centrally located, can transform this heritage adventure into a veritable art of living.
Must-sees on the royal estuary: Chambord, Blois, Cheverny
Three emblematic Loire châteaux, not to be missed on any well-thought-out Loire châteaux tour.
It’s impossible to talk about the châteaux of the Loire Valley without mentioning Chambord, a monumental Renaissance masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the heart of a 5,500-hectare forest park – the largest enclosed park in Europe – it is as fascinating for its double-revolution staircase as for its sheer size.
Nearby, the four wings of the Château Royal de Blois tell the story of four centuries of royal architecture and power plays. Every evening, a sound and light show immerses the facades in a spellbinding historical fresco.
A few kilometers away, Cheverny offers sumptuously furnished interiors and themed gardens. Bonus for comic book fans: Hergé drew his inspiration for Moulinsart here. A permanent exhibition is dedicated to him.
The elegants of Touraine: Chenonceau, Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau
In Touraine, stones speak with grace. Built on a human scale, these châteaux embody French elegance.
Chenonceau, nicknamed the Château des Dames, gracefully spans the Cher River. Admire its flower-filled rooms, the gardens of Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers, and even its on-site gourmet cuisine.
In Amboise, the former residence of Charles VIII offers spectacular views over the Loire, and houses the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert. The Château d’Amboise was the first royal residence of the French Renaissance.
Not far away, the Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, set on an island in the heart of the Indre river, is a jewel of Renaissance harmony, caught in the changing reflections of its water mirror. This Loire château is considered one of the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture.
Stay in a hotel-château in the Loire Valleyclose to these emotionally-charged sites, so you can enjoy each stage without driving too many kilometers.
Hidden treasures in the west: Chinon, Ussé, Le Rivau, Loches, Montsoreau
Lesser-known but just as striking, these châteaux in the west of the Loire Valley will take you to another facet of the Loire Valley. Another way to experience the Loire castles, off the beaten track.
In Chinon, the medieval fortress overlooks the Vienne river and the vineyards of the Loire wine route. It was here that Joan of Arc met Charles VII – an episode brought to life through immersive scenography.
Just a few kilometers away, Le Rivau bewilders and seduces. This superbly restored medieval château combines military architecture, Renaissance furniture and contemporary art collections. Discover 15 gardens inspired by fairy tales and legends. Encounter sculpted unicorns, unusual works of art and rare botanical varieties.
Further south, Loches offers a glimpse into the world of the Valois. Its 11th-century Romanesque keep is impressive, as are the royal dwelling and the medieval town surrounded by ramparts.
With its peppered roofs, slender turrets and white tufa facades, the Château d’Ussé looks like something out of a fairy tale. And it’s no doubt what inspired Charles Perrault to write Sleeping Beauty.
Finally, Montsoreau, perched on the banks of the Loire, bridges the gap between heritage and modernity. Built flush with the water, with its tufa facades facing the Loire and its architecture blending Gothic elegance and Renaissance influences, it houses a museum of contemporary art.
How do you plan your Loire Valley châteaux tour?
Visiting the châteaux of the Loire Valley can quickly become a headache… because there are so many to choose from. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, it’s best to structure your itinerary according to the time you have available. A weekend is enough to visit some of the jewels between Tours and Amboise; in five days, you can cross the Loire Valley between medieval fortresses, Renaissance châteaux and remarkable gardens. And for the more curious, a full week opens the doors to a veritable open-air museum.
By car or by bike, thanks in particular to the Loire à Vélo, each to his or her own rhythm. And to make these stopovers as easy as possible, there’s nothing like a hotel close to the châteaux de la Loire, central and elegant, for a comfortable journey from one site to the next. Itineraries, châteaux to visit, events not to be missed: follow our suggestions to experience the Valley of the Kings to your heart’s content.
Visit the Loire castles in 2 days: a weekend between Tours and Amboise
In two days, it’s possible to capture the essence of the Loire Valley, by concentrating your visits around Tours andAmboise, less than 30 minutes apart.
Start with Chenonceau, one of the Loire Valley’s most beautiful châteaux, famous for its gallery spanning the Cher and its Renaissance gardens designed by two powerful women.
The Château Royal d’Amboise, former residence of Charles VIII and François I, offers a unique view of the Loire Valley.
Finish the day with a visit to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci‘s home, where the inventor lived out his final years.
The next day, off to Villandryfamous for its French gardens, veritable works of plant art. Weather permitting, extend your sense of wonder with a stroll through the old town of Tours or a stopover in the vineyards of Montlouis.
Staying in a 4-star hotel in Indre-et-Loire gives you easy access to these not-to-be-missed chateaux, without having to travel too far. A practical solution for optimizing your time and making the most of every visit.
A 5-day Loire castles tour, combining nature, art and history
With five days to spare, you can alternate between great châteaux, lesser-known treasures and gourmet stops.
From your hotel in Touraine, explore the classics: Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Azay-le-Rideau, as well as more intimate sites such as Le Rivau and Montsoreau.
Add a morning at Villandry for its remarkable gardens, a stopover at Chinon for its medieval fortress and why not, a tasting in the vineyards of Bourgueil.
The pace is fluid, the distances reasonable, and each day offers a different atmosphere: Renaissance, medieval, bucolic or artistic. The Loire à Vélo format allows you to combine cultural visits, strolls along the Loire à Vélo and gourmet breaks in markets or village inns.
A word of advice: vary the types of visits (interiors, exteriors, scenographies) to maintain a pleasant dynamic throughout the tour.
7 days on the royal road: complete itinerary from east to west
A week’s visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley is a real voyage of initiation, combining history, landscapes and the art of living. Here’s an itinerary structured day by day, so you can enjoy the richness of the Loire Valley without running.
- Day 1 – Chambord & Blois
Start at the imposing Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of the French Renaissance, then continue on to Blois, with its monumental staircase and four wings illustrating the evolution ofroyal architecture. - Day 2 – Cheverny & Chaumont-sur-Loire
Visit Cheverny, famous for its unspoilt interiors and gardens, then head to Chaumont, famous for its International Garden Festival and its sweeping views over the Loire. - Day 3 – Chenonceau & Amboise
Direction Chenonceauthe Château des Dames, with its galleries overlooking the Cher River. In the afternoon, explore the royal château of Amboise, followed by Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci. - Day 4 – Azay-le-Rideau & Villandry
Make way for the gentleness of Touraine with Azay-le-Rideauand Villandry, renowned for its French gardens of rare perfection. - Day 5 – Ussé & Le Rivau
Head west with Usséthe fairytale castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty, and Le Rivau, with its dreamlike world, remarkable gardens and art collection. - Day 6 – Chinon & Loches
Morning in Chinon, with its medieval fortress, vineyards and historic center. In the afternoon, off to Loches, with its keep, royal dwelling and fortified upper town. - Day 7 – Montsoreau & the banks of the Loire
Finish at Montsoreau, the only Loire château built into the riverbed, now dedicated tocontemporary art, then enjoy a final stroll along the banks of the Loire, between troglodyte villages and vineyards.
Staying in a hotel in the Loire Valley, between Tours and Saumur, means you can easily explore the region without changing accommodation at each stopover.
Lodging to visit the châteaux of the Loire Valley in total freedom
Where to sleep between stages? Staying in a hotel in the Loire Valley, between Tours and Saumur, means you can easily explore the region without changing accommodation at each stopover. If you’re looking for an elegant, quiet and conveniently located base for your visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley, the Château de Rochecotte offers a rare interlude between Touraine and Anjou. Nestled between Tours and Saumur, in the heart of a 25-hectare park planted with trees, discover a beautiful address offering privileged access to the region’s finest châteaux. Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Chinon, Ussé, Le Rivau or Montsoreau are less than 30 minutes away.
Rochecotte, a historic château hotel in the heart of the Loire Valley
The former home of the Duchesse de Dino and the Prince de Talleyrand, this address combines the charm of an 18th-century château with the warm welcome of a 4-star establishment in the Loire Valley. You’ll be staying in a former aristocratic residence where every detail has been designed to combine comfort and character.
Here, you can do more than just pass through: you can stop, savor and radiate at your own pace towards the most beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family or friends, Rochecotte welcomes you as a starting point… and an anchoring point.
More than just a place to stay, it’s a refined experience: luxury accommodationgourmet restaurant, heated swimming pool, massages and wellness treatments, attentive service: everything invites you to take a break, recharge your batteries and discover the Loire castles in a different way.
More than just a place to stay, a refined experience
The Château de Rochecotte, a luxury hotel in the Loire Valley, offers 37 rooms and suites, all designed to combine modern comfort with classic charm. Top-of-the-range bedding, elegant bathrooms, Penhaligon’s welcome products, lounge area, air conditioning, minibar, high-speed Wi-Fi… Every detail contributes to a hushed atmosphere, ideal for resting after a day on the châteaux route.
In terms of services, everything invites you to relax and enjoy the art of living.
Heated outdoor pool, wellness treatments and massages on request, breakfast on the terrace or in the historic salons, gourmet restaurant, bar, concierge service… The Château team cultivates a discreet but attentive sense of hospitality. You’re free to set your own pace, between heritage explorations and gentle interludes.
Seasonal visits to the châteaux of the Loire Valley: our insider tips
Spring in bloom, lively summer, golden autumn or enchanting Christmas: each season brings a different flavour to a visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley. Here are a few guidelines to help you choose the right time – according to your desires, your rhythm and your sensibility.
Spring and autumn: the best light for photos and gardens in bloom
For many, these are the two most beautiful seasons in which to visit the châteaux of the Loire Valley. The remarkable gardens explode with color in spring, at Villandry and Le Rivau, and the low autumn lights sublimate the tufa facades. Fewer people, mild temperatures, a peaceful atmosphere: the ideal time to take full advantage of both indoors and outdoors.
Summer with the family: events, shows and extended opening hours
In July and August, the great chateaux of the Loire are redoubling their activities: theatrical tours, nocturnes, children’s trails, treasure hunts and open-air shows. A great way to capture the attention of younger visitors while learning aboutFrench history. Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Châteaux de la Loire at Christmas: magic, fir trees and illuminations
For several years now, the châteaux of the Loire Valley have been lighting up for the festive season. In Chenonceau, Azay-le-Rideau, Amboise and Chinon, enchanting decorations fill the ceremonial rooms. Majestic fir trees, blooming fireplaces, the scent of spices: another way to discover heritage, between tradition and enchantment.
Frequently asked questions about visiting the Loire castles
Tickets, length of visit, children, mobility… Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore new châteaux, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you plan a stress-free visit to the châteaux of the Loire Valley.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially in high season (May to September) and during school vacations. Castles such as Chenonceau, Chambord and Amboise quickly sell out. Most offer online ticketing, with time slots to be selected to ensure a smooth visit.
Which castles are suitable for children?
A number of sites have thought of their young visitors: fun trails at Le Clos Lucé, storytelling at Ussé, workshops at Le Rivau, enigma games at Cheverny… Some even offer dedicated audio guides or treasure hunts in the gardens. And don’t forget to take an ice-cream or game break between visits.
Can you visit the castles by bike or train?
Yes. Thanks to La Loire à Vélo, many of the Loire châteaux are accessible via signposted cycle routes. The train is also a practical option from Tours, Blois or Saumur. Remember to check the exact distances between stations and sites to avoid unpleasant surprises.
How much time should you allow for each visit?
Allow an average of 1h30 to 2h per château. For larger châteaux such as Chambord or Chinon, allow 3 hours including the gardens. Some sites also offer self-guided tours, while others impose specific times or directions. If you’re making several visits in a day, limit yourself to just two châteaux to save on travel time… and rest.
The hotelin a few words…
- An exceptional site overlooking the Loire Valley, close to the Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil vineyards.
- A place full of history, a chapel built in memory of Prince Talleyrand.
- This is a luxury hotel with a human touch, offering personalized and attentive service.
- 37 rooms, suites and apartments with refined interiors (wifi, hospitality trays, safe, iron, air conditioning, bathrobes, etc.).
- Outdoor heated pool open in summer.
- A 25-hectare park with walking streets and French gardens.
- An Italian terrace overlooking the valley and French gardens.
- A gastronomic restaurant with both classic and modern decor.
- Bikes for hire on site.
- There are a number of salons available for hosting professional and private events.
- Quality Tourism Certification.
- Reception PRM (persons with reduced mobility).
