Have you always wished you could visit the castles of the Loire valley and finally have a couple of days to do so? My itinerary will enable you to see as many castles as possible without rushing and guarantees you a unique experience with time to immerse yourself in the ambiance of each castle.
Here is the itinerary on the map:
Day 1: Chambord and Blois
Morning: Live a Fairy Tale
Your trip starts in the Château de Chambord, which is 55 minutes away from Orléans.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice that this castle is worthy of a place in the greatest fairy tales. In fact, the castle in the movie Beauty and the Beast was inspired by Chambord, so Disney fans will be especially delighted!
After visiting the beautiful rooms inside the castle, you can stroll around the outside. The gardens, stables, and vineyards are well worth the time it takes to see them.
In the garden, you’ll have the opportunity to do some shopping. You’ll find fruits and vegetables for sale, and you can even take home a tree from the orchard.
If you are interested, you can take a few lessons in permaculture from a professional. You’ll learn to create ecosystems in your own space that respect biodiversity.
While passing through the vineyard, be sure to take home a vine stock. You’ll also be offered wine bottles, or you can buy your own.
To complete your visit, go to the stables for a 45-minute horses and raptors show at 11:45 am.
Afternoon: Art and Fun
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After a good meal and a 20 minute drive, you’ll find yourself at the Château Royal de Blois. This castle was listed as a historical monument in 1845.
With its four wings, the castle reflects the evolution of French architecture from the 12th to the 17th century.
Inside the castle, you’ll find the Musée des Beaux-Arts. More than 35,000 works from all over the world are exhibited, allowing you to travel the world without leaving the museum.
If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, try the giant escape game that allows you to delve deeper into the universe of Marie de Médicis.
You can also discover the closed areas of the castle by taking a guided tour. If you’re a history buff, be sure to attend the exhibition dedicated to the intimacy of the kings and queens who lived in the castle.
Make sure you stay until the evening for the 45-minute sound and light show (link in French) that turns the four walls of the castle into a stunning display of colors and music.
Day 2: Chaumont-sur-Loire and Clos Lucé
Morning: Art and Gardens
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The domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire includes the castle, a historical park, and stables.
The castle is a former fortress whose purpose was to watch the frontier between Blois and Anjou. Inside, you can wander through the apartments that are furnished with historically accurate furniture and decorations.
You’ll be able to see the De Ruggieri room right along with the Catherine de Médicis room. You can also visit the king’s room, the guard room, and the council room.
After exploring the castle, enter the park made of tree thickets and bushes. Here you’ll find a water tower, a picturesque bridge, and a dog cemetery created by the Princesse de Broglie.
Next, go to the stables to admire the three horse-drawn carriages that are exhibited. At the time they were built, the stables were considered the most luxurious ones in Europe. The architecture of the building is also worth noting.
An art season also takes place every year in the domain. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to view numerous works of art by different artists.
The most notable event at the castle, however, is the International Garden Festival. There are not only flowers and plants fit for any king, but also structures. This unique event truly enlivens the gardens with artistic creations.
Afternoon: Leonardo Da Vinci’s Art
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Did you know that Leonardo Da Vinci lived in France? It’s true – he spent the last three years of his life in the Château du Clos Lucé.
Bought by Charles VII as a summer residence, the domain was intended to be part of the Royal Castle of Amboise. Then, in 1516, François I allowed the famous Italian artist to make it his home.
Inside the castle, an exhibition tells visitors all about the life of Leonardo Da Vinci. You can also view a few of his paintings.
If you head towards the park, you’ll be able to see some of his inventions as well.
Numerous temporary exhibitions are dedicated to Leonardo Da Vinci, and various events take place in the castle grounds throughout the year.
At nightfall, go outside the castle to attend a play or take a nighttime stroll. Maybe you’ll have the opportunity to see one of William Shakespeare’s works performed (unless you join a party like the ones Da Vinci used to throw for François I!).
The European Renaissance Music Festival also takes place in the domain. During this festival, your soul will be soothed by the sound of tuneful melodies that will take you back to Da Vinci’s time.
Day 3: Brézé and Rivau
Morning: Underground Networks
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The main attraction at the Château de Brézé is the underground fortress. It is very uncommon to find such a huge underground structure in a domain!
Invisible from the outside, the network covers over four kilometers. Most visitors are truly surprised to hear about what the castle holds within.
The fortress is open to the public: feel free to visit it on your own or with a guide. You can enter several rooms, including the accommodations of the Seigneurs de Brézé, the galleries, and the dry moats.
On the surface, you can admire the castle’s neo-gothic decorations as well as its stables.
If you want to visit the Renaissance wing, you’ll have to be accompanied by a guide. There you’ll see the great salon, the billiards room, the weapons room, and many others. You also have the opportunity to eat lunch or dinner in the domain.
While strolling outside, don’t forget to visit the castle’s small farm. It is home to three Vietnamese pigs, two dwarf goats, a billy goat, and four sheep. You might also come across a giant butterfly rabbit if you are not visiting in the winter.
Several seasonal events also take place in the domain each year, including Halloween and Easter celebrations and a Christmas market.
Afternoon: History and Magic
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No Loire Valley trip would be complete without visiting one of its oldest castles, the Château du Rivau.
This major historical site was once Charles VII’s residence. Having survived through the ages, many of the castle’s parts were built in different centuries. The dungeon dates back to the Middle Ages, while the royal stables were built during the Renaissance.
While visiting the stables, be sure to take in at least one of the two audiovisual shows. Each lasts only 15 minutes and teaches you interesting historical facts. You will learn about 16th century equestrian art during one show, and the other one will tell you the story of the stable.
In my opinion, the remarkable gardens are the most impressive part of the domain. There are 15 of them, and each is a must-see!
Every garden has something special to offer, and each evolves as the seasons change. You are guaranteed a unique experience each time you visit!
The gardens are also scattered with works of art. As you wander, you might come across a giant boot, a tiny carousel, a sake cup, or one of many other works.
To make the magic last a little longer, book a room in the castle (which happens to be a hotel as well). This will allow you to live a true fairy tale until the very end of your trip!
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
