Which castles to visit in loire valley

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Did you enjoy this article? Then sign up for our newsletter Did you enjoy this article? The same team that curates our content designs your perfect trip. Explore more. Things to do in le Marais One of the most convenient and dynamic districts of central Paris must be Le Marais, which provides a perfect mixture of local and foreign.

Open October-March 10 a. With its gorgeous moat and Italian Renaissance interior, the chateau is known especially for the rare 16th and 17th century Flemish tapestries that depict life in Renaissance Europe. But don't go just for the wall hangings. Open April-September a. Gascony poses a wine challenge to Bordeaux. Getting there. All the castles are two to three hours from Paris by car along the A10 highway and can be accessed by train by taking the TGV to Tours, then changing to a regional line or one of the many tourist buses.

English and French are spoken in all locations and audio guides and brochures are available in several languages. Allow around two hours for each visit. For a full list of Loire Valley castles and information on directions and accommodations, see the official English language online directory. In , it was acquired by the French state, and a more recent refurbishment has returned the building and its lavish apartments to their former glory.

Few French gardens can rival those of Villandry. Spread over nine hectares 22 acres and four terraces, the landscapes were restored in the early 20th century by Spanish doctor and scientist Joachim Carvallo, the great-grandfather of the current owner. High above the Indre River, the fortress was built in and, when it was no longer needed for defense, the north wing was torn down to open up a greater view.

Visitors to the privately owned castle can tour a selection of sumptuous rooms including the dining room, the dungeon, the Renaissance chapel, and the opulent royal apartments, some featuring ancient tapestries and displays about its fictional belle. Arts and Culture. Local Experiences. Buy tickets online. This Loire Valley castle is privately owned and still occupied by the family. They make sparkling wine from the vineyard on the grounds. Inside, the castle has kept much of its 18th century furniture.

The medieval era stronghold was built by Theobald I in It features a fortress and a vast collection of medieval-age weapons and other artifacts. Its interior and gardens do not, however, compare to many of the other castles.

It was built in the 1oth century to protect against Norman attacks. Enjoy great views of the river and Saumur town from the balconies of the chateau. Try walking up the castle from the riverside to savour its breathtaking exterior designs and courtyard. Inside, there are 15 richly furnished rooms.

Some of the history of the castle is displayed by wax figures which have been described as rather odd. Visit this castle if : You have kids that would enjoy the drawbridge and the tree house. King Henry II gave the castle to his mistress, who was driven out when the queen become regent. Visit this castle for: Historical intrigue and a great way to understand the role of women in the Renaissance.

Or fulfill your bucket list with this hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley departs from Chenonceau. Charles VIII turned the castle into a luxurious palace. The interior is sparsely furnished but not without some soap operatic intrigue. Leonardo da Vinci was involved in the renovation of the palace. You can visit his tomb in St. This is where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last three years He made some of his most groundbreaking inventions here.

The tranquil grounds are stunning. You can almost imagine da Vinci drawing inspiration from the serene gardens and ponds. The King and his court stayed here when they were passing through town or avoiding their enemies in Paris. This Loire Valley castle is unique for its multiple towers and stained glass windows.

It also houses the largest cache of medieval armour in France.