The most famous châteaux are:
Blois:
During more than 4 centuries, a succession of Kings and Queens of France made
the château of Blois their royal residence. One of the great masterpieces
of French architecture and famous for its Francois 1st. staircase tower. (Open
all year).
Azay-le-Rideau:
This château, built on an island in the middle of the river Indre, is
one of the most beautiful Renaissance successes. A perfect combination of
traditional elements and Italicism. (Open all year).
Chenonceau:
The château sits astride the river. The most gracious and feminine of
the Châteaux, with its famous gardens, created by Diane de Poitiers
and Catherine de Médicis. (Open mid March- September).
Ussé:
A ‘fairytale’ castle which overlooks the river Indre and inspired
Charles Perrault as the setting for his story the Sleeping Beauty. (Open Easter-
mid November).
Villandry:
One of the great Renaissance châteaux, built on the banks of the Loire.
Famous for the harmony of its architecture and its splendid terraces of gardens,
unique in Europe. (Open mid February – mid November).
Valençay:
A firm favourite with children. Built in the 16th C. the château is
completely furnished. The park is impressive, with deer, llamas and peacocks
roaming free. It is great for seasonal entertainment, hosted by actors dressed
in authentic costume of the era. (Open all year).
Amboise:
Directly overlooking the Loire and the town, the château is a magnificent
example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. It houses an exceptional collection
of furniture. (Open all year). It was at Amboise that Leonardo da Vinci lived
out his last years. The preliminary models to many of his inventions can be
seen in the Manor of Clos-Lucé.
Loches:
The logis royal dominates the Northern point of the medieval town of Loches.
Many important scenes in French history have taken place here. The keep is
one of the most impressive of the Norman period. The Gate House, Louis XI
tower, Cardinal Balue’s dungeon and the torture chamber all give an
experience of the medieval epoch. (Open all year).