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History of the Castles of the Loire Valley and its surroundings

The term "Castles of the Loire" refers to a collection of castles located along the Loire Valley in central France, specifically within the regions of Loiret, Loir-et-Cher, Indre-et-Loire, and Maine-et-Loire. Castles have been present in this area since the medieval period. However, it was under the reign of Francis I that the region underwent significant transformations, becoming a hub for the exchange of goods. The Loire River supported the "Renaissance" ambitions of the French royal authorities. Some prominent castles that represent these ambitions include Amboise, Angers, Azay-le-Rideau, Blois, Chambord, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Chenonceau, Langeais, Saumur, Sully-sur-Loire, Villandry, and Loches.

These monuments stand testament to the power and influence of the sovereigns who resided here during their reign. Consequently, many of the Loire castles arose from territorial conflicts during the eleventh century. However, the majority of these structures were erected during the Renaissance. The term 'Château de Loire' is used in tourism to describe this region, which is adorned with dozens of castles situated among vineyards. The banks of the Loire have been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, with communities settling along the Loire and its many tributaries. Over the course of 6,000 years, hunter-gatherers abandoned their nomadic lifestyle and began to establish permanent settlements, leading to the territorial organization of the Gallic tribes.

The locations of all significant cities were determined before the Roman occupation. When Julius Caesar arrived in this region, he encountered minimal resistance. Cities like Orleans, Tours, and Angers constructed forums, theaters, and thermal baths. The Gallo-Roman period saw significant developments in production and trade, primarily due to the creation of canals, which increased the region's importance. The advent of the railway in the 19th century dramatically altered the Loire landscape, rendering river navigation obsolete and halting the activities of the Loire ports. In the year 2000, the Loire Valley became France's largest UNESCO World Heritage site in terms of living cultural landscapes.

What can we visit around the Châteaux de la Vallée de la Loire ?

Amboise Castle

The Royal Castle of Amboise is the birthplace of King Charles VIII, who was born there in 1470. Amboise later became his primary residence. Francis I invited the renowned inventor Leonardo da Vinci to stay at the castle before the latter settled at the Château du Clos-Lucé. Visitors to the castle can explore the towers of the medieval fortress situated beneath the Renaissance Royal Quarters, although this tour is recommended only for those in good physical condition and aged 7 years or older.

Chambord Castle

As the largest of the Loire castles, Chambord Castle, with its 365 chimneys, 440 rooms, and 128-meter façade, is an artistic marvel that bears witness to the architectural Renaissance in France. Nestled in the heart of a 5,500-hectare park, it once served as the hunting rendezvous point for the counts of Blois. Chambord is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its status as a living cultural landscape.

Blois Castle

Home to a gallery of portraits, Blois Castle provides a summary of European history spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, covering the reigns of kings from Philip VI to Louis XIII. A visit to this castle offers a comprehensive insight into the stories of European and French royalty. Blois is also the venue for The Rendezvous of History, an annual event that hosts numerous debates and conferences in the heart of the city.

Are the hotels around the Castles of the Loire Valley convenient and charming ?

B&B Hotel Blois

The B&B Hotel Blois offers very competitive rates compared to other establishments in the Val-de-Loire. Its rooms with bunk beds cater perfectly to groups of tourists. Located 8 km from Blois Castle, 5 km from Saint-Louis Cathedral, and the Museum of Fine Arts, this hotel features bright, minimalist rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and satellite channels. Pets are welcome and parking is free.

Hotel Ibis Budget Amboise

For over a decade, this hotel has consistently received top reviews on travel forums. This 2-star hotel, located 2 km from the Château du Clos Lucé and 14 km from Chenonceau Castle, dates back to the 16th century. The affordably priced rooms, decorated in a casual style, can accommodate up to 3 people. All rooms include bunk beds, a workspace, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel provides accessibility for people with limited mobility, allows pets, and is child-friendly.

Hotel Chaptal

Hotel Chaptal is a two-star hotel offering welcoming rooms among the traditional buildings in the village center. Situated a mere 5 minutes from Amboise Castle and a 6-minute walk from the Loire, the hotel's unique room décor and color schemes make it a delightful discovery. The rooms come equipped with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi access. A buffet breakfast is available for an additional daily fee.

What to discover in the Château de Villandry ?

Château de Villandry is a magnificent castle that seamlessly blends architecture and gardens. Restored at the beginning of the 20th century by Joachim Carvallo, it represents the culmination of First French Renaissance design. The castle boasts exceptional gardens that harmonize with the building's architecture. Both the castle and its gardens have been recognized as historic monuments since September 4, 1927. The austere elegance of its architecture establishes this area as one of the gems of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites.

The Charm of Château de Villandry's Gardens

The château's outstanding French Renaissance gardens were originally designed in an Italian style. Owing to its French gardens, the château is fondly known as the "Garden of France." Visitors can spend hours strolling through the paths of the six distinct gardens spread over four terraces at the Jardins de Villandry. These include the ornamental vegetable garden with its nine squares featuring various patterns, the water garden, the sun garden that encourages relaxation and daydreaming, the canal-separated gardens, the herb garden with its array of medicinal, aromatic, and condiment plants, and the labyrinth garden symbolizing the spiritual journey from man to God.

Château de Villandry, an Exceptional Monument

Enhanced by its remarkable gardens, the castle's architecture is equally delightful. Visitors can explore around fifteen meticulously furnished and decorated rooms. From the dining room, kitchens, living room to the bedrooms, every detail of the décor, curated by Joachim Carvallo, is sure to impress. Carvallo, an art lover, purchased the castle to showcase an extraordinary collection of 17th-century Spanish paintings.

Château de Chenonceau: what to see ?

Château de Chenonceau is one of the greatest treasures of the Loire. This beautiful historic monument has preserved its authenticity and stature over time and is a must-visit when in the region.

A Historical Visit

A tour of Château de Chenonceau is primarily historical. Visitors can explore the different rooms of the building, admire the artworks, and observe the various historic decorations. Guides are on hand to explain the significance and history of the various items, providing an excellent opportunity to broaden your general knowledge.

The Castle Gardens

When visiting this site, don't miss out on a stroll through the Renaissance-style gardens. Meticulously maintained, they are absolutely beautiful and offer a complete change of scenery. Within these 12,000 m² of flowerbeds, there is ample space to enjoy the fresh air and unwind.

Themed Activities

Château de Chenonceau also provides a busy schedule of events and activities. Throughout the year, there are various themed presentations. For instance, wine enthusiasts can enjoy an oenological walk, art exhibitions are regularly hosted, and there are even courses on creating flower bouquets. However, please note that bookings are necessary to experience Château de Chenonceau and all these activities.

How to get from Loire Valley to Orly Aiport by private shuttle ?

If you are planning a trip from Orly Airport to the Châteaux de la Loire, please note that the airport is 262 kilometers away from the castles. The most efficient route involves taking the D305, transitioning onto the A28, and then joining the A10 and A11. This route requires a brief diversion via the Francilienne before reaching Orly.

Upon departing from Orly Airport, you will find that the journey to the Châteaux de la Loire is a trip covering a distance of 262 kilometers. Begin your travel on the D305, proceed onto the A28 highway, and subsequently transition onto the A10 and A11 highways. This particular travel route will necessitate a slight detour through the Francilienne area before your eventual arrival at Orly.

Transfer Castle in Loire Valley - Orly Airport

Private car and van transfer to/from Castle in Loire Valley to Orly Airport

Book a private shuttle transfer service from the Loire Valley to Orly Airport