The most beautiful Loire Valley castles to visit on your holiday
Chambord: the daring dream of François I
You simply can’t talk about the Loire Valley without mentioning Chambord, a true masterpiece of French architecture. With its 426 rooms, its double-helix staircase—often attributed to Leonardo da Vinci—its vast hunting grounds and spectacular views, it never fails to impress.
👉 Fun fact: Disney used Chambord as inspiration for the Beast’s castle in Beauty and the Beast!
Chenonceau: elegance on the water
Stretching gracefully across the River Cher like a white ribbon, Chenonceau is one of the most romantic Loire Valley châteaux. It’s often called “the Ladies’ Castle”, shaped over the centuries by Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici and Louise of Lorraine. Inside, you’ll find richly decorated rooms and long galleries suspended above the water; outside, exquisite gardens invite you to stroll.
👉 Family tip: in summer, you can take a boat ride beneath the château—pure magic at sunset.
Cheverny: from royalty… to Tintin
Less showy than its famous neighbours, Cheverny charms visitors with its understated elegance and its warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Continuously inhabited by the same family for over six centuries, the château inspired Hergé when creating Captain Haddock’s Marlinspike Hall. You can tour the furnished apartments, wander through flower-filled gardens, and even visit a large kennel housing dozens of hunting dogs.
👉 Good to know: every year, a comic-book festival is held at the château.
The château de Montpoupon: an original, immersive visit
Nestled between Loches and Montrésor, Montpoupon is a delightful hidden treasure too often overlooked. Here, there are no crowds or barriers: the visit is free-flowing, engaging and full of surprises. You wander through lived-in rooms as though the owners had just stepped out, discover an unusual collection dedicated to hunting traditions, and finish with a peaceful walk through the woodland park.
👉 Handy tip: A free mobile app accompanies your self-guided visit with anecdotes and well-kept secrets.
The château du Rivau: contemporary art and fairy-tale gardens
Just outside Chinon, Rivau blends medieval heritage, fairy-tale imagery and contemporary art. In the gardens, giant boots or unicorn sculptures appear around unexpected corners. Inside, modern artworks interact beautifully with ancient stone walls.
👉 A must-do: The family trail, which turns the visit into a fantasy-style treasure hunt.
The château de Beauregard: 327 portraits and a cabinet of curiosities
A short distance from Blois, this Renaissance château is home to the extraordinary “Gallery of Illustrious People”: 327 portraits of historical figures, including Francis I, Catherine de’ Medici and Shakespeare. Unique in France, it’s a must-see. The recently created Portrait Garden is the perfect finishing touch to your visit.
👉 Anecdote: The gallery floor is made up of 5,000 blue faience tiles—each one different!
The gardens of Villandry: symmetry in all its glory
Even without its château, Villandry would already be a dream destination. The gardens are world-famous for their perfect symmetry and symbolic patterns. The Love Garden, the Music Garden, the ornamental vegetable patch… It’s a botanical masterpiece.
👉 For photographers: The view from the château terraces is breathtaking in every season.
A castle at the top of the stairs: the royal fortress of Chinon
History lovers should head to Chinon and its royal fortress perched on a rocky outcrop. The panoramic view over the town is incredible, and the immersive displays (soundscapes, projections, reconstructions) plunge you into the dramatic stories of Joan of Arc and King Henry II Plantagenet.
👉 For families: The interactive trail for children—well designed, playful and educational.
Sleeping nearby
After a day of discoveries, nothing beats unwinding in a 5-star campsite. At Parc de Fierbois, you’re just a short drive from Tours, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau and Amboise. At Bois du Bardelet, you’re ideally placed near Gien, Loches, Château de La Bussière and other charming estates.
Both Les Castels campsites offer family activities, swimming pools, comfortable rentals and a peaceful, nature-centred atmosphere—perfect for a gentle, relaxing stay.
Tips for a perfect trip through the valley of kings
Plan ahead: some châteaux offer night tours or sound-and-light shows—don’t miss them!
Take your time: it’s better to explore two châteaux properly than to rush through ten.
Enjoy the gardens: picnicking beside a fountain, reading under an ancient lime tree… that’s also the French art of living.
A final word
With its castles, gardens, royal history and gentle atmosphere, the Loire Valley is a dream destination for lovers of art, culture, nature and family adventures. By staying in a Les Castels campsite, you place yourself right at the heart of this living heritage.
So… ready to climb a spiral staircase, meet François I and enjoy a Renaissance-style picnic?
