Vacations Destinations

The Loire Valley in France has the largest selection of fifteenth and 16th century chateaux. With around 60 “must see” chateaux sprinkled on both sides of a 100-mile sweep of the Loire River, the first-time visitor can feel overwhelmed.

Details of 5 of the best-known castles are below.

Chateau Chenonceau

Chenonceau Chateau amazes you with its two-story, 260-foot Great Gallery spanning across the River Cher. Originally “acquired” by King Francois I, it passed to his successor, Henri II, who gave it to Diane de Poitiers his mistress. Diane expanded the castle and constructed a bridge over the river.

When Henri II died, his bittered wife, Catherine de Medici, took revenge on her rival by forcing Diane to exchange Chateau Chenonceau for nearby Chateau Chaumont. Catherine then commissioned the construction of the bridge gallery. Unbelievably extravagant galas were hosted here until Catherine’s son, Henry III, was murdered. His wife, Louise de Savoie, placed the castle in mourning, furnishing it entirely in black and white.

History leaps out as you tour the rooms and the gardens. In world war I the Great Gallery was converted to a hospital. In WWII the castle marked the boundary between free and Nazi-occupied France and became the site of prisoner exchanges. Today the castle and grounds are maintained at their height as if they were at under Catherine de Medici.

Chateau Clos Luce

Not more than a half mile from the village centre is Chateau Le Clos Luce, a castle built and designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Under the generous sponsorship of Francois I’ he lived the last three years of his life here. The rooms are filled with 40 models of Leonardo’s inventions so you can marvel at his impressive mental powers and foresight five hundred years earlier.

Chateau Amboise

The narrow cobbled streets of Amboise wind at the base of the huge Chateau Amboise. Although only 25% of the original castle survives, the fortress walls with flying banners look down river and the village at its feet. It was here that King Francois I hit his head on a low arch, bringing an early end to his life.

Chateau Chambord

King Francois I was not content with just the castles at Amboise and Chenonceau. He acquired over 10,000 acres of hunting land and decided to build the world’s most incredible “hunting lodge.” Chambord was constructed over many decades by Francois and his successors, Henri II and Charles IX in the 16th century.

Fully restored now, Chambord stands as the most extravagant of all the Loire chateaux - 500 feet wide with 440 rooms and 365 fireplaces. The central grand staircase was supposedly designed by the great Italian, Leonardo da Vinci. It has double spirals which enable two parties of people to descend and climb simultaneously on foot or horseback without meeting. Chambord will reward any visit with its grandeur and extravagance.

Chateau Chaumont-sur-Loire

Built in the fifteenth century by Lord Amboise on the site of a tenth century feudal fortress, Chaumont has incredible views of the Loire Valley. It was later the home of both Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici of Castle Chenonceau fame. Enjoy this castle for its furnishings, drawbridge, fortress feeling, tapestry, and incredible vistas.

Rememer whilst castle hopping to take the time to happen upon some local wine cellars, for tasting or “degustation”. Take the time to relax and soak up the atmosphere and enjoy your vacation.

We run a luxury castle in the Loire Valley, perfect for a wedding castle and for visiting vineyards, castles and relaxing with family and friends. A french wedding castle is a wonderful location for a wedding.

Go ahead and spoil yourself with a wedding chateau