Loire castles map. Loire castles, where to look for them on the map of France and a master class on an independent trip. Chambord castle opening hours

Examined, time to expand the scope of travel by going to the Loire castles.

They got their definition from the name of the longest river in France (1012 km) - the Loire, which originates on Mount Gerbier-de-Jones in the south of the country, and flows into the Atlantic Ocean in the north.

The main water stream and the numerous tributaries outgoing from it have become an attractive place for the construction of estates among kings and nobles since the Middle Ages.

Today, there are 76 chateaux of different sizes, shapes and degrees of preservation along the river bed, and some are generally in a state of picturesque ruins.

Of course, the Loire Valley is too large to inspect it even for a fleeting moment in a short time, so we will focus on especially popular routes where they organize.

This is one of the largest and most famous palaces in the valley. Francis I ordered it to be erected, wishing to be closer to the beloved Countess of Turi. Construction lasted from 1519-1547, and although the architect is not known for certain, some research points to da Vinci himself. True, he did not live up to the moment of laying the rosette stone for only a few months, and the Italian architect Boccador was already working with the construction plan he had left.

Chambord Castle is a striking example of the Renaissance, surrounded by lush forest vegetation and reflected in the mirror-like waters of the Beuvron tributary.

It resembles a fortress, and was even built around a donjon tower, although it was never planned as a fort, just a similar style was popular then.

Outside, it is interesting to see the many turrets and bell towers, and going inside, in the central part, the spiral staircase immediately draws attention to itself, in which the style of Leonardo is guessed. It is constructed from two separate, identically curving flights, but at the same time they do not intersect anywhere.

This excludes the collision of those who climb the steps with the topic, who descend. It is also possible to climb along it to the upper terrace, also conceived by the great maestro. From there, a wonderful panorama of the surrounding lands opens from above. The platform also allows you to admire the chimneys, capitals and walk around the keep.

In the castle, 77 gracefully curved staircases lead to 426 rooms, most of which have their own fireplace, and 800 pilasters are practically a grove, where the tops are decorated with openwork ornaments, curls and sculptural compositions.
Among other decorations, the emblem of the king in the form of the letter F, crowned with a crowned salamander, is often found. Sometimes the monogram is turned upside down so that the Almighty can discern the greatness of the monarch.

In the interior there are many paintings and tapestries depicting hunting, as well as trophies - deer heads on the walls and stuffed animals of smaller animals in glass enclosures. By the way, the symbol of the adjacent park is deer and wild boar, although today feathered brethren reign in it, numbering at least 100 species.

The outer area covers 5441 hectares, but only 1000 is accessible to visitors. This is the largest European walled park, surrounded by a 32 km wall.
Although the castle was built with enthusiasm, Francis was an infrequent guest in it, and the subsequent owners were not very interested in the estate, and it was often transferred or rented out.

So, Louis XV in the middle of the XVIII century. allowed the legendary Count Saint-Germain to settle here, and he opened a laboratory in him, where, during alchemical experiments, he tried to get the Philosopher's Stone. They say he succeeded in the end.

The estate began to be turned into a tourist site in 1947, and in 1981 it became a UNESCO heritage, however, like all the other castles of the Loire Valley.

The initial version of the palace was built for the Angevin Count Fulk Nerra, but the version that we see originated in 1492 by order of Charles VIII, and under him the first regular garden, like the Italian, reigned, where geometry, symmetry and thoughtful green compositions reign. ...

This chateau is also closely related to the name of King Francis I and Leonardo da Vinci. The monarch was warm to the possessions, because it belonged to his mother. He settled the great master in the nearby castle of Clu, and the choice was made in part because of the secret underground connection between him and Amboise, along which it was possible to navigate without attracting unnecessary glances. Here Leonardo finished his Mona Lisa, and after his death in 1519 he was buried in the chapel of St. Hubert at the castle.

When Francis I was gone, a young couple moved here - Henry II with Catherine de Medici. In it, they raised their children and daughter-in-law Mary Stuart. Here Francis II was hiding from the Huguenots, but a vendetta awaited the conspirators within these walls.

The Château Amboise is an example of international gothic style, which is characterized by exaltation, refined sophistication and colorful décor. This is a real fortress with massive masonry, and although it is only a tenth of what has survived to this day, the chateau still admires its medieval beauty.

Inside are fine collections of ancient tapestries, Gothic furnishings, and many portraits of a line of rulers.

In common people it is also called "ladies' castle". It resembles a fairytale palace, where the ringing voices of carefree princesses are heard, and the ancient donjon tower suggests Rapunzel, imprisoned at the very top by an evil witch. However, the Shannonson estate has many personal stories - romantic, intriguing, fatal.

The date of its foundation is considered to be 1411, but then it was a military fortress, and it began to change a century later under Thomas Boyer, who destroyed almost everything except the central tower. The restoration work required significant investments, and to remind the descendants of this, the owner of the estate ordered to engrave his initials (TVK) and the epitaph: "Whoever comes here someday, let him think of me."

After the death of Thomas and his wife, their son inherited the Chenonceau castle, but soon lost his possessions due to financial difficulties, and Francis I confiscated them. Further, his son Henry presented the chateau to his favorite, Diana de Saint-Valier de Poitiers, and with her began the female era.

Under Diana, a garden and a stone bridge over the river appeared, but when the estate returned to the royal family, Catherine de Medici loved to arrange lavish celebrations there. The decor also changed - fountains, arches, columns, obelisks, statues and a landscaped park appeared. But all the celebrations ended when the queen died.

From time to time something changed in the castle - one of its wings turned into a Capuchin monastery, in 1733 Madame Dupin opened a fashionable salon, a small theater and a physical office. During the First World War, a hospital was located here, and during the Second World War - a partisan headquarters.

Although the stately structure is privately owned today, it is open to the public. You will visit Diana's garden, see the oldest building of the estate - the donjon, standing at the corner of the Parade courtyard.

The drawbridge opens the entrance to the first floor, where the Hall of the Guardsmen and the Green is located, and on the second tier - the apartments of Diane de Poitiers, the State Room and the "five queens" (named after two queens and three brides), the chambers of Charles of Vendome and Catherine de Medici.

During the tour, you will also be shown the royal cuisine with copper utensils and a huge spit. It is also interesting to visit the office premises, where once there were stables, a silkworm factory, and in the wax museum - the "Gallery of Ladies", the frozen figures of crowned persons continue to participate in important matters. And of course, you will be interested in the green part of the territory - an old farm, a flower garden with 130 different plants, a labyrinth of yews and caryatids, and a large meadow.

The magical castle of Aze-le-Rideau rises above the colorful bend of the Indre River. It is not spoiled by crowds of tourists, and therefore looks like a tidbit for those who dream of enjoying a Renaissance masterpiece in relative seclusion.

Built in 1510 by the treasurer of Francis I on the site of an old 12th century estate, it remembers its first owner, Rideau d'Azei, so cruel that he was nicknamed "the devil's child."

Dumas was in love with this castle, whose heroes built intrigues, intrigues and relationships within its walls. Balzac was also not indifferent to him, comparing him in the novel "Lily in the Valley" with a skillfully cut diamond, the setting of which was the clear waters of Endre.

Blois Castle

This is the largest palace in the Loire Valley, which once served as a royal residence. The lion's share of the estate was built in the 15th century. under the Dukes of Orleans, and the decoration in the style of the late Renaissance was given to it by Claude, daughter of Louis XII and wife of Francis I. However, after her death, her husband left the chateau, and it remained unfinished.

Visitors are also exposed to the dark side of the estate. With the help of his bodyguards, King Henry III dealt with Henry of Guise and his brother the Cardinal, and two weeks later, Catherine de 'Medici died, leaving her secret cache of poisons to her own devices, and they will definitely show it to you. And Louis XIII sent his own mother, Maria de Medici, into exile here.

The castle of Blois got its final face in the 19th century under Louis-Philippe, and now everyone can see it in all its glory.

Guided tours of the Loire Castles from Paris

If you have enough time at your disposal, subscribing for 2-3 days will be even more interesting.

Of course, in this case, you are deprived of freedom of action, but you will gain a lot of fascinating information about architectural masterpieces, their owners and about what events took place in different periods of history.

Tourists are transported by comfortable bus from one palace to another, and in the cabin they are entertained with funny stories, so that the journey will become vivid and memorable.

The cost of such a tour depends on the route, the number of people in the group and the vehicle. For micro-groups of 4-8 persons, the price is approximately 95 euros each. In individual excursions for 1-6 people - about 500-600 euros per group. Although it is more expensive, it is possible to adjust the trip by adding something new to it.

In an organized voyage, the toll is already included in the payment, but the entrance to each castle can become a separate fee (9-15 euros) or be part of the total amount. It often also includes lunch at a restaurant. If you have to stay overnight at a hotel, the price will jump even further.

On site, tourists are given a little freedom to independently wander the halls and take photos. Often, for a change, the program includes visits to wineries with a tasting of a local product.

Ordering a trip is not a problem, because on the Internet, many agencies offer their services through their own sites, flavoring them with promotions, bonuses and tempting add-ons, just to interest you.

Excursion to the Loire Castles on your own

Many people prefer to visit the Loire castles on their own, which also has its advantages. The main one is complete freedom of action.

To get to your destination, you can use public transport or take, especially since there should be no problems with orientation on the terrain, because all the Loire castles are marked on the map of France.

Loire castles on the map

Trains leave from Paris to Blois and Tours from Austerlitz Station. Tickets cost about 30 euros, and you will spend 2 hours on the road.

You can also leave the Montparnasse train station on the high-speed train TGV, and in an hour be in Tours.

At the train stations, you also have a choice - to go further in a rented car or on buses that run between the castles on a schedule and cost up to 10 euros, and the bus ticket itself gives you the opportunity to get a discount on entrance to the palaces.

Audio guides are provided to visitors as information in a language they understand.

True, it cannot be said that you will save a lot on an individual trip, especially if you choose the option with renting a car, which must be refueled and paid for parking. Adding up the costs of the train in both directions, food (15-20 euros per person), the cost of the bus and hotel accommodation (55-80 euros), it is not such a small sum.

But when no one urges you on, you can completely dissolve in the atmosphere of medieval royal life, imagine the rustle of lush ladies' skirts, the grinding of knightly armor, the sound of heels and a mysterious whisper in the dark corners of the palace.

The imagination is especially vigorous when there are no crowds of tourists nearby. This happy moment falls in the morning hours (until 11:00), when the first buses with groups led by guides have not yet arrived.

Loire castles allow you to travel in time. Each is a beautiful jewel, born by the will of man, and retaining the spirit of the time when luxury was demonstrated on a grand scale.

The Loire River from the Sancerre Hills to Angers flows past an endless line ofluxurious mansions, palaces and castles. Guided tour of the castles of Lauracomparable to a fascinating journey through different eras of French history. Châteaude Loches and d "Angers give a glimpse of the 9th century fortifications. The elegant Château deChenonceau was created in the XIII century. The Cheverny Manor was built in the 15th-16th centuries. Eachthe castle is unique and worthy of a traveler's attention. Our private tour of the Loire Castles.

The most famous castles of the Loire

There are more than 300 castles on the Loire, more than 70 open to the public.which of them to go and what to see is difficult for a simple tourist. And even hardermake the correct route. If you are planning a trip to the Loire Castles firsttimes, then we have prepared a short list of the most popular and certainly the mostbeautiful castles of the Loire Valley. You can take a trip either independently or as part of an excursion group from Paris.

Chambord castle

Chenonceau castle

Cheverny Castle

The fate of the castle of Cheverny (château de Cheverny) turned out to be happy: wars and civil strife, due to which the building has been preserved almost in its original form.The descendants of its founder, Royal Chancellor Philippe Huro, still occupythe upper floors, and the lower ones were kindly transferred to the disposal of curious tourists.Cheverny is surrounded by a picturesque English-style park. Alternative to walkingalong the green alleys is a boat ride on the canal. Localthe kennel is also considered an attraction, where a hundred purebredhounds dogs.

Blois Castle

How to plan a self-guided tour of the Loire Castles?

Tourists go to the Loire Valley from Paris by train, car or sightseeing bus. There are daily trains from Austerlitz Station to Blois and Tours.The cost of a train ticket to Blois in a 2nd class carriage is about € 30, the journey time is almost 2 hours. Fromhigh-speed TGVs depart from Montparnasse station, which will take you to Tours for aboutin an hour. In Tours, you can rent a car or get local transport to the castlesyourself.

The easiest way, of course, is to travel around the castles by car. For the first time we we advise you the following route (it can be overcome even by car even forpublic transport):

First day

Arrive in Blois in the morning. You inspect the castle and go to Chambord. There you can go to the castle, take a walk in the park and watch an equestrian show.In the evening you return to Blois, where you will spend the night. (hotels in Blois can be viewedhere).

The next day go to Amboise, walk around the castle of Amboise and go to visit Leonardo da Vinci, and after lunch you go to Chenonceau.Evening m return to Amboise, where you spend the night. (Find hotels in Amboise here)

The approximate budget for your trip will be as follows:

• Visiting the castles: 1 ticket for an adult costs approximately 10-12 euros.
• By train: Paris - Blois - 30 euros
• Blois - Amboise - about 7 euros
• Amboise - Paris - about 35 euros.
• Plus the cost of buses from Blois to Chambord and from Amboise to Chenonceau.
• If you rent a car, then 2 days will cost you 60-100 euros + gasoline.
• Lunch - on average - 15 euros, dinner - 20 euros per person.
• The average cost of a hotel in Blois and Amboise is 50-70 euros per room per day.

Loire Castles Tours from Paris

If you do not feel confident about traveling on your own, it is better to take a group excursion. It will also be cheaper.

Moreover, we cannot guarantee that in 2 days you will have time to see 4-5 castles, but tour guides can. But on the other hand, you are relatively losing "freedom"independent travel to castles. So, it's up to you, of course.Excursion groups, as a rule, leave from Paris on comfortable buses.The stories of the guide and the scenery outside the window entertain tourists, so the road seems to be short. ATthe route includes visits to 3-4 castles, entrance tickets, lunch at a restaurant canincluded in the tour price. Given the good wine-making "glory of the Loire Valley,some guides complement the trip with a visit to the winery with tasting. In every castletourists have free time to buy souvenirs, take photos andtake a walk.

You can book a place for a bus tour from Paris to the Loire castles.

Have a nice trip!

I think it's time to diversify your trip to France and take a Loire Valley or Loire Valley.I have compiled for you a small guide to the 7 castles in the valley. What's interesting here: rolling hills, old wineries, wide rivers and, of course, the most famous medieval castles in France.

Long ago, the entire French nobility was concentrated in the Laura Valley. The majestic royal palaces of France were built here in order to strengthen their rule in this commercial and beautiful region.

By the middle of the 16th century, all the high-ranking gentlemen had moved to Paris, so as not to waste time on trips to the capital and back, but the Loire castles continued to be built. They adorn the landscapes of the valley to this day.

In total, there are about 80 castles in the Loire Valley, but in this article we will discuss with you only 7, but which ones! And at the same time, you will learn how to save money in the process of exploring French chateau.

Loire Valley castles on the map

Château Le Lude, located in the commune of the same name in the French department of Sarthe, has a long history. The first building on the site of a modern castle appeared in the 10th century thanks to the famous counts of Anjou, who built a powerful stone fortification instead of a wooden fort. In front of the castle, on the banks of the Loire River, a defensive pier was built. During the Hundred Years War, Le Lude Castle was surrounded several times and partially destroyed.

Currently, the castle, which has been rebuilt many times, is a square fortress surrounded by six towers and wide moats. The architecture of the castle is a combination of many styles, the main of which is the Renaissance style. A special role in the development of the castle as an architectural monument was played by the de Diones family, who for several centuries equipped the castle premises and decorated the facade of the building. Since then, stone medallions on the facades, a courtyard in the style of the "second Renaissance", high windows and tiers of pilasters located one above the other have been preserved. Currently, Le Lude Castle is the private property of the Countess de Nicolai.

Coordinates: 47.64751000,0.15889600

Pornic Castle

In the French department of Loire-Atlantique, there is a small town - the resort of Pornic. It is located just 45 minutes from Nantes, on the Atlantic coast. The city is known for its old port, gorgeous beaches and castle. The Castle of Pornic, also known as the "Castle of Duke Bluebeard", belonged to Gilles de Rais and has long been a symbol of the city. It was located on the northern shore of the port and guarded the entrance to the old port.

Portnik Castle was built in the 10th century from wood. In the XII century, its owners rebuilt it in stone and turned it into a defensive fortress. It acquired the look it is now in the 19th century, after a complete restoration in the spirit of Italian architecture.

If the stones could speak, then, for sure, the walls of the elegant castle in Pornic could tell many horrible stories. The castle belonged to the French marshal Gilles de Rais, who took part in the battle with the Duke of Orléans, was promoted and returned to the family estate. In the castle, the marshal began experiments with black magic, locked hundreds of children in his castle and sacrificed them to demons. And only after committing over a hundred murders he was exposed, and he was executed - burned alive.

Coordinates: 47.11353200,-2.10332400

Monsoreau castle

The Château de Monsoreau, located in the French department of Maine et Loire, has long been a strategic fortress, as reminiscent of the 15th century octagonal observation tower built in the Italian style. The castle itself was built in 1455 from white sandstone in the Renaissance style with a huge number of fireplaces, spiral staircases, wall paintings, by Jean de Chambes, adviser to King Charles VII.

The most famous owner of the castle was Charles de Chambs, a character in Alexandre Dumas's father's novel The Countess de Monsoreau. Charles de Chambes and his wife, the Countess de Monsoreau, lured her lover, M. de Bussy d'Amboise, to the castle, where de Chambes' detachment brutally executed him.

Since 1862, the castle of Monsoreau has been included in the list of historical monuments under the protection of the French Ministry of Culture. Now in 16 halls of the castle, which has been owned by the Department of Maine et Loire since 1913, there is an exhibition "Images of the Loire" and a museum of the Moroccan cavalry detachment, the collection of which contains weapons, items of military paraphernalia of the detachment that conquered Morocco and participated in the Second World War.

Coordinates: 47.21557100,0.06249800

Sully-sur-Loire castle

Sully-sur-Loire Castle is a medieval castle of the Loire Valley, which is located on the left bank of the river and throughout history is considered a "Castle on four trade routes": water and three earthly. The date of the building's construction is unknown, but for the first time in the annals it was mentioned at the beginning of the 12th century.

The creators of the castle are the Sully family of barons - the heirs of the ancient Roman dictator Sulla, who built a ferry across the river, for the use of which they took money. In 1218, by order of Philip Augustus, a high tower was added to the castle, and a barnyard with a dungeon was created. After some time, Cardinal Mazarin and Anna of Austria were hiding in the defensive castle.

This castle can also be noted for the fact that in the 18th century the poet and philosopher Voltaire, who sought refuge from the Regent because of his satirical works, stayed within its walls. Since 1962, Sully-sur-Loire Castle has been owned by the state and is open to the public. It attracts tourists with its extraordinary interior and the Hall of Psyche. The latter contains interesting tapestries that tell the story of Psyche, Cupid and Venus.

Coordinates: 47.76758500,2.37526200

Langeais castle

Langeais Castle began its history in the tenth century, when its first stone was laid by Count Fulk the Black. The fortress was built on a sheer cliff. Under Fulk, the fortress looked more like a stone manor. Everything changed with the arrival of Richard the Lionheart to the throne. It was during the reign of the legendary king that Langeais Castle was enlarged enough to fulfill its main functions.

The oldest surviving French fortress has seen many wars and battles. In 1206, the Langeais castle was captured by Philip II, and during the Hundred Years War it was severely damaged during the sieges by the British.

The look, in which the castle has survived to this day, was finally formed under Louis XI. Interestingly, Langeais Castle is one of the few castles that have fully retained the functionality of their drawbridge.

Coordinates: 47.32479200,0.40632200

Beauregard Castle

Beauregard Castle, located in the Loire-et-Cher department, 10 kilometers from Blois, consists of two parts, built at different times. Most of the castle was created in 1545, when it was owned by the Secretary of State of King Henry II Jean de Thiers, lord de Beauregard, whose name the castle still bears. Since then, the original frescoes and an Italian-style fireplace have been preserved in the Grand Gallery. In 1617, the Beauregard castle was bought by Paul Ardier, military treasurer. By his order, the building was completed in the Renaissance style of white stone, with bas-reliefs on the pediment, arched entrances and symmetrical lines.

To decorate the interior of the castle, Ardier invited the best artists of the country, whose main brainchild was the Gallery of Portraits 26 meters long. 327 portraits of famous French and foreign statesmen, from kings and queens to marshals and treasurers, have survived to this day. The floor of the Gallery is lined with 5,500 faience tiles, the ceiling is blue, made of lapis lazuli - one of the most expensive minerals in the 17th century. The castle is still inhabited by the descendants of Ardier, but it is open to tourists who can enjoy the interiors of the Middle Ages and, of course, visit the famous Gallery of portraits.

Coordinates: 47.53695700,1.38358900

Angersky castle

Angersky Castle is a majestic medieval defensive structure of irregular shape on the embankment of the River Maine. The fortress was built in the XI century on the site of an already existing wooden fortification. From the beginning of the 12th to the end of the 16th century, the castle was surrounded by a massive stone wall with 17 round Gothic-style towers, which in 1574 were demolished to the level of the walls by order of Henry III and were never rebuilt.

By the way, during the Second World War, the citadel was practically not used, and therefore it came down to us in good condition. The famous tapestries "Angersky Apocalypse" dating from the XIV century deserve special attention. A total of 64 tapestries have survived. In the courtyard there is a small Gothic palace, a chapel and a picturesque mini-park. Guided tours are held on the territory of the Chateau daily throughout the year.

Coordinates: 47.47000000,-0.56000000

La Ferte Castle

La Ferte Castle is a former Cistercian abbey founded in 1113 under the leadership of Stephen Harding, abbot of the Cistercians. It is considered the first daughter monastery of the Sito order. As a result of the seizure of the monastery by the Huguenot troops of Admiral Coligny, most of the buildings were destroyed, and the monastery lands were sold. In 1760, the abbey was rebuilt into a rich palace. Now it is owned by a private person, and an interesting excursion route is laid along its corridors.

The whole building is divided into two parts, one of which is intended for monks and the other for the abbot. The rooms are furnished with monastic armchairs, the walls are decorated with carpets, a bust of the last abbot of La Farte, various paintings bearing sacred thoughts. In the living room of the abbot there is a bust of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, you can also see bas-reliefs on biblical motifs, wands, crosses, canvases and much more.

The largest staircase in Burgundy was built in La Farthe castle. And in one of the parts of the building, you can see portraits of all the owners of the former monastery. Today the castle is home to the family of Jacques Thénard, who maintains its fortune thanks to tourists and agriculture.

Coordinates: 47.06517100,2.04034000

Chenonceau castle

The delightful Chenonceau castle is located on the Cher River. Its history begins in 1243, when the de Marc family settled on these lands. Initially, the castle was heavily fortified, but de Marc had the imprudence to place an English garrison on the territory of his estate. Upon learning of this, the French king ordered the demolition of all defensive fortifications.

In 1512, the castle went to Thomas Boyer, who turned out to be a great lover of the Renaissance architectural style. By order of Boye, all the old buildings were demolished, and a large construction project began on their foundations. By coincidence, Boye's wife was in charge of the construction business, and Thomas himself, on duty, often traveled and died in Italy. Throughout its further history, the Chenonceau castle belonged to noble ladies, including royal blood.

Coordinates: 47.32472200,1.07027800

Fougeres-sur-Bievre castle

Fougeres-sur-Bievre Castle is one of the Loire Valley castles, located on the banks of the Bievers River. It was built by Pierre de Refuge - treasurer at the court of Louis XI, on the site of a defensive fortress destroyed during the Hundred Years War by the troops of Prince Edward III of Wales. After the battle, only the dungeons survived, which needed a little restoration. The building is designed in the style of medieval castles.

The construction of the castle was completed by Jean de Vilbresme. In 1789, the palace passed into the possession of Rene Lambo, whose descendants opened a spinning mill inside the building, which operated until 1890. The restoration of the castle began in 1932 under the leadership of the state.

Today, the building is the best example of buildings of the Middle Ages, as its appearance has hardly changed, despite the domination of the Renaissance. The towers cut by narrow loopholes, the massive sandstone brick building, the heavy and low arches of the courtyard, the enclosed courtyard and much more point to the Middle Ages.

Furniture and other interior details have not survived to this day, but inside the castle you can visit an exhibition dedicated to the peculiarities of the fortification business, aimed at children.

Coordinates: 47.44768800,1.34374100

Sachet Castle

Sachet Castle, located in the eponymous commune of the French province of Indre-et-Loire, on the banks of the Indre River, was built in the 16th century on the site of a 12th-century Renaissance fortress made of gray stone with 4 floors. Since then, a cylindrical Romanesque tower and moats have survived, which are now dried up. Over the centuries, the building has been rebuilt several times.

In the 18th-19th centuries, the castle was owned by the family of Jean de Margon, who was close friends with the father of the famous novelist Honore de Balzac. From 1829 to 1837, the writer lived in a small room on the second floor of the castle. It was here that such stories were written as "Father Goriot", "Maestro Cornelio", "Louis Lambert", "Caesar Birotto". From here Balzac wrote many letters to his acquaintances. In 1951, the Balzac Museum was opened in the Sachet castle. His collection includes not only personal belongings, but also numerous manuscripts, publications and a large collection of old icons. In 1983, Sachet was included in the list of historical monuments in France, which are under state protection.

Coordinates: 47.24576900,0.54463300

Lavarden Castle

Lavardin Castle, located in the commune of the same name in the French department of Cher-et-Loire, is now a medieval ruin. The first stone fortress was built on this place, on a hill, among forests, in 1070. In the 12th century, towers and a triple façade were added to the main building, making the castle one of the fortified buildings among the nearby ones. Several times the castle was rebuilt and fortified, adapting to new military strategies.

An interesting historical fact is the fact that even the famous Richard the Lionheart could not capture the castle. Lavardin Castle was completely destroyed in the 16th century by the troops of Henry IV. Today you can see several buildings, from one of which there is a large gatehouse with embrasures for guns, a large underground storeroom. Through the security room of the building located above, you can get into the underground galleries. From a height of 26 meters on the last level of the buildings of Lavarden Castle, there is a beautiful view of the neighboring villages and valleys.

Coordinates: 47.74078800,0.88308200

Wharon Castle

Ouaron Castle is a world landmark located in Ouaron, in the department of De-Sèvres, western France. The history of the castle begins with the war with the British for the rule of France in the 15th century, when the King of France, Charles VII the Winner, gave possession and a large forest to Ouaron Guillaume Gouffier, who became governor of Tureni. Castle Ouaron is the place that Charles Perrault described in his fairy tale "Puss in Boots". The mistress of King Louis XIV, Madame de Montespan, lived in this castle.

Guillaume Gouffier built a magnificent castle, and his descendants renovated and improved it. In 1538, his stepdaughter Helene de Hengest was in charge of the construction of the cathedral church, which is adjacent to the castle. In 1551, Henry II and all his retinue visited Claude Gouffier, who was awarded the title of Marquis de Caravas. Claude Gouffier served as a prototype for "The Marquis of Carabas" in the fairy tale "Puss in Boots".

After several renovations, the castle consisted of a main building and two long projecting wings, one of which is a rebuilt monastery. The chateau galleries contain adjacent works of art from the French Renaissance.

Coordinates: 46.95205700,-0.07737800

Freteval Castle

Château Freteval is another castle among the Loire Castles, located in the municipality of Freteval, Loire and Cher. The territory of the castle occupies about 5 hectares, it has three lines of defense, as well as a real stone dungeon.

The castle was originally a military facility. His first fortress was built on the site of the partially preserved ruins of the fortified Carolingian settlement Saint Victor. The circular stone dungeons of Freteval Castle were probably built before the start of the first crusade led by Count Stephen II of Blois.

Freteval Castle attracts tourists every year due to its beauty and history. Near the castle is an old town with well-preserved houses. It is surprising that, despite the massiveness of the stone building, the castle is characterized by sophistication and comfort in residential floors.

Coordinates: 47.88534800,1.21148900

Noirmoutier castle

Noirmoutier-en-l-Ile, or simply Noirmoutier, is a resort settlement in the northern part of the French island of the same name, the Vendee department. The city itself grew up around a monastery founded in 674. To defend against the Viking raids, the monks built fortifications, on the basis of which the castle of Noirmoutier was erected - one of the most impregnable on the Atlantic coast of France. During its history, it withstood many sieges, but was taken by the Dutch admiral Tromp.

This castle is well preserved and clearly showcases the architecture of the twelfth century. It is built of rubble and has three parts, the last of which contains a stately house. The tower located in the center of the hull is solid and rectangular. It has many loopholes and defensive turrets in the corners. The gate also has similar turrets at the corners. From the Benedictine monastery of St. Philibert, a Romanesque church has survived, greatly rebuilt after a fire in 1848.

The castle is famous for the fact that in 1832 the French inventor Villerois first tested his submarine here. Now the castle of Noirmoutier with its dungeon, courtyard, building is classified as one of the historical monuments of France. There are always a lot of tourists here. And since 1993, music and theater festivals have been held in August.

Coordinates: 47.00122700,-2.24226200

Castle Amboise

The majestic white stone castle in Amboise was built in the 16th century as a defensive fortress. Its owners - the influential Amboise family - lost their possession after being accused of betraying the king. The castle passed into the state treasury, which later allowed Charles VIII to make it a royal residence. At the same time, the reconstruction of the castle began.

In 1515, the artist Leonardo da Vinci came here at the invitation of the monarch. Here he finishes La Gioconda and dies in 1519. His grave is in the chapel of the castle.

During the French Revolution, most of the castle was destroyed and plundered. He is now recovering. The castle is open to the public. Guided tours, various activities, including at night. For a reasonable fee, everyone can feel like a guest of the castle in the Renaissance.

Like most historical museums in France, the castle in Amboise is adapted for people with disabilities. For children under 7 years old and children from large families, admission is free.

Coordinates: 47.41279600,0.98651600

Menard castle

The Château Menard, located in the famous French region of the Loire Valley, between the cities of Tours and Orleans, was built in the 17th century in the Romanesque style of white stone. A two-storey castle with an even row of windows and classic gable roofs stands on the river bank. The palace was expanded several times and now it is a building with the main building and attached parts of different levels.

The Château Menard is famous for the fact that for some time it served as the residence of the famous Marquise de Pompadour, the favorite of King Louis XV. The Marquis acquired this beautiful chateau in 1760 for a million livres from the heirs of the tax-farmer Guillaume Charron, who served under Louis XIV and earned a huge fortune. To expand the property, Madame de Pompadour invited the famous royal architect Gabriel, but did not have time to implement her plans, since she died already in 1764.

The castle was succeeded by her brother Marigny, who completed the work started by her sister with the help of the great architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot, the author of the Paris Pantheon project. So on the territory of the castle there were vast terraces leading to the Laura River, beautiful park areas that are in full harmony with the surrounding area.

Coordinates: 47.63882000,1.41040000

Brissac Castle

Brissac Castle, located in the Languedoc province, is the tallest in France. Its height is 52 meters.

The name of the castle and the surrounding area is associated with the medieval nickname of the millers "Breche-sac", which means "hole in the bag". It is believed that millers poured grain through a specially made hole in the bag. The initiator of the construction of the castle-fortress was the Count of Anjou Fulk Nerra. However, the owners of the fortress were constantly changing up to 1434, and the main purpose of the fortress was military, a military garrison was based in the castle. The architecture of the castle was significantly influenced by the art of the Italian Renaissance, whose adherents were many architects who created the beautiful buildings in the Loire Valley.

The northern and eastern facades of the castle overlook the city of Brissac and the park. The northern wing, located at right angles to the main building, has a more austere style. There is a tall square tower nearby.

In the Gothic south tower there is a private chapel, where you can see the famous marble bas-relief by the local master of the early 19th century David d "Angers. The interiors of the castle, carefully preserved by the owners, are of particular interest to visitors. The walls of the halls are decorated with decorative wood panels, the ceilings are covered with paintings and the furnishings of the apartments are made up of valuable antique pieces of furniture.

Coordinates: 47.35294000,0.44975300

Plessis-Burre Castle

The Plessis-Bourret castle, located in the French department of Maine et Loire, is considered one of the most magnificent castles in the famous Loire Valley. It was built from 1462 to 1472 by the treasurer of King Louis XI, Jean Bourret, who acquired these lands for private ownership. The castle is a small fortress, a large rectangle with four corner towers, standing right on the river bank. According to the owner's plan, in addition to the defensive function, the castle was supposed to be suitable for comfortable living, which was taken care of by the country's best architects.

During the First and Second World War, the Plessis-Burré castle was used by the local authorities as a hospital and an embassy. The interiors of the castle, opened to tourists in 1955, are of great interest as preserved from the Middle Ages in their original form. A special attraction of the Plessis-Burré castle is the guardhouse with a wooden ceiling painted on themes of fairy tales, proverbs and allegories.

Coordinates: 47.60095300,-0.54431700

Losh Castle

Losh Castle was built at the beginning of the 11th century by Fulk Nerra. The palace, whose height is 36 meters, is now read as one of the most impressive buildings of the Norman period. The castle is an excellent example of military architecture. Previously, it was a prison, the most famous prisoner of the castle of Los was Ludwig Sforza, Duke of Milan.

The Royal Apartments of the Castle of Loches are a clear example of the French Renaissance. The façade opens onto a terrace overlooking the historic city and the Indre Valley. The castle is marked by such famous women in French history as Jeanne d'Arc, Agnes Sorel and Anna Brittany, and every year this place attracts many tourists from different parts of the world.

Coordinates: 47.12472200,0.99666700

La Bussieres Castle

La Bussienne Castle is located on the Vernisson reservoir in the city of the same name in France. It is one of the most visited castles of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1962, Chaisval was opened to the public. The castle houses a collection of art in the field of fishing. In honor of this, the building was named.

All the interior design of the structure is made on the theme of fishing. The kitchen, the pantry, and the living rooms are all furnished with fish trophies, decorated with paintings depicting fish. In the corners of the rooms, there are sculptures featuring fish, fishing gear, and so on. Also in a kind of museum are exhibited folk art objects such as ceramics, glass and much more from past times.

Today, La Bussienne Château is constantly open to visitors, who can explore the colorful greenhouses, manicured stables and a cozy small park, as if created for romantic walks.

Coordinates: 47.74741300,2.74694100

Mayenne Castle

France has a small department of Mayenne. There are many electrical engineering factories here, and in these places they produce excellent fabrics and sew clothes. And the area is like a chessboard: sandy landscapes here alternate with fertile fields, pastures, apiaries. The medieval Mayenne Castle is located in this department. It was founded in the eighth century during the reign of Charlemagne and served to protect Brittany from Maine.

Initially, the castle was built of wood, but in 920 it was rebuilt in stone. It included a two-story rectangular main building and a square tower. During the French Revolution, the castle was used to house prisoners, and after some alterations, two courts were housed here, one for men and the other for women. This was done in order to delimit the space for men and women.

The castle is one of the archaeological sites of the Loire, is the subject of research for the height of the masonry. It was proved that the castle, preserved on three levels, was a defensive structure.

Coordinates: 48.30379300,-0.61643600

Castle of the Dukes of Brittany

Externally, the residence of the Dukes of Brittany, located in the Loire River valley, resembles a classic medieval castle - high walls, six powerful towers, deep moats. The outer walls were substantially fortified in 1466 by Francis II, who did his best to preserve Brittany's independence from France. However, this did not succeed - his daughter Anne of Breton became the wife of the French king Charles VIII, and the castle gradually lost its military functions. In 1598, the Edict of Nantes was signed by King Henry IV at the castle. During the bourgeois revolution, a prison and an arsenal were located in the castle, and in 1800, a disaster struck - some of the buildings were badly damaged by a powerful explosion in the arsenal. The complex of castle buildings includes several buildings, some of which existed until the end of the 18th century. On the facade of one of the remaining buildings - "Grand Lodge" you can see the coat of arms symbolizing the annexation of Brittany to France. A walking route with a visit to the medieval tower "Golden Crown" runs along the part of the fortress walls. In the courtyard, there is a well, decorated with the ducal heraldic symbols.

Coordinates: 47.21623100,1.54909400

Castle of Anne of Breton in Nantes

Anne of Breton's castle is located in the city of Nantes, on the banks of the Loire River, on the site of an old Gallo-Roman fortress. According to historical data, it was founded in the XIII century. Large-scale construction of the castle began in the 15th century. In 1488, Anne of Breton was born here, the most popular ruler of Brittany and the first princess in Europe to wear a white dress on her wedding day. Previously, white clothing was considered mourning.

The real name of the castle is "Castle of the Breton kings in Nantes". However, this place is most often associated with Anna - the only woman who became Queen of France 2 times. In 1491 she married the French king Charles VIII, and only 7 years later she was widowed. The new king of France, Louis XII, a distant relative of Anna's late husband, proposed to her. And she became the wife of the monarch for the second time.

The majestic snow-white castle in the center of Nantes is the oldest building in the city. At various times, it served as a military fortress, royal residence, barracks, military warehouse, and prison. Now it houses a museum that houses real treasures. In 1862 it was declared a historical monument. After World War II, during which the Nazi invaders set up a bunker in the castle, the building was restored for 15 years.

The castle is equipped with a modern facade lighting system that turns the castle into a real fairytale place.

Coordinates: 47.21623100,-1.54911700

Clisson Castle

Clisson Castle is located in the town of Clisson, 107 kilometers west of Saumur, in the Loire department. It is located on a high granite plateau on the left bank of the Sevres-Nantez river. This castle belonged to the Clisson family and was built in the 13th - 15th centuries.

It was a closed fortress wall with many defensive towers. At the beginning of the 15th century, the castle was captured by the Duke of Brittany, Francis. Under him, the castle turned into a real formidable fortress. Another fortress wall was completed. Clisson Castle was an important strategic point on the Brittany border, providing protection from the Duchies of Anjou and Poitou.

The residential buildings included a ceremonial hall, several living quarters and a kitchen. Only the walls have survived to our time. To the east of the living quarters there were two rectangular towers. On the south side was the dungeon, which consisted of two towers. Approaches to the castle from the north were protected by two barbicans. The castle was surrounded by bastions with cannons that could fire on the opposite bank. In the western part there were two round towers of the 15th century with walls about six meters thick, which in the 18th century served as prisons: for women and men.

Coordinates: 47.08612300,-1.28010000

Castle Saint-Loup-sur-Thuet

Château Saint-Loup-sur-Thuet is located in the municipality of Saint-Loup-Lamer in the department of De-Sèvres, France. The castle is a private property, here you can rent rooms like in a hotel.

The first part of the castle was built in the 11th century by Lord Drogo. The second and larger part of the castle belongs to the 17th century; it was restored and completed by representatives of the wealthy noble family Gufier. Château Saint-Aignan is one of the finest examples of this period in France.

In one of the square towers of the castle, dating from the 14th century, there was King John II of France when he was taken prisoner after the Battle of Poitiers. It also housed Edward the Black Prince. The H-shaped building was chosen to honor King Henry IV of France. In the 1980s, the castle of Saint-Loup-sur-Thuet belonged to Jean-Jacques Debue and Chantal Goya.

Coordinates: 46.78996000,-0.16792900

Reo castle

Rheo Castle is one of the Loire Valley castles, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by the Brisone family at the end of the 15th century. Made in the style of the Renaissance and is considered a historical architectural monument. The castle is surrounded by wide meadows and quiet rivers, which are ideal for artists and poets to find a muse, and the structure itself is considered the most elegant and sophisticated of all structures in the valley.

Reo Castle is located in the middle of a small artificial island, around which a wide moat was dug, filled with living water. Built of stone and brick, this is reflected in its two-tone appearance. Today, the chicly decorated castle can be distinguished by the recently appeared galleries dedicated to female legs. The collection of paintings is growing every year and already has about 700 copies.

The castle acquired its name thanks to the next owner, the memoirist Talleman de Reo, who in 1653 persuaded the king to rename the building from “Chuse” to “Le Reo Castle”. Today the owner of the building is the Yukhnytsya family, who organized the picture gallery.

Coordinates: 47.24781900,0.14826700

Petit Toire Castle

Petit Toire Castle is a Renaissance structure located on a charming and fairytale hilltop near the banks of the Vienne River, between Chinon and Fontevraud. Descendants of Aristide Petit Toire, a French naval officer who fought during the American Revolution, created a small museum here dedicated to the adventures of his family members.

Here, on the slope, there are vineyards belonging to the Petit Thouard family. You can have a tasting of sparkling or still wines, and then go on an excursion to the museum. The castle itself, alas, is a private residence, therefore, you can admire it only from the outside. It is made in the classical style, therefore it is devoid of various hyperbolic elements. In general, the structure looks quite harmonious.

Coordinates: 47.18194400,0.10861100

Gien Castle

The castle of Gien was built in the 16th century as an apartment for daughter Anne de Gien on the site of the royal hunting lodge, which led to the organization of a hunting museum in the castle. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and disputes the right to be considered the first Renaissance castle of the Loire Valley. In 1823, it came into the possession of the local authorities and was opened to the public in 1952.

Perpendicular to the main building, another one was added on the east side, which looks towards the river. The facade of the courtyard is decorated with three octagonal towers, where spiral staircases have been added.

Today, the castle of Gien has put together its hunting collection. Visiting the walls of the museum, anyone can see guns, tapestries, as well as paintings and sketches by the French artist Francois Deport. The latter were moved to the great hall, so that only there could be placed all of them. The hall is built of red brick, and along the long walls there are cozy fireplaces and benches, where you can view the entire arsenal of the castle's paintings. In addition, the museum has a collection of 5,000 buttons and fasteners that used to be used on hunting suits.

Coordinates: 47.68497700,2.63167100

Chinon Castle

Chinon Castle, located in the French city of the same name, on the banks of the Vienne River, is one of the royal castles of the Loire Valley. It was built on the site of the former Roman fortifications of the 5th century in the XI-XII centuries. The castle-fortress consists of three parts: in the center you can see the ruins of several churches and partly preserved royal apartments, on the flat side and on the side of the cliff, the main buildings are protected by two forts - Fort Saint-Georges, where excavations are currently underway, and Fort Coudre on the edge of the cliff ...

The castle has passed from hand to hand throughout its history. The most famous of its owners were King Henry II of England, on whose order the eastern part of the castle with a fortress, a mill tower and a chapel was rebuilt, the future King of France Charles VII founded his residence in Chinon in the 15th century. The Duke of Richelieu, to whom Chenon came into ownership in the 17th century, destroyed the throne room and some other buildings in order to rebuild them in a modern style. This caused the floors and ceilings of the castle to collapse. Restoration work has been underway in the castle since 1854. Now you can see the floor in the royal chambers restored according to original drawings and copies of antique furniture in the halls of the castle.

Coordinates: 47.16923200,0.23914800

Montjoffroy castle

Montjoffroy Château, located in the French department of Maine-et-Loire, is considered one of the few castles in the Loire Valley that has preserved medieval interiors. It was built of white sandstone in 1776 in the form of a horseshoe in the Renaissance style with its inherent clear lines, sculptures on the pediments, commissioned by the Marshal of France, the Marquis de Contada, who served under Louis XV.

The interiors of the castle were made by the best craftsmen in the country, as evidenced by the inventory carried out recently. All panels, paintings, trellises are in the same places where they were at the time of the first owner. The local residents, who respected the Marquis de Contada, saved the Montjoffroy castle from the revolutionaries. Until now, the castle belongs to the descendants of the Marquis.

Coordinates: 47.46903700,-0.27638300

Valence castle

Valence Castle, located in the eponymous French commune of the famous Loire Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A fortress was located on the site of a modern castle from the 12th to the 16th century. In 1540, the family of the famous French financier Etampes, who bought these lands, demolished the fortress and built a building of white stone using elements of two styles: Renaissance and Classicism. The building is a powerful square tower surrounded by two-storey turrets with ornate windows, a covered parapet and a mezzanine. The main building is connected by galleries with two western and one eastern towers on the sides.

The most famous owners of the Valence castle is considered the Minister of Foreign Affairs under Napoleon Bonaparte - Charles-Maurice de Talleyrand, Prince of Benevent, who tastefully arranged the interiors of the castle, acquired by him in 1803, in the Empire style with vaulted enfilades painted by the best French artists of that time. For more than 150 years, Valance Castle belonged to the descendants of Talleyrand. During the Second World War, one of them managed to save such Louvre treasures as Venus de Milo and Nika of Samothrace from destruction in the estate.

An English-style park was laid out around the castle at the beginning of the 20th century. Here you can see the forest of princes, the Chinese bridge, the Turkish pavilion and a chessboard of 66 flower squares separated by 30 alleys. Since 1979, the castle has been owned by the French Historical Castles Association. A museum of vintage cars is open on the premises, and llamas, peacocks and other exotic animals are walking in the park.

Coordinates: 47.15783000,1.56343200

Gisot Castle

The Château Gizot, located among the forests in the commune of the same name in the French department of Indre-et-Loire, is part of the Loire-Anjou-Touraine National Natural Park. Its history begins in the XIV century, when a defensive fortress was located on the site of the present castle. For three centuries, from 1315 to 1660, the Gisot castle belonged to the du Bellay family, the most famous representative of which is the poet from the poetic Pleiades Joachim du Bellay. Then it was bought by Prince Louis Gabriel de Contades, Marquis of Gisot, whose name the castle now bears.

The castle was rebuilt over several centuries, it bears the imprints of several styles: from the style of the Renaissance to the elements of the Renaissance. The castle building looks like a labyrinth, consisting of several buildings of different levels. All of them are built of white stone, but their interior is different due to the constant change of owners. Each of them brought something new to the decoration of their home. The Château Gisot has two large art galleries: the Francis I Gallery, which contains paintings from the early 17th century, and the Royal Castle Gallery, on the walls of which you can see paintings from the late 17th century depicting royal palaces and scenes from rural life. The total area of \u200b\u200bthe two galleries is 400 square meters.

The castle park was laid out in 1829 and is a classic picturesque lawn. In 1945, the castle of Gisot was included in the list of architectural monuments of France, which are under the protection of the Ministry of Culture.

Coordinates: 47.39064700,0.20608200

Sarze Castle

Sarze Castle is an imposing medieval fortress consisting of 38 towers and three drawbridges. Numerous furnished rooms retain their historical authenticity. From the top of the towers you can admire the beauty of the surrounding area. Deep moats around the fortress, the chapel and the main hall have now been restored, completing the beauty of this castle.

Initially, in the middle of the 14th century, the castle was a manor house owned by the Barboncois family. It was a knightly family whose sons distinguished themselves in the battles of the Hundred Years War. Barboncois built the castle and owned it until 1720. It should be noted that initially on the site of the castle there was an open area surrounded by a moat and a fence, from which now there is only one chapel tower.

Sarze Castle was located practically on the border of the French kingdom, next to the English possessions of Poitou, Limousin and Aquitaine, therefore it was part of the first line of defense of the kingdom.

By 1440, Jean de Barboncois had built a hall surrounded by five towers, one of which had several floors. All towers were crowned with machicules. Today the palace is one of the most popular and photographed historical and architectural monuments in France.

Coordinates: 46.60027800,1.90638900

Blois Royal Castle

The Royal Castle of Blois was one of the favorite residences of Francis I and Louis XII. This is one of the largest castles in the Loire. It is located on its right bank, in the center of Blois. Along with the rest of the Loire castles, the Royal Castle of Blois is under the protection of UNESCO, as a World Heritage Site.

Its main part was built by the Dukes of Orleans in the 15th century. One of them, who ascended the French throne as Louis XII, remained to live in Blois. His daughter was also attached to this residence and insisted that Francis I, her husband, provide funds for the renovation of the palace in the style of the late Gothic Italian Renaissance.

At the end of the 16th century bloody events unfolded in Blois. Henry III lured into this palace his enemy, Heinrich Giza, along with his brother, where they were both killed, and two weeks later, Catherine de Medici died in the castle. Tourists are usually shown her cache where she kept poisons.

This place keeps many secrets and mystical stories.

Coordinates: 47.58564300,1.33091200

Montreuil-Bellay Castle

Montreuil-Bellay Castle is a historic building in Montreuil-Bellay, Maine et Loire department, France. The castle was built on the site of a Gallo-Roman village on a high hill, on the banks of the Thouet River.

In the Middle Ages, the Montreuil-Bellay site, covering more than 1,000 acres, was part of a group of 32 neighboring villages that made up the "Leju" area.

The feudal estate of Montreuil-Bellay first belonged to Geldua of Denmark, then Berle the Old passed on to the royal heritage, who became the first Sir Bellay. In 1025 the castle was captured by Fulk Nerra, who made Giraud Berle his vassal in the second half of the 12th century.

After the defeat of the British, the feudal estate was returned to the descendant of the Berle the Old family, Guillaume de Melin. After that, the estate underwent many reconstructions, high massive structures and walls with 13 towers appeared, as well as an entrance through a fortified lock. The name of the castle was Anglicized from Berle to Bella.

In 1822, the building was purchased by the businessman Adrien Nivlu from Saumur, who divided the huge plot into smaller ones and rented them out. In 1860, several of the rooms here were restored in the troubadour style.

Coordinates: 47.13324600,-0.15397300

Ange Castle

The ancient fortress is a symbol of the city of Ange and its central landmark. The original fortress appeared here in the XI century on the site of the ancient Galo-Roman fortifications at the direction of the Count of Anjou Fulk III Nerra. Then, in 1228-1238, King Louis IX significantly strengthens the fortress and rebuilds it, creating a classic fortification that can repel almost any attack. In those days, the main potential enemy was the Dukes of Breton. The castle was built on the high bank of the river and fortified with 17 towers about 30 meters high. In 1485, under Louis XI, a moat was dug around the fortress, filled with water.

In the 15th century, Angers became the residence of Rene - Count of Anjou and Provence, King of Naples and Sicily, popularly nicknamed "René the Good". This nickname was given to the count for his services in the field of literature, poetry, construction. He was prized for his patronage of the poor and oppressed, and for his love of holidays and knightly tournaments.

Coordinates: 47.46992200,0.55959500

Cheverny Castle

Château de Cheverny, located in the city of the same name in the French department of Loire et Cher, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The construction of the castle from 1624 to 1650 was directed by the famous architect Jacques Bougier. This medieval building in the late Renaissance style of white stone with high windows, symmetrical lines and bas-reliefs on the facade is still the private property of the Yuro family, descendants of Philippe Huro, on whose order it was built.

Since 1914, the Cheverny castle has been open for free visits to tourists, but it continues to be the residence of a large family, which is reminded by several modern photographs in one of the halls, the interior of which has remained intact since the construction itself. Everything here reminds of the 17th century - furniture, portraits of the owners of the castle, painted by the best painters of France, elements of the decor of the premises. Cheverny Castle is currently serving as a medieval museum. On its territory there is a kennel famous for the whole district, the inhabitants of which do not sit idle, since the owners often arrange hounds in the nearby forests.

Coordinates: 47.50017000,1.45791700

Verreri Castle

Verreri Castle is one of the castles built by the descendants of John Stewart. The building received this name at the end of the 15th century, since a glass factory was located in its place, which means Verrerie in French. It is made in the style of the Renaissance, its windows overlook the forest and meadow landscapes. Now the castle is in the possession of the Vogue family and is one of the must-see points of the excursion route along the Loire Valley.

Throughout history, the land and the castle passed to different owners: John Stewart, Duchess of Portsmouth Louise-René de Keroual and, finally, the Vogue family, who received it in 1840. The latter carried out major restoration work on the building in the 19th century, which made the castle not only elegant in appearance, but also exquisite interior decorations.

The highlight of the castle is the chapel, the walls of which are painted with images of the apostles and martyrs. Its vault is decorated with medallions of the Stuart family. After the restoration, a portrait of one of the representatives of the Vogue family, who made a great contribution to the historic castle, also appeared on the walls of the chapel. Dreamy nature spreads around the structure. Everything that surrounds it is forest and meadows.

Coordinates: 47.42317900,2.52198500

Blaine Castle

Blaine Castle or Gréle Castle is a medieval fortress located in the municipality of Blaine, Loire-Atlantique. The castle is located on the edge of the Nantes Canal to Brest. The castle was built in the thirteenth century, and in the sixteenth century it was greatly changed with the help of reconstruction. Blaine Castle is a Historic Site. The first castle was built by order of Alain Fergan IV, Duke of Brittany, in 1108. Later, the fortress fell into the Clissons family through a dynastic marriage.

The architecture of the castle resembles the defenses of the Middle Ages. Previously, it had twelve towers and occupied an area of \u200b\u200babout four hectares. By order of Cardinal Richelieu, part of the castle was dismantled in 1628, but the ruins leave an indelible impression: a tower, a bridge over a moat, an iron horse protecting a bridge, Renaissance dormers with high peaks, gargoyles and brick fireplaces with bizarre designs.

The castle suffered especially serious damage during the French Revolution, when its premises were used as barracks and prisons. From the chapel, built in the sixteenth century, only the crypt remains. In 1918, the writer Marie Bonaparte took over the castle and completely rebuilt the north wing.

Since 1977, Blaine Castle has been purchased by the state. Now there is a fresco workshop, and the first floor of the castle is occupied by a restaurant.

Coordinates: 47.46651300,-1.76431400

Castle Saint-Aignan

Saint-Aignan Castle is one of the monumental architectural structures located in the Loire Valley in France. It sits on a cliff above the Cher River in Saint-Aignan, a municipality of France, Loire et Cher. The municipality is located at a distance of about 195 kilometers from Paris.

Château Saint-Aignan looks impressive. Now it is a private property, the castle is a residential area, but the public has the right to enter the courtyard to view the building from all sides. There are currently no excursions to the inner halls of the castle.

This is a typical Renaissance building, built in the 16th century on the ruins of a medieval castle that was formerly on the territory of Saint-Aignan. Some of the walls of the old fortress are still preserved, and anyone can look at them.

Coordinates: 47.26944400,1.37416700

Montpoupon castle

Montpoupon Castle, located in the center of the forest in the French department of Indre-et-Loire and built in the Romanesque style of sandstone and stone, has been protected by the country's Ministry of Culture as a historical monument since 1930.

The first building on this site was built in the 12th century. Over the course of several centuries, the castle, which is a strategic fortress, was rebuilt several times. In the XIV-XVII centuries, it belonged to the Priet family and was modernized. It was at that time that the gate fort, the western tower, a free-standing donjon with a steep parapet were built, and the inner chambers with high ceilings were built. During the Great French Revolution, all the fortress walls, except for the front one, were demolished.

Since the middle of the 19th century, the castle has been owned by the Motte Saint-Pierre family. In the outbuildings of the 19th century, the Hunting Museum was opened, the collection of which is dedicated to amateur hunting. The expositions of several pavilions acquaint visitors with forestry and animal husbandry developed in this region of the country.

Coordinates: 47.25295700,1.14121000

Chamerol castle

Chamerole Castle is an architectural building located in the Orleans forests, close to streams and lakes. Made in the style of Louis XII with two-tone brickwork, three wings, towers that adorn the walls. All this is presented in a symmetrical quadrangular form. The castle is famous for its perfume museum and its green, enchanting Renaissance park.

A wide moat, filled with water, has been dug around the Chamerole castle, through which a stone bridge leads to the central entrance. In the left wing there is a gallery that has a certain resemblance to the gallery of Blois castle. On the right is a museum of the history of perfume creation. In the latter, the visitor will be able to view every stage of the creation of new perfumes, from the 15th century to the present day. The exposition of the museum contains both female and male perfumes.

The park, located on the territory of the castle, grows a wide variety of medicinal and aromatic plants, as well as rare boxwood. Green labyrinths of bushes attract even young visitors, and the view from the windows attracts all couples in love.

Coordinates: 48.06027000,2.16409200

Carey Castle

Castle Carey is a French fortified mansion in Guérande, Loire-Atlantis. Built in the XIV century, and expanded in the XV-XVI centuries. Initially, it served as a protective function, as evidenced by the jagged curtain. The castle was a place of worship for Protestants in this area. Carey Castle boasts a tumultuous history. Traces of the religious wars of the 15th century are still visible on it, and since it was owned by Protestants, it was repeatedly subjected to crushed attacks from the Catholic League. And in 1699, the castle finally passed into the hands of Catholics.

From the medieval military architecture there are some details that can be studied - the defensive belt of the walls, the remains of a moat. Sculptural decorations typical of the architecture of that time remained from the Renaissance. In general, the Castle of Carey is considered a typical example of the Breton architectural Renaissance.

Today, the Castle of Carey is known in France for its innovative approach to the field of tourism services. It organizes the following activities and entertainment: the classic tour of the castle, the excursion "Ah, what an adventure!", Which includes the performance of fencers, a walk around the castle by candlelight. You can also spend your child's birthday here. The owner will take the children through the castle filled with surprises, show sword fighting, and arrange a feast in one of the castle halls. Themed tours for adults on military and historical topics are especially popular.

Coordinates: 47.29871800,-2.39798100

Montrichard Castle

Montrichard Castle is a dilapidated 11th century castle located in the heart of the municipality of Montrichard, Loire-et-Chard department, France. Despite the fact that the castle is partially destroyed, it still attracts tourists from all over the world.

The castle is the property of the municipality, since 1877 it has been included in the list of historical monuments in France. The castle now houses a museum, which houses various exhibits from rare coins to vehicles of the time.

Montrichard Castle was built by Fulk Nerra, Count of Anjou, and in the second half of the 12th century was ravaged by numerous wars between the kings of England and France. By order of Henry IV, the building was dismantled in 1589. The upper terrace of the castle offers a beautiful view of the city of Montrichard and the Cher valley.

Coordinates: 47.34361100,1.18611100

Chambord castle

Chambord Castle is the largest palace complex in the Loire Valley. Its length is 160 meters, height - 56. The building contains 426 rooms and 90 of them are currently open to visitors. The castle is located on the territory of a huge park of Paris with an area of \u200b\u200b5,440 hectares and is surrounded by a wall 32 kilometers long.

The idea to build the castle belonged to King Francis the First, and construction began in 1519. In order to make the castle special, the king wanted to change the course of the Loire River. Chambord is rightfully considered the most famous castle among the wide variety of castles in this valley. This building is striking in its sophistication and splendor. You will have to spend more than one hour on a tour here.

From the very gates to the spiers, this Renaissance masterpiece impresses with its size and grandeur. Before the construction of Versailles, Chambord was considered the most extravagant and most beautiful castle in France. The park around the castle is more like a forest. Until now, the local nobility periodically arranges hunting in these places.

Coordinates: 47.61608700,1.51726600

Mott Glane Castle

Castles are one of the main attractions of the Loire Valley. There are more than 40 of them. They are superbly preserved witnesses of French history.

Mott-Glane Castle was built at the beginning of the fifteenth century in the city of La Chapelle-Glen by Pierre de Rohan. As with the overwhelming majority of medieval castles, its primary concern was its protective function. In the seventeenth century, the heirs of the first owner of the castle significantly rebuilt it, and it began to look more like a residential estate.

The castle consists of a pavilion, which was built surrounded by two round towers. One of the towers had a storeroom, while the other was intended for a press. The majestic residential building, whose windows are decorated with sculptures of the Renaissance of the fifteenth century, delights tourists with its original appearance. And in the chapel there were frescoes of the sixteenth century. The castle is a fine example of late fifteenth century architecture. Everything at Mott Glane is built from local materials. The castle represents the grandeur of the Renaissance.

Some parts of the castle have been classified as a Historical Monument since July 6, 1929.

Coordinates: 47.60753700,-1.19253200

Le Reo Castle

Château Le Reo, located in the French village of Chouze-sur-Loire, among the vineyards of the Loire Valley, was built in the 15th-16th centuries by the Brisson family in the Renaissance style. The beautiful building, consisting of several peaked turrets connected to each other, is built of white and gray bricks, laid out in a checkerboard pattern, which gives it a certain fabulousness.

Le Reo Castle got its name from one of the owners, the famous French memoirist Talleman de Reo, the author of "Entertaining stories" from the court life during the reign of King Henry IV. Reo acquired it in the 17th century and asked the king to name the castle.

The fairytale castle is surrounded by gardens that are about ten acres. The romantic setting of the castle attracts tourists from all over the world, who can stay in a small hotel located in several rooms of the castle. Since 2005, Le Reo has been owned by a Ukrainian businessman who continues and expands the hotel business.

Coordinates: 47.24780500,0.14805600

Dunois castle

Dunois Castle, located in the small town of Beaugency in the center of France, was built of gray stone in the Romanesque style in 1440 with characteristic loopholes, a watchtower and a tower surrounded by arches of the same shape and size, which rest on columns or pillars. It was built by order of Jean de Dunois, a famous military leader during the Hundred Years War, who fought hand in hand with Jeanne d'Arc. He married Marie d'Arcourt, became a lord of the city of Beaugency and the castle was his residence for about 20 years.

For 3 centuries, the castle, until the aristocratic families were persecuted after the revolution, was the possession of the descendants of Jean de Dunois. Then the homeless lived here in a shelter created by the local authorities, the sick were treated in a sanatorium, and now the castle houses the "Regional Museum of Arts and Traditions of Orleans", on three floors of which there is a collection of exhibits characterizing the life and customs of the inhabitants of Beaugency and located in 20 some kilometers from here Orleans.

In the museum you can also get acquainted with the life and work of the founder of mass literature - the writer Eugene Sue. The medieval interior has survived only on the second floor in the main part of the building.

Coordinates: 47.77775500,1.63344300

Chaumont-sur-Loire castle

The history of Chaumont-sur-Loire dates back to the 15th century, when the first wooden castle was built on this site, which, however, did not last long, since its owner Pierre d'Amboise had the imprudence to fall into the disfavor of King Louis XI, who in the edification of the rest demolished this castle in 1465. The owner of the castle decided that even such an unpleasant act of the king could play into his hands, and began at the same place the construction of a new stone citadel, surrounded on each side by high rounded towers. Did Pierre d'Amboise manage to establish relations with Louis XI during the construction of the new castle, or did the stonework turn out to be stronger than the previous one, but only Chaumont-sur-Loire has survived to our times, and after restoration work this castle looks just perfect. In the 16th century, this palace was bought by Catherine de Medici herself, and the room where she lived is still accessible to the eyes of visitors.

Coordinates: 47.47916700,1.18194400

Laura's castle

Loire Castles are one of the main attractions of the Loire Valley. The Loire divides France into the south and north. The French kings, falling in love with the area for its climate and landscape, turned the Loire Valley into

the heart of the kingdom in the 15th - 16th centuries. Before turning into luxurious palaces of the French court, the future masterpieces of the Renaissance were only defensive in nature.

Each of the 40 castles is important in its own way: the walls of some castles received high-ranking guests, others saw the life and death of great people, others witnessed the signing of important documents, the fourth did not see anything, but they are just as stunningly beautiful.

The most famous castles of the Loire Valley: Fontainebleau, Chaumont-upon-Loire, Beauregard, Brassier, Valencay, Chaverny, Meilland, Ouss, Sully, Chenonceau, Monsoreau, Angers, Chinon, Langeais, Le Lude, La Flèche, Chambord, Pons, Aza Le Rideau, Luyn, Aza Le Ferron, Loches, Montresor, Blois, La Breteche, Vitre, Le Rocher, Brissac, Montreuil-Bellay, Amboise, Ouaron, Chateaubriand, Gulen and Laval

The extraordinary energy of the Middle Ages, fabulous excursions to the adjacent villages, delicious French cuisine make a trip to the Loire Castles attractive for both tourists and locals

Coordinates: 47.89424800,-0.26550300

Aze-le-Rideau castle

The Azay-le-Rideau castle, located in the commune of the same name in the French department of Indre-et-Loire, is considered a masterpiece of the French Renaissance. The first fortress on the site of the castle was built in the XII century and was an important defensive structure on the Indre River. The fortress was destroyed in 1418 by the army of the future King Charles VII for the insult inflicted on him by the owner of the castle, the Duke of Burgundy. The modern castle was built in 1510 by the new owner, treasurer of King Francis I, Gilles Verthelot.

The facades of the castle are divided by friezes and pilasters and are decorated with pediments. The building of gray stone is crowned with pointed turrets. The building is decorated with an Italian-style staircase with straight flights, three loggias and magnificent decorations. The interiors of the castle, which have survived to this day, are richly decorated with sculptures, Flemish tapestries, antique furniture and portraits of royalty. All of this has been open to the public since 1905, when the castle was acquired by the French government.

Coordinates: 47.25901800,0.46574100

Villandry Castle

Villandry Castle is one of the selected castles of Laura, it was built in the middle of the 16th century by order of Jean le Breton, secretary of Francis I, a native of Scotland. Made in the Renaissance style, in the shape of the letter P, surrounded by wide gardens and a donjon. The interior decoration of the castle was completed in the 18th century. On July 4, 1189, this historic building hosted a meeting between King Phillip Augustus of France and King Henry II of England Plantagenet, which ended with the signing of a peace treaty in favor of France.

Unlike all other castles in France, the elegant Villandry Castle represents Renaissance architecture. Beautiful wide windows with pilasters and capitals, dormer windows with currencies and tympanes, a slight asymmetry of the façade, galleries of arcades - everything reminded of the Renaissance era.

In 1754, the building was transferred to the Marquis de Castellane. The latter wanted to transform the castle, adapting to the modern tastes of the time, as a result of which arches and balconies were installed, and walls were laid in place of the colonnades for arranging the kitchen and additional corridors. Already in 1906, the new owner of the building returned the original appearance to the Villandry castle, which has survived to this day.

Coordinates: 47.34061800,0.51449100

Wilsaven castle

Vilsaven Castle is one of the Loire Valley castles, built in 1537 by order of Jean le Breton, secretary of Francis I. French and Italian architects worked on the creation of the structure, on whose account the royal castle of Chambord. Made in the style of the harmonious Renaissance. Now it is owned by a private person, but excursions around the territory and inside the structure are allowed. Visitors can learn more about the history of royal weddings at the respective Wedding Museum.

From the outside, Vilsaven Castle resembles an Italian Renaissance villa. In front of the building is a Florentine bowl made of Carrara marble. The entire structure is divided into a central residential building and two pavilions. One of the latter houses a historic chapel, which at one time, namely in 1611, was visited by Queen Catherine de 'Medici.

The wedding museum contains about one and a half thousand exhibits dedicated to the celebration of this event, from 1840 to the twentieth century. In addition to it, the Wilsaven Castle houses a museum of children's cars and horse-drawn cars.

Coordinates: 47.54645200,1.51452500

Chateaubriand Castle

The ancient feudal fortress of Chateaubriand, whose name consists of two words - "chateau", which means the castle, and "briand" - the family name of its original owner, was built by the Governor of Brittany Jean de Laval, who lived during the reign of King Francis I. There is an inscription on the colonnade that dates the completion of construction - 1538.

Chateau de Chateaubriand is a medieval castle, heavily modified during the Renaissance, located in the Loire Atlantique. The original castle was founded in the 11th century on the eastern border of Brittany and served as a fortress. During various wars, it was partially destroyed; it acquired its final appearance only in the 16th century, when a new Renaissance palace was built. After the French Revolution, the castle was sold several times, turned into premises for the court, police, and an administrative center. After 1970, all these offices were closed, and the castle was partially open to visitors.

A chilling legend is associated with this castle. As she says, the mistress of Francis the First Countess of Chateaubriand was brutally murdered in the castle by her jealous and old husband. A lot of tourists, those who love mysticism and tickle their nerves, arrive at the castle on the night of October 16-17, the day of the countess's death, to watch from nearby houses through the windows how the countess's ghost wanders around the castle with a candle in her hands.

Coordinates: 47.71995400,-1.37288300

Chateau de Brese castle

Château de Brese is a magnificent and luxurious castle, founded in the 16th century. The construction of the castle was carried out over 3 centuries, and therefore an elegant architectural mixture of styles is clearly observed in the appearance of the palace, but the Renaissance style prevails.

Chateau de Brese is a real pearl of the Loire Valley, is the private property of John Colbert, a descendant of the de Colbert dynasty. The highlight of the castle is its striking underground catacombs, carved out of rock, not inferior in size to the castle itself.

The underground premises were discovered only at the beginning of the XXI century, respectively, no one used them, and therefore they are perfectly preserved.

Also noteworthy is the deepest moat in Western Europe surrounding the castle. Every year the festival-tasting of natural wine "La Dive Bouteille" is organized here. Also in the castle guided tours are organized, an exciting game for adults and children "Treasure hunt" is organized.

Coordinates: 47.17444400,-0.05750000

Yusse Castle

In 1485 the castle for 40,000 golden crowns passed into the ownership of the d'Epinay family and the new owners made their own corrections in the construction and layout of the castle. They removed the western wing, which obscured the view of the Loire, built an Italian drawing room and furnished the royal chambers. But this castle went down in history as a place where none of the French kings stayed, although the royal chambers were ready to receive them at any moment.

Today this castle almost completely preserves the atmosphere of the time in which it was built. Artifacts from that period have been preserved in many rooms. The royal bedroom is still furnished in the Gothic style of the 13th century, and all the furniture in the castle is a rarity and has great historical value.

As it should be, there is a small park in front of the castle, which still retains its original layout. The castle has its own small chapel, garden, and to get to the castle you need to cross a small stone bridge over the Indre River.

Coordinates: 47.24972200,0.29111100

Castle Lavout Polignac

Lavout-Polignac Castle, located in the famous French Loire Valley, on the banks of the Loire River, is considered one of the most ancient castles in France. This imposing building of gray volcanic stone was built around the 12th century as a defensive fortress, which is reminiscent of the shape of the loopholes and the place where it is located - on a high river bank among bushes and forests.

In the 18th century, the famous French statesman, Viscount de Polignac, acquired the castle of Lavout-Polignac; his mother, the Duchess de Polignac, who was close to Queen Marie Antoinette, lived here. By his order, the castle, named after him, was rebuilt in the Renaissance style, but the main part of the building still recalls the times when it served to protect the country.

In the castle you can see Renaissance fireplaces, tapestries from the time of the first owner. The terraces on the first floor, located 45 meters above the Loire River, offer a beautiful view of the coastal area, where sheep graze peacefully and river herons roam. The castle still belongs to the descendants of the Viscount de Polignac.

Coordinates: 45.11749800,3.89435500

Ge-Pean Castle

Gué-Péan Castle is one of the finest examples of Loire Valley castles. It is located in a small wooded valley, its architecture tells about 2,000 years of history: first there was a Roman camp on this site, then a medieval fortress, from which a stone bridge and several nearby moats remained. During the Renaissance, Ge-Pean turned into a full-fledged castle.

The most beautiful and elegant decorations can be seen in the high tower with a tiled roof, made in the form of a bell, called the Imperial tower. In the castle, you can admire the vaulted galleries and magnificent pilasters on the windows.

Inside the castle there is a chapel, a library and rooms, one of which houses a beautiful fireplace, created by the French sculptor Germain Pilon, whose residence is the famous palace. There is also a room that houses a scale model of the castle.

Coordinates: 47.34972200,1.31833300

Gulen Castle

Not far from the town of Haute-Gullen there is a castle of the 16th century, which represents the entire splendid series of castles of the Loire Valley - the Castle of Gulen. And although it belongs geographically to Brittany, outwardly it differs from the castles of this province. Here, granite has been replaced by limestone, and there are a lot of decorative architectural structures. The castle was not destroyed and plundered during the French Revolution, because from the time of its creation it belonged to almost the same family. Therefore, not only architectural buildings have been preserved, but even furniture and interiors.

The castle was founded even before the thousandth year of our era, but most of the building was built at the end of the 15th century. In 1788, the Marquis de Gulen was forced to sell the castle with all its vineyards and winery to a certain Dutch banker. The Gulen family regained control of the castle only in 1858.

Of particular interest in the Gulen castle is the architectural design of the castle. The reception rooms on the upper floors of the castle are decorated with an incredible luxury that is undoubtedly unique to the Loire Valley. The castle houses the famous "tropical butterfly house". In the huge greenhouse, thousands of magnificent tropical butterflies fly freely around the visitors. And all this is surrounded by rare plants. The unique vaulted cellar, built over a thousand years ago, deserves special attention.

And today, as well as many centuries ago, the Gulen family is one of the most ancient families involved in wine production. The Gulen Castle winery is a historical monument and is considered one of the oldest in the world.

Coordinates: 47.20420500,-1.40358900

Loire Valley landmarks

Among the sights of France, the area in the Loire Valley is very popular among tourists. There is a whole complex of castles and palace structures built during the Renaissance. A huge area of \u200b\u200b800 km2 was named the Loire Valley, after the name of the river. Monuments of French architecture amaze travelers with a variety of styles and majesty of buildings.

10 Loire Castles - History Attractions

The close location to the French capital - Paris, attracted kings and aristocrats to the Loire Valley. The courtiers who accompanied the head of state everywhere also acquired luxury real estate here. Thus, about 300 castles were erected in the region, which are now accessible to tourists from all over the world.

Loire Valley France

Each of the castles is a real work of architectural art, but even a week is not enough to visit all of them. Therefore, tourists stop their eyes at the 10 most popular, outstanding among the rest of the castles. They are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

How to get to the Loire castles in France

The easiest option is to book an excursion to the Loire castles from Paris. A visit to 3-4 castles is calculated for 1 day, it will cost a tourist 130-150 euros *. The advantage of an excursion tour is a precisely adjusted route, immersion in history with the help of a guide.

Loire Castles France

You can get there on your own by taking a train heading to the nearest city from the desired castle in Paris or Nice. Buses also supervise the excursion routes.

Loire castles on the map of France and the Loire river valley

Chambord Castle France

The construction of this castle is associated with the name of the French king, Francis I. For its construction, he used a construction project drawn up by Leonardo da Vinci himself. Over the centuries, the castle has become a favorite royal residence.

The historical monument is open to tourists at any time of the year. The ticket will cost 11 euros per person. The entrance is open from 9:00 to 17:00.

Of all the attractions of the Loire Valley, Chambord Castle is the most famous. And for good reason. It has over 400 rooms and a vast forest park used in the past for the hunting of kings and nobles. Getting into the territory of the castle, it may seem that this is a whole old city living its own life.

On the adjacent territory, there are several additional attractions for tourists:

• A boat trip along the canal will cost 14 euros per person.
• Equestrian show. You can see him only for 5 months: from May to September. The cost of admission is 9.5 euros per adult and 7 euros per child.
• Night light show. From 9 to 11 pm, an amazing show begins on the castle grounds, combining the play of light and musical accompaniment. It will cost 13 euros per ticket.

Chateau de Chenonceau castle

Experienced tourists have laid out the cheapest route along which you can get to the attraction on your own. From Paris, take a bus to Tours. A ticket costs between 8 and 16 euros. Arriving at your destination, you need to take a train to Chenonceau, a ticket for which costs 14 euros.

The entrance to the territory of the castle will cost the same, for children and adults -10 euros. Children up to 7 years old are free. The visiting schedule is floating, it changes depending on the season. In summer, it is open from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm. During the cold season, from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Chenonceau is located on the purest river, with flower gardens around and at the entrance. The inner chambers are striking in splendor.

On the territory of the complex there is a souvenir boutique with tourist accessories, prints, jewelry.

Blois Castle

The huge building combines late Gothic and Renaissance styles. Many royal dynasties, eminent noble families, take only the Medici and Orleans, are associated with its history.

You can get to the castle on your own by train. In Paris, you need to take the Austerlitz train station, the ticket costs 11 euros. They get off at the Blois stop and after 9 minutes they are already at the sight.

By car, take the RN 152 highway, stopping at Blois station.

The entrance to the territory of the royal building will cost 8.5 euros per adult, 4 euros per child. Children under 6 years old are admitted free.

Castle Amboise

Passing from one French ruler to another, Amboise is most famous for the residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Here is his burial. During the revolution, most of the building was destroyed. After restoration and repair, tourists can see only its 10th part.

Entrance to the territory of the attraction will cost 12 euros for an adult, 7.5 euros for a child over 7 years old.

Azay-le-Rideau castle

The building erected on the skeleton played the role of a fortress in the past. She had to defend Tur from military incursions. In modern times, Azay-le-Rideau is surrounded by a traditional English park, and a museum is located in the chambers.

Entrance prices:

• Adult ticket - 6.5 euros.
• Children under 18 are admitted free of charge.

Yuse Castle

The building combines different architectural styles: Renaissance, Classicism, Gothic elements. A distinctive highlight of the historical monument is its gardens, they are the most beautiful in the entire Loire Valley in France.

Yuse is open from 10:00 to 18:00 (19:00 from March to September). Children under 8 years old can visit it for free. For adults, the ticket will cost 14 euros

Sully-sur-Loire castle

The building is located in the center of the Loire department. The structure has survived several fires, has undergone restructuring and changes. In the inner chambers, visitors can see a large collection of tapestries and paintings. The castle grounds are surrounded by a water channel.

Price for tickets:

• Adult - 8 euros.
• Child 5 euros.

Sully-sur-Loire

Syumor castle

The medieval fortress offers stunning views of the Loire Valley in France. There is no traditional luxury in the inner chambers; instead, there is an arsenal of weapons to defend the city. Famous vineyards stretch in the area. In the full sense, winemaking is not practiced there; rather, it is a way to attract tourists. However, it is definitely worth having a few tastings and trying the local French wine.

The attraction is open only in summer. Entrance for children under 7 years old is free, for adults it will cost 6-7 euros (for October 2018).

Clos-Lusset Castle

A modest small building attracts visitors with one fact - Leonardo da Vinci lived here. Within these walls, he finished painting his famous painting "La Gioconda". A dovecote, a small chapel of Queen Anne of Breton, adjoins the white and rose building.

On the territory of the park adjacent to the castle, you can see the master's paintings, inventions of Leonardo da Vinci, created according to his drawings.

Ticket price:

• Adults - 14 euros.
• Children - 10 euros.

Clos-Lusset

Brissac palace

The magnificent building, built in the 11th century by the Count of Anjou, is associated with the legend of a ghost living within its walls - a lady in a green dress. This is Charlotte of France, convicted of infidelity and killed by her husband in the 15th century. The owners of the building, the de Brissac family, are not surprised by the ghost, but it attracts tourists from all over the world.

The castle can rightfully be called a palace, it is the tallest in the Loire Valley, consists of 7 floors. The interiors include antique furniture, tapestries, decorative ceilings and wall paintings.

During the excursion, tourists are offered to taste wine, because the most famous wine-making of the Valley is located here. Tasting is included in the admission ticket price. For adults it will cost 10 euros, for children 4.5 euros. Up to 8 years old admission is free.

Interesting to know! Most of the Loire's castles are owned by private individuals who have opened up access for tourists to visit them. This is due to the wealth tax in France, which is significantly reduced with such charity.

• The main cities to which people get from Paris to see the largest number of Loire castles are Blois and Tours. They get to them by train, bus. Buses leave only on weekdays, excluding summer time.
• An independent trip instead of a guided tour will cost at least half the price. To find out the history of each attraction, you can purchase an audio guide at the entrance in any desired language, including Russian. It will cost from 2 to 5 euros.
• The price for excursions from Russian tour operators is much more expensive than from French ones. Except for hot voucher discounts.
• On the territory of most castles there are hotels, rooms in which can be booked on the website, in advance. Prices are relatively high, at least 50-90 euros per night.

Located on the Atlantic coast, the Loire is famous for its silk sand, golf courses and a unique atmosphere. However, the Loire Valley (France) is a real business card.

* Prices are valid for October 2018.