Loir-et-Cher is a fairytale department with châteaus reflecting its importance during medieval times. Religious wars and invasions from foreign armies are responsible for many of these defensive castles. Find quaint villages, valleys and vast meadows on a pleasant trip around the region, noting the nuances of individual châteaus.
The city of Blois provides a sense of the region’s culture. It features one of the region’s most prestigious castles, the Château de Blois, which is known as the site where Joan of Arc brought her banner to be blessed. Tour some of the 564 rooms to learn about its intriguing history. See the various art and history installations dotted around the castle. Attend the nearby Muséum d’Histoire Naturelle to see scientific and artistic displays on the region’s natural history.
In Chambord, ride a horse and carriage to the majestic Château de Chambord. Visit the quaint village of Cheverny for its two castles, including the Château de Troussay, which prides itself on being Loire’s smallest castle. Enter the Tintin exhibit in nearby Château de Cheverny, an ideal place for kids to enjoy its dogs, treasure hunts and canal trips.
Witness the spectacular light show at the Gothic Château de Chaumont. The castle participates in the International Garden Festival, showcasing its extraordinary grounds.
Many other charming villages and châteaus are dotted around this picturesque province. Try their local delicacies, such as goat cheese, honey and Tatin cake, made from caramelized apples. The region has cold winters, with occasional snow flurries, and pleasantly hot summers.
The province is in the Loire Valley in central France. Its name comes from two rivers that cross the north and south of the province. Blois is 110 miles (180 kilometers) south of Paris, which should take 2 hours to reach by car. The capital also has the nearest international airport.
The châteaus of Loir-et-Cher are not just fit for a king and queen, but also little princes and princesses, offering games, exhibits, gardens and treasure hunts.
