The Loire Valley is located in central France and it is famous for its castles, historic towns and exquisite vineyards. The valley was added by UNESCO on the list of World Heritage sites in 2000. There are more than three hundred castles to visit in the area, many of them being fine examples of medieval French architecture. The most famous castles in the Loire Valley represent the ideals of the Renaissance and the Age of Enlightenment.

The most impressive and largest castle in the Loire Valley is Chambord, which has attracted visitors for centuries. This huge castle has 440 rooms and it is over 18 stories high, being sometimes referred to as the “mathematisation of architecture”. Chambord Castle has a history of over five centuries and has been originally designed as a hunting lodge for King Francois I. The castle is surrounded by the largest hunting domains in the Valley of the Loire.
It is thought that the intricate staircase that leads to the rooftop terrace has been designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

Château Azay le Rideau is a charming smaller castle built in Renaissance style and it is one of the most visited castles Loire. The construction was started by Giles Berthelot in 1518 and after nine years, the castle was confiscated by the king, who accused Berthelot of embezzlement. The most beautifully furnished castle in the Loire Valley is Cheverny Castle, where visitors can discover a fine collection of furniture dating back to the 17th century.

Known as the “Petit Chambord”, Château de Challain was built in Neo-Gothic style in the 19th century and it is nowadays a popular venue for weddings and other social events. The park of the castle is impressive and it offers guests views over an orangery.