Cycle Tours in Loire Valley

REASONS TO DISCOVER LOIRE VALLEY

Loire Valley Castles

There are about 3000 castles in the area! Here are some of the most remarkable:

• Chateau de Chambord– Originally built as a hunting lodge for Francis I, this structure has withstood the test of time. It is one of the most recognizable châteaux in the world and the largest, by far, in the Loire Valley. The magnificent building boasts several huge towers, 440 rooms, 84 staircases and an incredible 365 fireplaces. It’s surrounded by a park and a game reserve, complete with red deer for hunting purposes. It is certainly a sight to behold.
• Chateau de Chenonceau– Built on the Cher River allowing the chateau’s unique architecture to be reflected in the water is the “Castle of the Lady”. It is nicknamed to honor the different ladies who played a primary role in designing the castle as it stands today, from its exterior appearance to the rooms inside. Renaissance furniture, a vast ensemble of 16th and 17th century tapestries and a great number of masterpieces are a few of the treasures of its visit. 
• Chateau Chinon– Located on the Vienne River, the Chateau de Chinon has housed as well as imprisoned many influential French leaders in the past. It was here that Joan of Arc visited the disguised King Charles VII to convince him to build an army to liberate France from England. The Templar Knights carved symbols while incarcerated in the castle’s dungeon, which can still be seen today. The castle is divided by a dry moat into three parts, Fort Saint-Georges to the east, Château de Milieu in the center, and Fort du Coudray to the west.
• Azay-le-Rideau– Recognized as a French national monument, this castle is one of the earliest French Renaissance chateaux. Azay-le-Rideau is built on an island on the Indre River. Its foundations rise straight out of the water. You do not want to miss visiting this striking structure.