Châteaux

Known throughout the world for their architectural splendor, romantic glamour and fascinating history, the famous châteaux of France were favorite destination, vacation, and residencies to French royalty throughout the centuries. Centrally located amongst them all, Château Loire provides an ideal start-off point to visit, explore and learn all about France’s other celebrated castles. Highlights include:

Amboise

Favorite childhood residence to many future kings of France.  Discover the maze of underground passageways, towers, and Da Vinci’s tomb, all set in this quaint Loire River town. (29 km from Pontlevoy)

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Blois

Overlooking the beautiful Loire River, and haunted by the memory of its illustrious hosts, including the Counts of Blois, the Dukes of Orleans, the Kings and Queens of France, and several princes in exile. (30 km from Pontlevoy)

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Chambord

The largest castle in the Loire and famous for its towers, terraces, hunting grounds and grand spiral staircase thought to be designed by Leonardo da Vinci. (41 km from Pontlevoy)

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Chenonceau

Built and reflecting its beautiful architecture on the Cher River, Chenonceau owes a large part of its charm and history to the grand dames of France from early 16th century and beyond.  (19 km from Pontlevoy)

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Chaumont

One time residence of Catherine de Medici, who later forced Diane de Poitiers (Henry II's long-term mistress) to exchange it for Chenonceau.  Also home to Jacques-Donatien Le Ray, considered a French "Father of the American Revolution". (13 km from Pontlevoy)

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Cheverny

17th century castle built with the famous white stones of the nearby Bourré quarries and also celebrated for its magnificent hunting hounds. Visitors can view the kennels and watch the dogs being fed every day at 5pm from April to September. (21 km from Pontlevoy)

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Clos Lucé

A jewel of the Renaissance period and home to Leonardo da Vinci, who lived there as guest of Francis I for 3 years until his death in 1519. The château includes a da Vinci museum and is surrounded by a vast and beautiful park highlighted by several of the artist’s famous inventions.

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