Bucket list experience:
Chenonceau is widely known as the ‘ladies’ chateau’, owing to the succession of extraordinary women integral to its history.
Built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet, it was given by Henri II to his mistress, the legendary beauty Diane de Poitiers, before his widow Catherine de Médicis grabbed it back after his death.
It was then inherited by Louise de Lorraine, wife of Henry III, the third son of Catherine of Medicis. After Henry III’s assassination, a traumatised Louise de Lorraine turned to prayer, becoming known as ‘the white lady of Chenonceau’. Last, but not least, it was saved during the French Revolution by then-owner Madame Dupin, who managed to reason with the mob.
The Loire’s most visited chateau can feel overrun, yet remains magical for the sheer ingenuity of its spanning the River Cher, for its fine late Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and for outstanding collections of furniture and art.
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Destination Guide >The nearest station is Saint-Pierre-des-Corps, which is 400m from the ticket office. There is plentiful parking if you are driving.
Guided tours are available in 18 languages, including English. No booking is required. The chateau has a restaurant, a crêperie and tearoom onsite for refreshments.
The chateau is open all year round, seven days a week.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Amboise, Centre-Val de Loire, France[11.6 miles]
An attractive family-friendly hotel, with great staff and a perfect small-town location for exploring the Loire.
Official star rating:
Veuzain-sur-Loire, Centre-Val de Loire, France[21.3 miles]
Uber-romantic hotel in a former hunting lodge, with a spa, outdoor pool & Michelin-starred restaurant.
Official star rating:
Rochecorbon, Centre-Val de Loire, France[24.2 miles]
A cosy hotel just outside of Tours, with luxurious ‘troglodyte’ rooms carved into the neighbouring cliff.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Loire Valley, France
Extraordinary historic chateaux, authentic village life, and superb wine blend in this beautiful UNESCO-listed valley.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Amboise, Centre-Val de Loire, France[9.5 miles]
Hot air balloon flights offer a serene, crowd-free way to appreciate the Loire’s spectacular landscapes and chateaux, as you drift silently above treetops and turrets.
Best for ages: 6+ | £180 | 3 hours
Amboise, Centre-Val de Loire, France[11.2 miles]
Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence reveals fascinating insights into the enigmatic painter, engineer and inventor.
Best for ages: 13+ | £3
Amboise, Centre-Val de Loire, France[18.9 miles]
Weird and wonderful experimental garden festival where conceptual gardens touch urbanism and ecology.
Best for ages: 13+ | £15 | 5 months
