Visit two châteaus that each have a family-friendly atmosphere. Take boat rides, see a Tintin museum and hunt for treasure.
Cheverny is a quaint village in the Loire Valley famous for its castles with family activities. A little west of the commune is the Château de Troussay, which prides itself on being the smallest of the Loire castles. Peruse the small boutiques and restaurants in the centre, before visiting two very different châteaus.
The highlight of the village is the Château de Cheverny, exceptional for its lack of Renaissance features. Its classical, symmetrical design sets it apart from other Loire châteaus. Stroll through the pleasant grounds and enjoy a picnic on a bench while viewing the majestic castle. Tour the interior for its old-world furnishings and décor.
Let kids participate in the treasure hunt and boat rides along the canal. Take them to the Tintin exhibit in the Secrets of Marlinspike Hall. Watch hounds at feeding time.
The Château de Troussay, a 10-minute car journey west, is famed for its henhouse full of birds from the region. Join an egg hunt with the children and take a fun general knowledge quiz.
This is the humbler of Cheverny’s two châteaus, with its quaint south façade, which has red doors and bell towers with pinnacles. Spot the old-fashioned red wagon near the entrance. Enter to see elegant wooden carvings and aged furniture. This 15th-century site has a rich history of aldermen, lords and noble families. Take a guided tour of the château in English.
The village of Cheverny is 6 miles (10 kilometres) southeast of the charming town of Blois, which has its own castle. It is in the eastern part of the Loire Valley, a vast area in central France renowned for its vineyards and châteaus. The Loire and Beuvron rivers pass to the north.
Cheverny is an ideal old-world holiday for families, offering an enchanting village and kids’ activities in the castle. The region experiences hot summers with a pleasant breeze and mild to cold winters with frost.
