Explore
the Loire Valley Castles Association
Stephane Bern
SPONSOR OF THE LOIRE VALLEY CHÂTEAUX ASSOCIATION – VALLEY OF THE KINGS
“I have made the most poetic journey imaginable in France; I felt my thoughts swell with this river,” wrote Honoré de Balzac, speaking of the majestic Loire River and this Loire Valley that seems blessed by the gods. This route of beauty, which attracts all eyes and visitors from around the world, is a truly wondrous path, dotted with heritage, architectural, and historical gems, as if sown in the garden of France sung by our poets. Anyone who loves history and heritage, who loves nature and the gentle pace of life, vineyards and sun-drenched tufa stone… will not be able to resist the spell of this enchanting Valley of the Kings.
This royal river is not only the link, the hyphen of all these treasures of our History, it is also the living memory of the genius of French art which was imprinted in stone and gardens when, during the Renaissance, the kings chose to settle there.
Discovering the hundred or so monuments that dot the Loire Valley and even beyond is to delve into the history of France and the stories of those who shaped it over the centuries. It's also a fabulous journey among the most iconic monuments – Blois, Chambord, Amboise, Chenonceau, Chaumont… – but above all, it's the chance to discover more intimate, more touching châteaux, because those who bear the heavy responsibility of maintaining them today have preserved their soul as family homes.
That is why I am happy and proud to be the patron of this beautiful Association Châteaux de la Loire – Vallée des Rois, to continue to honor our history and keep our heritage alive.
LAURENCE BIZARD HAMILTON
PRESIDENT OF THE ASSOCIATION CHÂTEAUX DE LA LOIRE – VALLÉE DES KINGS
Discover a collection unique in the world: the 100 sites of the Association of Loire Valley Castles – Valley of the Kings. These castles and gardens are open to visitors between Gien and Nantes, spanning eleven departments and two regions.
The setting for this open-air collection? The gardens and landscapes of the Centre Val de Loire and Pays de la Loire regions, along the royal river, a jewel of UNESCO World Heritage.
Its history? Or rather its histories… Because backed by the grandeur of French history, the Loire castles are indeed rooted in the era of those who bring them to life today.
This collection is, above all, a heritage treasure of flesh and stone. And beneath the flesh, passion shines through. Ours. Public and private owners, architects, artisans, gardeners, winemakers… We are committed to sharing our love of heritage with you.
Yours. 10 million visitors come to our castles every year with the enthusiasm of discovery and the taste for travel through time… For unforgettable moments to share as a couple, with family or friends.
So imagine your journey with us. Get your maps ready… Set… Go!!!
