Château de Chambord

Château de Beauregard is one of the best places to visit in Cellettes for travellers intrigued by Renaissance art, noble history, and elegant garden design. Tucked away between Blois and Cheverny, this refined estate offers a quieter, more intimate château experience while still boasting one of the Loire Valley's most extraordinary interiors. Its harmonious architecture and famously rich portrait gallery make it a standout among the region's many noble residences.

Surrounded by a peaceful park and a series of themed garden rooms, the château is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Cellettes, particularly for visitors seeking cultural depth without the crowds of larger Loire châteaux. Beauregard’s blend of artistic heritage and natural beauty creates an atmosphere that feels both grand and welcoming.

History and Significance of Château de Beauregard

Constructed in the late 15th century, Château de Beauregard gained prominence in 1545 when Jean du Thier, Secretary of State to Henri II, purchased the estate. Du Thier transformed the property with Renaissance flourishes, commissioning Italian-style fireplaces, frescoes, and a gallery that spoke to the artistic tastes of the French court.

Its most celebrated addition came under Paul Ardier, who acquired the château in 1617. Ardier commissioned the Galerie des Illustres - a monumental portrait gallery that remains Beauregard’s greatest treasure. Stretching 26 meters, the gallery contains 327 portraits of influential figures spanning more than three centuries, drawing from royal courts, diplomatic circles, and military ranks across 26 nations. The Delftware tile floor, made up of 5,500 hand-painted pieces, and the lapis lazuli ceiling give the room a richness that rivals Europe’s grandest great halls.

Through wars, revolutions, and centuries of change, the estate has remained a guardian of French artistic heritage, earning its place as one of the Loire Valley’s most culturally significant châteaux.

Things to See and Do in Château de Beauregard

A visit to Beauregard begins with the Galerie des Illustres - not only the château’s centrepiece but one of the Loire Valley’s most memorable interiors. Guests can spend considerable time exploring the portraits, which collectively tell a sweeping story of European politics, identity, and power from the 14th to the 17th centuries.

Beyond the gallery, the château’s Renaissance fireplaces, restored frescoes, and period furnishings create an intimate atmosphere. Interpretation panels provide helpful context about the families who shaped Beauregard over the centuries.

Outside, the park and gardens invite slow, reflective wandering. The twelve themed garden rooms each offer a distinct aesthetic, from sculpted hedges to contemplative spaces framed by flowers, water features, and geometric designs. The wider English-style parkland is perfect for a gentle stroll among mature trees and peaceful pathways.

How to Get There

Château de Beauregard is located in Cellettes, just south of Blois, and is accessible by car from the D956 or via local bus routes from Blois. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you. The nearest train station is Blois-Chambord, with onward connections by taxi or bus to Cellettes. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Practical Tips on Visiting Château de Beauregard

• Best time to visit Château de Beauregard: Spring and early autumn for blooming gardens and pleasant walking weather.
• Entrance fee in Euros: Prices vary for the château, gallery, and gardens.
• Opening hours: Open seasonally; check the official schedule before visiting.
• Official website: chateau-de-beauregard.com
• How long to spend: 1.5-2 hours for château and gardens.
• Accessibility: Some sections have stairs or uneven surfaces; garden paths are mostly accessible.
• Facilities: Small shop, restrooms, and garden seating areas.
• Photography tip: Capture the perspective of the Galerie des Illustres from its far end to show the full suite of portraits.
• Guided-tours: Available at select times or by reservation.
• Nearby food options: Cafés and restaurants in Cellettes and nearby Blois.

Where to Stay close to Château de Beauregard

Staying near Cellettes offers a peaceful base for exploring the Loire Valley. For charming accommodation close to the château, consider Logis Côté Loire, set along the river in historic Blois. Visitors who prefer a countryside retreat may enjoy Les Sources de Cheverny, offering spa facilities and woodland tranquillity. For classic comfort in Blois, Hôtel Anne de Bretagne is a reliable and centrally located option.

Is Château de Beauregard Worth Visiting?

Yes. Château de Beauregard is an exceptional stop for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and garden admirers. Its extraordinary portrait gallery, intimate château atmosphere, and beautiful grounds make it a compelling complement to the grander Loire Valley estates.

FAQs for Visiting Château de Beauregard

Is the Galerie des Illustres original?
Much of it is original, with portraits collected and curated by Paul Ardier in the 17th century.

Can I visit the gardens without entering the château?
Depending on the season, separate garden tickets may be available.

Is the château family-friendly?
Yes, especially the gardens, which offer plenty of outdoor space.

Are the Delftware tiles authentic?
Yes, the 5,500 tiles are original 17th-century Delftware.

Can I take photos inside?
Photography is usually permitted without flash; check on arrival.

Nearby Attractions to Château de Beauregard

• Château de Blois: A royal residence showcasing four centuries of architecture.
• Château de Cheverny: A beautifully preserved 17th-century estate famous for its hounds.
• Château de Troussay: One of the Loire's smallest but most charming châteaux.
• Parc du Château de Beauregard: The extended landscape park ideal for longer walks.
• Maison de la Magie in Blois: A unique museum dedicated to illusion, opposite Blois castle.

The Château de Chambord appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Blois!

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Nearby Attractions

• Château de Beauregard (13.1) km
  Castle
• Château de Cheverny (13.6) km
  Castle
• Maison de la Magie (14.2) km
  Museum
• Château de Blois (14.4) km
  Castle
• Château de Troussay (15.5) km
  Castle
• Château du Clos Lucé (45.6) km
  Castle
• Royal d’Amboise (45.8) km
  Castle
• Château de Chenonceau (46.6) km
  Castle
• Cathédrale Saint-Gatien (66.5) km
  Cathedral
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours (66.5) km
  Museum