Château de Cheverny, Blois

Castle near Blois

Château de Cheverny is one of the top sights in Cheverny, especially for travellers who want to experience an authentic, beautifully preserved château without the dramatic upheavals that transformed many of its Loire Valley neighbours. Built between 1624 and 1634 in a luminous Louis XIII style, Cheverny has remained in the same family for over six centuries, allowing it to retain a sense of harmony, refinement, and continuity rarely found elsewhere in the region.

Set within landscaped grounds that blend French formality with gentle English influences, the château offers a serene escape into aristocratic life. Its immaculate façade, pristine interiors, and famous pack of hunting hounds make it a highlight of any walking tour of Cheverny, and it stands out as one of the must-see places in Cheverny for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and Tintin fans alike.

History and Significance of Château de Cheverny
Things to See and Do in Château de Cheverny
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting Château de Cheverny
Where to Stay close to Château de Cheverny
Is Château de Cheverny Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Château de Cheverny
Nearby Attractions to Château de Cheverny

History and Significance of Château de Cheverny

Château de Cheverny was commissioned by the Hurault family, an influential noble lineage whose stewardship of the estate extends back more than 600 years. Constructed between 1624 and 1634, the château showcases perfect symmetry and clean classical lines, typical of the Louis XIII architectural style. Its brilliant white Bourré stone façade gives the château a luminous presence, particularly striking in morning and late-afternoon sunlight.

Unlike many Loire Valley châteaux, Cheverny experienced a remarkably peaceful history. It escaped major conflicts, revolutions, and architectural overhauls, allowing it to preserve its original 17th-century character. Inside, guests find an opulent world of period furnishings, tapestries, paintings, and a notable collection of arms and armour that reflects the Hurault family's martial heritage.

Cheverny also holds a special place in modern culture: it inspired Hergé’s fictional Château de Moulinsart (Marlinspike Hall) in the Tintin series, bringing comic enthusiasts from around the world to its doors.

Things to See and Do in Château de Cheverny

Inside the château, visitors can wander through salons adorned with rich fabrics, carved woodwork, ornate fireplaces, and preserved aristocratic décor. Highlights include the Grand Salon, the Dining Room with its gleaming table settings, and the King’s Bedchamber, all showcasing Cheverny’s exceptional state of preservation.

The estate’s gardens offer a delightful contrast of styles. The French formal garden features geometric lines and manicured hedges, while the English-style park invites leisurely strolls beneath towering trees. One of the most distinctive attractions is the kennel housing Cheverny’s famous pack of hunting hounds - a living tradition maintained for centuries.

Tintin fans should not miss the dedicated exhibition that explores Château de Cheverny’s link to Marlinspike Hall through immersive displays and interactive elements.

How to Get There

Château de Cheverny is located in the Loire Valley, south of Blois. Travellers can reach Blois-Chambord station by train and continue by taxi or local bus to Cheverny. 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. Those travelling by car will find well-signposted routes and ample on-site parking. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting Château de Cheverny

Best time to visit Château de Cheverny: Spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures and vibrant gardens.
Entrance fee in Euros: Varies depending on whether you visit the château, gardens, Tintin exhibition, or a combination.
Opening hours: Open daily year-round with seasonal timetable variations.
Official website: chateau-cheverny.fr
How long to spend: 2-3 hours for the château and gardens; longer if exploring the Tintin exhibition.
Accessibility: Good accessibility in most areas, though some upper floors may have limitations.
Facilities: Gift shop, café, restrooms, and a picnic area.
Photography tip: Capture the château’s reflective façade from the garden ponds.
Guided-tours: Audio guides and occasional guided tours available.
Nearby food options: Restaurants and cafés can be found in Cheverny village and nearby Cour-Cheverny.

Where to Stay close to Château de Cheverny

Travellers wanting to stay near Cheverny have excellent options within the surrounding countryside. For a charming rural retreat close to the château, consider Hôtel de la Diligence. For something elegant and relaxing, Relais des Trois Châteaux offers spacious rooms in a stylish village setting. Visitors basing themselves in nearby Blois can opt for Hôtel Anne de Bretagne with easy access to multiple Loire Valley châteaux.

Is Château de Cheverny Worth Visiting?

Yes. Château de Cheverny is one of the Loire Valley's most refined and well-preserved estates. Its harmonious architecture, beautifully curated interiors, peaceful gardens, and rich cultural connections make it an unforgettable stop - perfect for visitors seeking elegance without the crowds often found at larger châteaux.

FAQs for Visiting Château de Cheverny

Is the Tintin exhibition included in the main ticket?
A combined ticket is available, or you can purchase separate entry.

Can you visit the kennels?
Yes, the hounds’ feeding time is especially popular with visitors.

Are the interiors original?
Many furnishings and decorations are authentic and meticulously preserved.

Is photography allowed inside?
Photography without flash is typically permitted; check signs on arrival.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the gardens, hounds, and Tintin exhibition make it family-friendly.

Nearby Attractions to Château de Cheverny

Château de Chambord: The Loire Valley's grandest château, famed for its double-helix staircase.
Château de Blois: A royal residence showcasing four architectural styles.
Château de Beauregard: Known for its Gallery of Portraits.
Maison des Vins de Cheverny: Perfect for sampling local Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny wines.
Château de Troussay: One of the Loire Valley's smallest and most charming privately owned châteaux.

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

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