Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Blois, France
The historic city of Blois is centrally located within the Loire Valley World Heritage Site, where the rich presence of Renaissance châteaux is undeniable.
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The historic city of Blois is centrally located within the Loire Valley World Heritage Site, where the rich presence of Renaissance châteaux is undeniable.
There is no ambiguity surrounding the popularity of Centre-Val de Loire among travelers. First and foremost, the region boasts breathtaking landscapes, characterized by vineyards that gently descend to the banks of its expansive and legendary river.
The scenery in the Loire Valley changes around every curve. Honey-colored villages give way to lavish castles. Vine-draped fields back onto the lush banks of the Loire, France’s longest river. Moreover, while trains serve each of the region’s main destinations, the best way to explore is by car. This method provides better access to the area’s blissful natural surroundings.
Studded with thousands of castles, old villages, and vineyards, the Loire Valley feels like a step back in time.
Among the storied castles of the Loire Valley, there is a new generation of vintners whose low-intervention wines are redefining old-world style.
The Loire Valley is one of France’s most sought-after destinations, offering a wealth of accommodation options for visitors. If you’re planning your journey to this enchanting region, consider opting for achambre d’hoteor bed and breakfast. Staying in these accommodations provides you with excellent value for money, while also giving you the opportunity to connect with local residents who can share valuable insights about the best sights to see.
The ancient château, originally built at the end of the 10th century, became notorious in the 16th century when it was acquired by Catherine de Medicis, widow of King Henri II in 1560. In a typical act of revenge against Henri’s favorite mistress and her arch-rival, Diane de Poitiers, the owner, she forced Diane to give her Chenonceau, which Catherine and Diane greatly preferred, in exchange for Chaumont.
The Loire Valley châteaux (castles) make this central region one of the most popular destinations in France for visitors, and with good reason. Just two hours from Paris, the mighty river flows slowly through a gorgeous landscape where medieval fortresses and Renaissance palaces are strung out like jewels along the banks. During the Renaissance, François I made Amboise his capital, making it the aristocratic, artistic, and intellectual heart of France. Chambord, the largest of all the châteaux in the Loire Valley, was built by François I as a hunting lodge. Today, the whole valley is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Great Wall of China, and many of the world’s most important places.
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