Château de Cheverny and Château de Chenonceau in France

Jul 13, 2024 | Europe, France, Historical Building

Pictures of Cheverny and Chenonceau Chateaux in Centre-Val de Loire, France

Château de Cheverny: Av. du Château, 41700 Cheverny, France
Château de Chenonceau: 37150 Chenonceaux, France
Date Picture Taken: April, 2024

The Cheverny and Chenonceau Chateaux tour was part of a day tour that included three Chateaux, including Chambord Chateau.

The Cheverny Chateau was the second Chateau that we visited on the tour.

The Cheverny Chateau was a small Chateau.

It is famous for its classical architecture, well-preserved interiors, and its connection to the Tintin comics.

Dolls and related exhibits are particularly appealing to families with children. By incorporating these elements, Château de Cheverny enhances its appeal as a family-friendly destination, encouraging visits from a wider demographic.

Château de Cheverny was built between 1624 and 1630 by Henri Hurault, a military leader and member of a noble family. It has remained largely unchanged since its construction, providing an excellent example of early 17th-century French architecture.

The château has been owned by the same family for over six centuries, the Hurault family, and it is still privately owned today. It was opened to the public in 1922.

Cheverny is renowned for its lavishly decorated interiors, including fine furniture, tapestries, paintings, and a remarkable collection of antiques. The Grand Salon, the Arms Room, and the King’s Bedroom are particularly noteworthy.

Walked up to the second floor

Down to the first floor

The backyard garden

The back of the Chateau

The château is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens, including a formal parterre, an English-style park, and a vegetable garden. There’s also an orangerie and a labyrinth.

At the far end of the garden is a building that is used as a restaurant.

Walking back to the Chateau

We took the tour van and went to the last Chateau of the tour which was Chenonceau Chateau.

Walking toward Chenonceau Chateau

The château was originally built in the early 16th century on the foundations of an old mill and later expanded to span the River Cher. It was commissioned by Thomas Bohier, who was the chamberlain for King Charles VIII of France.

I came out from the Chateau to see the garden in front of it.

Came back into the Chateau

Chenonceau has served as a royal residence and has hosted many notable figures, including kings and queens of France. Catherine de’ Medici, in particular, used the château as her primary residence after the death of her husband, King Henry II.

One of the most distinctive architectural features of Chenonceau is the gallery that spans the River Cher. Originally a bridge built by Diane de Poitiers, it was later transformed into a two-story gallery by Catherine de’ Medici.

My back side

I came out to the other side of the river

The château exemplifies French Renaissance architecture with its elegant design, featuring a blend of Gothic and early Renaissance styles. The structure is notable for its harmonious proportions and intricate detailing.

I went inside the Chateau again

The château’s interiors are richly decorated with period furniture, tapestries, and artworks. Notable rooms include the Grande Galerie, the Green Study, the Chapel, and the various bedrooms that reflect the tastes and styles of different historical periods.

Up to the second floor

The second floor of the Bridge Gallery.  It serves as a mini museum about the Chateau.

The developement of the Chateau.

Chenonceau is renowned for its association with several prominent women, including Diane de Poitiers, Catherine de’ Medici, Louise Dupin, and others, who played significant roles in its development and decoration.

Chenonceau boasts beautifully maintained gardens, including the Garden of Diane de Poitiers and the Garden of Catherine de’ Medici. These gardens are renowned for their symmetrical designs, ornamental flower beds, and peaceful ambiance.

To the third floor

The third floor has this one room and not much else.

Walking the front yard and the gardens of the Chateau

Leaving the Chateau