Summer at the Mysterious Château de Chambord

Château de Chambord is the largest castle in the Loire Valley and widely considered one of the most impressive examples of French Renaissance and Medieval Revival architecture. Probably the most impressive castle due to its aforementioned size, it comprises of 426 rooms, 282 fireplaces, no less than 83 staircases, and a staggering number of towers. It was commissioned by King Francis I, completed in 1547 and designed by a mystery architect rumoured to be Leonardo da Vinci himself.

‪Last year‪ marked the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death in Amboise, a town on the southern bank of the Loire River in France and a short drive from the Château. To some, Leonardo’s influence and spirit are noticeable at Chambord due to its ornamental facades, modular interiors and grid-style layouts that mimic his signature elegance and pioneering logic.

Château de Chambord is a must visit to anyone visiting Les Bordes Estate. Not only is it located on the doorstep, but there is a wealth of things to do here throughout the year. As well as the obvious guided and private tours, you can also see the beautiful building from above on a helicopter or balloon tour, visit for wine tasting, explore via boat, take a horse and carriage ride, or discover the thriving arts scene.

Faithful to this centuries-old artistic tradition, Chambord operates a cultural program that showcases the three major cultural fields of the Renaissance: texts, music, and the fine arts (theatre and dance have been added on). 

To celebrate its tenth year of existence, this year’s arts festival includes 17 concerts and a few surprises: a concert in the forest, a recital at the foot of the double staircase, an evening in homage to the king of Argentinean tango Astor Piazzolla, a reading-concert with Vanessa Wagner and Arthur H, and a new concept: a musical walk in the castle after it’s closed for the evening.

You can speak to a member of our team any time before or during your visit to us, who will be glad to organise a day trip to Château de Chambord.