Tours/Amboise: Private day trip Chambord, Blois & Cheverny

Explore the Loire Valley’s Top Castles in One Day

This private day trip offers a comprehensive visit to three of the most celebrated châteaux in the Loire Valley: Château de Blois, Château de Cheverny, and Château de Chambord. Priced at $1,100 per group, the tour is designed for those who want an in-depth, personalized experience in a compact 9-hour window. The tour departs from Amboise or Tours, making it convenient for travelers staying in either town, with pickup and drop-off included.

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on guided visits, local wine tastings, and the opportunity to explore some of the region’s most historic and architecturally diverse castles. The full-day private nature provides a flexible, relaxed pace that suits those who prefer a more intimate and tailored experience, with expert guides sharing stories and insights throughout the day.

A notable aspect is the inclusion of organic wine tastings, highlighting the region’s commitment to sustainable viticulture. While the tour covers significant ground, it offers enough time at each stop to appreciate the marvels of each château without rushing. However, it is best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing, as the stops involve guided tours and some walking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private guided tour covering three major castles in the Loire Valley with full tickets included
• Duration of 9 hours, starting from Amboise or Tours
• Includes organic wine tastings of Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny wines
• Visits to Château de Blois, Cheverny, and Chambord with expert guides
• Lunch break recommended with local dining suggestions
• Suitable for those looking for a personalized, relaxed experience of the region’s highlights

Starting the Day with Pickup in Tours or Amboise

The day begins with pickup from your accommodation in either Tours or Amboise at 9:00 AM. The private minivan, accommodating up to eight passengers, ensures a comfortable journey through the sprawling countryside of the Loire Valley. This personalized pick-up service means no waiting in lines or navigating public transport, giving you more time to enjoy the sights.

Once on the road, the guide provides a warm welcome and introduces the plan for the day, setting the mood for a well-organized and engaging experience. The driving time between stops varies, with approximately 45 minutes to Château de Blois from the pick-up point.

Discovering Château de Blois’ Architectural Diversity

The first castle on the itinerary is Château de Blois, a site renowned for its mix of Medieval, Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture. This castle was once home to kings Louis XII and François I, making it a key royal residence in French history.

Inside, the guided tour lasts about 75 minutes, offering a close look at its beautiful halls and historic rooms. The castle’s architecture reflects different periods, making it a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts. Visitors learn about Joan of Arc, who came here to be blessed before leading her army to Orléans, adding a layer of historical drama to the visit.

The tour allows time for free exploration afterward, so visitors can take in the views and admire the intricate details at their own pace before moving on to the next stop.

Tasting Organic Wines at Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny

After the castle visit, the group pauses for a wine tasting at a local winery. This session lasts about one hour and features organic wines from Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny.

The wines include elegant reds from pinot noir and gamay grapes, as well as fruity whites from chardonnay and sauvignon. The highlight is the white wine made from romorantin grapes, a variety introduced to the region by King François I. The tasting offers a taste of the Loire Valley’s commitment to sustainable winemaking and a chance to savor local flavors.

Following the tasting, there is a one-hour lunch break, with the guide recommending nearby dining options to enjoy regional specialties or relaxed countryside meals before continuing with the castle visits.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring Château de Cheverny’s Timeless Elegance

The afternoon begins with a guided tour of Château de Cheverny, which has been owned by the same family since Louis XIII’s reign. The castle is famous for its beautiful furniture and its well-preserved interiors, which showcase classic French style.

Visitors learn about the castle’s connection to Tintin comics, as it served as inspiration for the famous character’s home, adding a touch of literary charm. The guide also shares stories of the hunting traditions, including horseback hunts with a pack of 100 dogs and the popular dogs’ soup event, which is a daily spectacle.

The guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours, providing ample time to appreciate both its architecture and its fascinating history. The castle’s gardens and grounds are also worth a brief stroll if time permits.

Marveling at Château de Chambord’s French Renaissance Architecture

The final castle is Château de Chambord, renowned worldwide for its distinctive French Renaissance style. The largest château in the Loire Valley, Chambord is famous for its fantastical roofline and vast game reserve.

A guided tour of 1.5 hours takes visitors through its grand halls and intricate staircases. The castle’s design is often attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, and its unverified involvement adds an element of mystery. The castle’s size and unique architecture make it a highlight of the trip, offering stunning views and impressive interiors.

The tour concludes with a 1-hour drive back to the starting point, arriving around 6:00 PM. This allows for a relaxed end to the day, with plenty of space to reflect on the history and beauty of the Loire’s castles.

Logistics, Group Size, and Accessibility

This private tour ensures a personalized experience, with pickup and drop-off included at your accommodation in Tours or Amboise. The 8-passenger minivan provides a comfortable and flexible way to travel, with stops tailored to your interests.

The tour is conducted in English and features an expert, friendly driver-guide. While the tour offers a relaxed pace, it involves some walking and standing during castle visits, making it less suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

The entire experience is carefully timed to maximize sightseeing, with a full-day schedule that balances guided tours, tastings, and free time.

The Value of a Full-Day Private Experience in the Loire Valley

This tour offers excellent value for those seeking a personalized, in-depth visit to three iconic castles without the hassle of self-guided travel. The full tickets and guided tours are included, along with organic wine tastings, which add a memorable local touch.

At $1,100 per group, it’s ideal for small groups or couples who appreciate the convenience and intimacy of a private trip. The 9-hour duration provides a comfortably paced day, with enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed.

While the tour does not include meals or additional drinks, it offers suggestions for lunch, and the experience of guided exploration, wine tasting, and architectural discovery makes it a comprehensive day in the Loire.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and wine lovers. The guides’ knowledge is consistently praised, and the inclusion of organic wine tastings adds a special flavor to the day. It suits those who want a personalized, relaxed, and informative journey through the Loire’s most famous castles.

However, travelers who prefer a more active or accessible experience might need to consider the physical demands of walking through castles or the tour’s structure.

Final Thoughts on the Loire Valley Private Castle Tour

This full-day private trip combines the best of the Loire Valley’s castles, wines, and stories in a well-organized, intimate package. The guided tours of Château de Blois, Cheverny, and Chambord reveal both the architectural grandeur and historical significance of each site.

The wine tasting enriches the experience by showcasing the region’s organic viticulture. The professional guides and personalized service ensure a memorable day tailored to your interests.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent option for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a comprehensive, relaxed exploration of the Loire’s most renowned castles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The full-day private excursion includes pickup and drop-off, transportation by minivan, guided tours of all three castles, tickets, and organic wine tasting.

How long are the castle visits?
The visit to Château de Blois lasts about 75 minutes, Cheverny has a guided tour of 1.5 hours, and Chambord also involves a 1.5-hour guided tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it offers flexibility within the scheduled stops, but the main sites are fixed to ensure a full experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but the guide will recommend local restaurants for a one-hour break.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and stairs at the castles.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 5 days in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby