What to See at Château de Cheverny (5 Best Things You Can’t Miss)

If you’re visiting the Loire Valley, Chateau de Cheverny is one place that deserves a spot on your list. Cheverny is all about elegance and charm. It’s been in the same family for over six centuries, and you can tell that it is beautifully preserved.

Inside, the rooms are beautiful, with rich tapestries, ornate furniture, and details that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Outside, the gardens are gorgeous and meticulously maintained. There is a kennel full of hunting dogs! Plus, if you’re a fan of Tintin, you might recognize the chateau as the inspiration for Marlinspike Hall.

So, what to see at Chateau de Cheverny? Here are the highlights you don’t want to miss!

Château de Cheverny has been standing tall since the 1600s, built by Henri Hurault, a man with a close connection to King Louis XIII.

The château’s bright white tufa stone makes it one of the most visually striking in the Loire Valley, and it’s stayed remarkably well-preserved over the centuries, still looking just as majestic today as when it was first built.

It wasn’t just any château—Cheverny became a go-to for French royalty and the aristocracy. Louis XIII paid a visit, and thinkers like Voltaire were in awe of its modern amenities during the Enlightenment, especially the innovative heating system they had installed.

Château de Cheverny / What to See at Château de Cheverny

In the middle of the chaos of World War II, Cheverny found itself in the unexpected role of protector. The château safeguarded priceless works of art, including the Mona Lisa, to keep them safe from Nazi looting.

And while that’s a dramatic chapter, there’s also a fun twist. The Adventures of Tintin fans will recognize the château as the inspiration for Captain Haddock’s Marlinspike Hall, bringing some pop culture into the château’s rich history.

Through all the ups and downs, the Hurault family has kept the château in their hands for over 600 years, which is pretty remarkable in itself. In 1922, Cheverny opened its doors to the public, giving visitors like you a chance to step into its grand history and see what makes it so special.

Château de Cheverny / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Grand Salon

As soon as you step into the Grand Salon, you’ll be amazed by the painted ceiling that seems to reach out to you. The vibrant colors and detailed artwork are nothing short of breathtaking! It feels ike a masterpiece hanging right above you.

Make sure to take a moment to look around. Notice the 17th-century Flemish tapestries hanging on the walls. They tell stories of countryside celebrations and calm moments by the water.

Among the artworks displayed is a portrait of Jeanne d’Aragon, attributed to the school of Raphael, and a depiction of Marie Johanne La Saumery, Comtesse de Cheverny, by Pierre Mignard.

The Grand Salon / What to See at Château de Cheverny 

The Grand Salon / What to See at Château de Cheverny 

• The King’s Bedroom

Next step into the King’s Bedroom. It is one of the most opulent rooms in Château de Cheverny. The grand four-poster bed, with its deep red and gold drapery, is said to have once hosted King Henri IV.

Look at the walls adorned with 17th-century Parisian tapestries depicting scenes from the legend of Ulysses.

The room’s furnishings and décor definitely reflect the prestige and luxury of the era, with intricate wood carvings and gilded details adding to its regal atmosphere.

The King’s Bedroom / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Dining Room

The dining room at Château de Cheverny is simply beautiful! You will see wood paneling decorated with 34 painted scenes from Don Quixote, created in the 19th century!

A large fireplace from the same period dominates the room and it provides both warmth and grandeur.

The long dining table is usually set with the seasonal theme and has fine china, crystal, and silverware. It offers a glimpse into the lavish meals that were once enjoyed here.

There is also a beautiful dresser that showcases an impressive collection of porcelain, which definitely adds the historic charm of this room.

Dining Room / What to See at Château de Cheverny

Dining Room / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Bride’s Room & Children’s Room

Next, head to the Bride and Children’s Rooms.

At the Bride’s Room, you will find an elegant wedding gown, evoking the grandeur of past ceremonies. The décor, with delicate fabrics and refined furnishings, reflects the aristocratic traditions of the time.

On the other hand, the Children’s Room offers a more whimsical glimpse into château life. Wooden rocking horses, antique toys, and charming furniture create a nostalgic atmosphere, showcasing how the youngest residents of Cheverny once lived and played.

Bride’s Room / What to See at Château de Cheverny

Children’s Room / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Music Room

In the Music Room, you will see elegant furnishings that create a lively and artistic atmosphere.

A grand piano sits at the heart of the room, surrounded by paintings and tapestries that celebrate music and the arts. This space once hosted intimate performances, adding to the cultural richness of the château.

The Music Room / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Armory 

If you love history, then the Armory is a must-see. Lined with an impressive collection of swords, firearms, and suits of armor, it speaks to the château’s long-standing connection to France’s military past.

The centerpiece is a 17th-century Gobelin tapestry, an intricate work of art that adds even more depth to the room’s historic feel.

Armory / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Library 

Next step into the Library. Now, it is not just the bookshelves and books, the Library holds something even more captivating—portraits of historical figures painted by masters like Jean Clouet and Hyacinthe Rigaud. These faces from the past seem to watch over the space, adding a sense of connection to the château’s long and storied history.

The Library / What to See at Chateau de Cheverny

• The Private Apartments

Final stop, the Private Apartments. These rooms, including the nursery and birth chamber, offer a rare, personal view of how the aristocracy lived.

From the carefully preserved furnishings to the fine details in every corner, these spaces bring to life the ‘art de vivre’ that defined the château’s inhabitants.

Private Apartments / What to See at Château de Cheverny

The gardens at Château de Cheverny are much more than just a pretty view—they’re a constantly evolving treasure. Each garden has its own vibe, from lush, colorful blooms to quiet, serene spots perfect for reflection.

• The Vegetable Garden 

Far more than just a practical space, the château’s vegetable garden, or potager, is a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables, herbs, and flowers.

Sustainability takes center stage here, with organic gardening techniques and educational displays that highlight eco-friendly growing methods.

The Vegetable Garden / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Apprentices’ Garden 

If you love the elegance of traditional French gardens, this one is a must-see. Perfectly trimmed hedges, symmetrical pathways, and carefully curated flower beds make it a showcase of precision and artistry.

The Gardens / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Garden of Love

True to its name, this garden celebrates the timeless theme of love. Sculptures, heart-shaped floral arrangements, and symbolic plantings create a dreamy atmosphere,

The Garden of Love / What to See at Château de Cheverny

• The Tulip Garden

Every spring, the château bursts into an explosion of color with the arrival of over 100,000 blooming tulips!

The display changes each year, ensuring that even returning visitors get a fresh experience. If you’re lucky enough to visit during peak bloom, prepare to be dazzled by wave after wave of vibrant petals stretching across the grounds.

• The Labyrinth

The labyrinth is a must. Designed with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises, it’s a hit.

One of the most unique features of Château de Cheverny is its working kennels, home to around 100 French hounds.

These aren’t just any dogs—they are a carefully bred mix of English Foxhound and French Poitevin, selected for their strength, stamina, and discipline.

This long tradition of hunting with hounds dates back centuries and remains an integral part of life at Cheverny.

The highlight is feeding time, which takes place at 11:30 AM most days. Watching the pack gather in perfect formation before being fed is both fascinating and impressive.

Cheverny is one of the few places in France where the tradition of chasse à courre (stag hunting) is still actively practiced. The estate organizes hunting events from October to March, during which the hounds take to the vast forested grounds, following age-old techniques passed down through generations.

The Kennels / What to See at Château de Cheverny

If you’re a fan of The Adventures of Tintin, you’re in for a treat at Château de Cheverny!

The château was the real-life inspiration for Marlinspike Hall, the grand residence of Captain Haddock in Hergé’s comic series.

Inside the permanent Tintin exhibition, you can step into the world of Tintin with life-sized scenes straight from the comics.

The Tintin Exhibition / What to See at Château de Cheverny

In the summer, you can take a boat ride along the château’s canal or hop into a small electric car to explore the beautiful park.

The boat ride gives you a nice view of the grounds, soaking in the grandeur of the estate, just like the noble families of Cheverny would have done.

If you prefer to stay on land, rent an electric car. It is a fun and easy way to explore the park’s vast grounds.

Château de Cheverny sits in the heart of the Loire Valley. The château is just a short drive from Blois and is surrounded by rolling vineyards, charming villages, and some of the Loire Valley’s most famous estates. How to Get There

• By Car: From Paris, Cheverny is about a 2-hour drive (180 km). Take the A10 motorway toward Blois, then follow the signs for Cheverny. The roads are smooth, scenic, and easy to navigate, making for a pleasant countryside drive.
• By Train: From Paris’ Gare d’Austerlitz or Montparnasse, take a train to Blois-Chambord station (about 1.5 hours). From Blois, a taxi to Cheverny takes around 20 minutes, or you can check for local bus services.
• By Bike: If you’re cycling the Loire à Vélo route, Cheverny is a fantastic stop. The château is well-connected to the region’s network of flat, well-maintained cycling paths, making it an enjoyable and scenic ride.

No need to stress about parking—there’s ample free parking just a short walk from the château entrance. The lot is spacious enough for cars, campervans, and even tour buses. Electric vehicle charging stations are also available, and cyclists will find a dedicated bike parking area nearby.

Opening Hours

• April to September: 9:15 AM – 6:30 PM
• October to March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Open every day, including holidays.

Ticket Prices (as of January 2025)

• Adults: €14.50
• Children (7-14): €10
• Children under 7: Free
• Family Pass: Discounts available (check at the ticket counter).
• Combo Ticket (Château + Tintin Exhibition): €20 for adults.

GOOD TO KNOW: No advance ticket reservations are necessary. Tickets can be purchased directly at the château entrance. For any changes to the opening times or ticket prices, click here.

• Orangery Café

The Orangery Café serves artisanal ice cream, pastries, savory tarts, and hot or cold drinks. Lunch is available daily from 12:00 to 2:00 PM.

• The Kiosk

For a fast option, the Kiosk near the labyrinth serves sandwiches, burgers, pumpkin soup, waffles, mulled wine, and hot chocolate.

• Picnic Areas

There are shaded and open-air picnic spots along the canal where you can enjoy nature while having your picnic.

Plan to spend about 2-3 hours exploring the estate. Here’s a suggested breakdown:

• 1 hour – Wander through the château’s interiors.
• 30–60 minutes – Stroll through the gardens.
• 30 minutes – Stop by the kennels to see the château’s impressive pack of hunting hounds.
• 30 minutes – Explore the Tintin exhibition or any seasonal displays.

Want a more relaxed experience? Stay half a day to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Orangery Café, or even take a boat or electric car ride around the grounds.