Commissioned by François I in 1519, Chambord is the magnificent Renaissance centerpiece of the largest enclosed park in Europe. He actively supervised its construction until his death in 1547. The vision was continued by his son Henry II and finally completed during the reign of Louis XIV.
Commissioned by François I in 1519, Chambord is the magnificent Renaissance centerpiece of the largest enclosed park in Europe. He actively supervised its construction until his death in 1547. The vision was continued by his son Henry II and finally completed during the reign of Louis XIV.
Traditionally, the Kings of France travelled constantly, both to keep in touch with their subjects but also to get in some hunting. Chambord was never a royal residence but during any visit by the king it was required to accommodate as many as 3,000 members of his retinue.
Thirteen thousand acres inside a 32 km wall, including the Sologne forest, teeming with game, have made Chambord a destination for hunters for centuries. In the final year of his reign François declared it “Royal Captainry of Hunts.” President Charles De Gaulle organized a presidential boar hunt in 1965, a tradition that continued until 2010.
A mere two hours from Paris, Chambord is the perfect first stop on a tour of the eastern chateaux of the Loire. As you approach the chateau on foot you will pass Le Grand Hotel Saint Michel . This rustic 42 room residence that reflects the spoils of the hunt with deer heads adorning the dining rooms and game-themed paintings.Very decent food is served at reasonable prices. I started with a salmon-crab carpaccio, continued with an excellent lamb chop and finished with a mountainous mille feuille.
There are many ways to optimize your day at Chambord, especially when you know that a pre-dinner apéritif, on the terrace facing the chateaux and refreshing sleep are only steps away at Le Grand Hotel Saint-Michel.
Start with the 20 minute CGI film that is projected continuously on the ground floor and continue with a choice of audio guides or guided tours.
A coachman with two horses can carry sixteen visitors around the property while exploring the flora and fauna and never out of sight of the chateau. For the more adventurous an SUV will give you a bumpy ride into the forest.
Throughout the summer, plays, concerts, literary talks and art exhibitions will add cultural richness to your experience.
Other lodging option are two self-catering cottages that can sleep 6 -8 people. perfect for a family or two or a group of friends.
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