A Boutique Hotel near Chambord and Cheverny Castles
Ideally located just 10km from the châteaux of Chambord and Cheverny, Les Hayes is an ideal base from which to explore these 2 iconic châteaux.
Chambord castle : more than a Château, a Royal Dream
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The largest and most iconic of all the Loire Valley Castles, Chambord Castle is one of France’s greatest architectural masterpieces. Built in 1519 by King Francis I as a symbol of his power and ambition, it was later completed by Louis XIV. Although neither king ever made Chambord their permanent residence, both loved spending time here with their royal court, organising spectacular hunting parties in what remains the largest enclosed park in Europe. Surrounded by a 32-kilometre wall, the estate covers an area almost as large as the city of Paris.
One of Chambord’s greatest curiosities is its extraordinary double-helix staircase, widely believed to have been inspired by the genius of Leonardo da Vinci. Its ingenious design allows two people to climb separate staircases while seeing each other through the central opening—without ever crossing paths. It remains one of the château’s most fascinating features for visitors of all ages.
Throughout the year, Chambord also hosts an impressive programme of cultural events, including concerts by internationally renowned artists, equestrian performances, historical reenactments, stone-carving workshops and many family-friendly activities. Every visit offers something new to discover, making Chambord much more than a château—it’s a destination in its own right.
- From Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, Chambord Castle is just a 15-minute drive away. Alternatively, borrow one of our complimentary bicycles or electric bikes and follow Loire à Vélo Route 3, which passes directly in front of the estate, for a scenic 45-minute ride through the forests of Sologne.
Cheverny Castle: A Favourite for Families
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If there is one château that never fails to delight visitors of all ages, it is Cheverny Castle. Located just 10 kilometres from Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, this elegant Loire Valley château combines magnificent architecture with beautifully maintained gardens and an exceptional programme of seasonal events.
Throughout the year, there is always something new to discover. In spring, more than 500,000 tulips transform the gardens into a spectacular display of colour. Autumn brings the famous Halloween decorations, with hundreds of pumpkins and playful ghosts taking over the estate. Families will also enjoy the giant hedge maze, the graceful black swans wandering through the grounds and the remarkable collection of centuries-old trees.
Cheverny is equally famous for its connection with The Adventures of Tintin. Inspired by the château, Hergé created the iconic Marlinspike Hall, home of Captain Haddock. A permanent Tintin exhibition invites visitors to step into the world of the famous comic books, making Cheverny one of the most popular Loire Valley castles for families travelling with children.
If your children are not convinced by the idea of visiting historic castles, Cheverny is likely to change their minds. Between the gardens, seasonal events, interactive exhibitions and family-friendly atmosphere, it offers one of the most enjoyable château experiences in the Loire Valley.
From Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, Cheverny Castle is just 15 minutes by car. Guests can also borrow one of our complimentary bicycles or electric bikes and enjoy a scenic ride through the forests of Sologne, following quiet country roads and sections of the famous Loire à Vélo cycling route.
- Cheverny Castle is only 15 minutes from Les Hayes by car. For a more memorable experience, borrow one of our complimentary bicycles or electric bikes and follow Loire à Vélo Route 5, which runs directly past the estate. The route winds through the peaceful forests of Sologne for most of the 50-minute ride, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Other great Loire Valley Castles to Discover
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While Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle are the region’s most famous landmarks, Les Hayes Boutique Hotel is also perfectly located to explore several other remarkable Loire Valley Castles, each with its own unique character.
Just 5 minutes from the estate, Château de Villesavin is one of the Loire Valley’s best-kept secrets. Often nicknamed “the workers’ lodge of Chambord”, it was built by Jean Le Breton, the financial supervisor of Chambord’s construction. Smaller and more intimate than its famous neighbour, Villesavin charms visitors with its peaceful courtyard shaded by a magnificent centuries-old weeping willow and its authentic Renaissance atmosphere.
Just 20 minutes away, Blois Royal Castle overlooks the Loire River and offers a fascinating journey through French history. Home to seven kings and ten queens, it is renowned for its remarkable blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Classical architecture, as well as the dramatic assassination of the Duke of Guise, one of the most famous episodes in French history.
Within 40 minutes, you can also discover two of the Loire Valley’s greatest treasures. Chaumont-sur-Loire is internationally celebrated for its International Garden Festival, where landscape designers from around the world create extraordinary contemporary gardens every year. Nearby, Chenonceau Castle, often called “the Ladies’ Castle”, gracefully spans the River Cher with its iconic arches, making it one of the most photographed and romantic castles in France.
Whether you are passionate about history, architecture, gardens or simply looking for unforgettable day trips, Les Hayes Boutique Hotel is the perfect base for exploring the very best of the Loire Valley Castles.
