A Family-Friendly Boutique Hotel in the Loire Valley
Visiting the Loire Valley Castles as a family is one of the most memorable holidays you can enjoy in France. From magnificent Renaissance châteaux and beautifully landscaped gardens to cycling trails, forests and outdoor adventures, the Loire Valley offers endless opportunities for families to explore, relax and create unforgettable memories together.
When planning a family holiday, however, one question always comes up: Where is the best place to stay when visiting the Loire Valley with children?
Should you book a hotel next to one of the famous castles? Stay close to a particular attraction? Or choose a central location that makes it easy to explore several of the Loire Valley’s highlights while giving children the freedom to play, relax and enjoy their holiday?
After welcoming thousands of families over the years, we have come to one conclusion: the secret to a successful family holiday isn’t visiting as many castles as possible. It’s finding the right balance between cultural discoveries, outdoor adventures and moments of relaxation, so that parents and children alike return home with wonderful memories.
Kids Don’t Need Three Castles a Day
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When planning a trip to the Loire Valley, it’s tempting to try to see everything. Chambord Castle, Cheverny Castle, Blois, Chenonceau, Amboise… the list of remarkable places seems endless. Yet after a day or two, most families come to the same conclusion.
Children genuinely enjoy visiting castles—but only to a certain point. Exploring a château often means walking several kilometres, climbing countless staircases and spending hours discovering history and architecture. Even the most enthusiastic young explorers eventually need time to simply be children.
From our experience, families enjoy their stay far more when they keep a balanced rhythm:
- One château a day
- Half a day exploring
- Half a day simply enjoying the holiday
A swim in the heated pool, a family bike ride through the forests of Sologne, outdoor games, toasting marshmallows around the fire pit or unexpectedly spotting a deer wandering through the estate… These are often the moments children remember long after the holiday is over.
At Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, we believe the best family holidays are those that combine the cultural treasures of the Loire Valley with the freedom to relax, play and reconnect with nature.
Chambord Castle: The Must-See of the Loire Valley Castles
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No visit to the Loire Valley would be complete without discovering Chambord Castle. With its 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces and iconic double-helix staircase, it is the largest and most spectacular of all the Loire Valley Castles. Commissioned by King Francis I in 1519 and widely associated with the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, Chambord is now recognised as one of the finest masterpieces of the French Renaissance and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Children are often captivated by:
- the sheer size of the château;
- the panoramic rooftop terraces;
- fascinating stories of French kings and royal hunting parties;
- the famous double-helix staircase, where two people can climb without ever crossing paths.
Chambord leaves a lasting impression thanks to its extraordinary scale and remarkable architecture. For many families, it becomes the highlight of their journey through the Loire Valley Castles, combining history, adventure and wonder in a way that fascinates visitors of every age.
Cheverny Castle: The Loire Valley’s Favourite Family Château
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Just 20 kilometres from Chambord Castle and only 10 kilometres from Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, Cheverny Castle offers a completely different experience. Elegant, welcoming and still fully furnished, it feels less like a museum and more like a grand family home whose owners have only just stepped outside.
Children especially enjoy:
- the Tintin exhibition, inspired by Hergé’s famous Marlinspike Hall;
- the impressive LEGO® reproductions of famous works of art displayed throughout the château and its grounds;
- the many seasonal events, from spring flower displays to Halloween celebrations;
- the large hedge maze, perfect for young explorers;
- the beautifully landscaped gardens, where families can stroll at their own pace.
Cheverny is undoubtedly one of the most family-friendly Loire Valley Castles. Its interactive activities, lively atmosphere and ever-changing programme of events make it a favo
Why Staying Between Chambord and Cheverny Is the Smartest Choice for Families
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When travelling with children, every minute spent in the car matters. Staying between Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle means you can easily explore both of the Loire Valley’s most iconic landmarks without spending your holiday on the road.
More importantly, it allows your family to enjoy much more than sightseeing. Instead of rushing from one attraction to another, you can embrace a slower, more enjoyable rhythm:
- A château visit in the morning
- A swim in the heated pool in the afternoon
- A family bike ride through the forests of Sologne
- A peaceful dinner on the terrace before a relaxing night in the countryside
At Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, we believe the best family holidays are about creating lasting memories—not simply ticking famous landmarks off a list. By combining the cultural treasures of the Loire Valley with nature, outdoor activities and time to unwind, every day becomes a holiday in itself.
Les Hayes, at the Heart of the Loire Valley
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Les Hayes Boutique Hotel enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the Loire Valley, just 10 kilometres from Chambord Castle and 10 kilometres from Cheverny Castle. Ideally positioned between two of the region’s most iconic landmarks, it offers families the perfect base for discovering the Loire Valley Castles without spending hours on the road.
While the main attractions are just minutes away, the atmosphere at Les Hayes couldn’t feel more different. Surrounded by a 180-hectare private estate of forests, lakes and open meadows, the hotel offers peace, space and nature in abundance.
Here, there are no busy roads, shopping centres or crowds—just birdsong, woodland walks and the freedom for children to explore safely. Yet the charming village of Bracieux is only 2 kilometres away, and several excellent restaurants can be reached within a five-minute drive.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a cycling getaway or a tour of the Loire Valley Castles, Les Hayes combines the best of both worlds: easy access to the region’s cultural treasures and the tranquillity of an authentic countryside retreat.
Cycle to Chambord and Cheverny from Les Hayes
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One of the greatest advantages of staying at Les Hayes Boutique Hotel is the opportunity to reach both Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle by bicycle, directly from the estate.
Thanks to the Loire à Vélo network, which passes right alongside Les Hayes, you can follow quiet country roads, dedicated cycle paths and peaceful forest trails for most of the journey. With three Loire à Vélo routes accessible from the estate, exploring the Loire Valley by bike couldn’t be easier.
Complimentary bicycles are available for all hotel guests, while electric bikes can also be hired for a small additional charge. In reality, most visitors find that a standard bicycle is perfectly adequate. The roads are almost entirely flat, and both Chambord and Cheverny can be reached in around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace.
To make family outings as easy as possible, we also provide:
- Baby seats
- Children’s trailers
- Children’s bikes and equipment
- Helmets
For many families, the cycle ride becomes one of the highlights of their stay. Children feel as though they are setting off on a real adventure, while parents discover the forests and landscapes of Sologne at a slower, more relaxed pace. Arriving at Chambord Castle or Cheverny Castle by bike is an experience that is every bit as memorable as the visit itself.
Not Just Castles visit, but real Family Holidays
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This is perhaps what makes Les Hayes Boutique Hotel so different from simply staying near one of the Loire Valley Castles. Once the day’s sightseeing is over, children return to a 180-hectare private estate designed for adventure, exploration and outdoor fun.
Depending on their age, they can enjoy:
- The heated outdoor swimming pool
- Forest laser game
- Escape game experiences
- Boat rides on the estate’s lakes
- Large outdoor play areas
- Complimentary bicycles
- Woodlands, meadows and endless open spaces to explore
The result is a much more balanced family holiday. Children have the freedom to play, discover and create their own adventures, while parents can finally slow down, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
At Les Hayes, a family holiday is about far more than visiting castles. It’s about sharing experiences, reconnecting with nature and creating memories that will last long after the journey home.
Evenings Made for Families
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After a day exploring the Loire Valley Castles, the estate returns to its peaceful rhythm. On warm evenings, dinner is served on the terrace while the children slip away to enjoy the freedom of the estate.
Some head for the playground, others to the children’s playhouse, while many simply run across the lawns surrounding the château or invent new adventures with the friends they’ve made during their stay.
As daylight fades, parents can linger over dinner, enjoying a glass of Loire Valley wine and the tranquillity of the surroundings, knowing their children are safely enjoying themselves nearby.
For many families, these simple moments become the most treasured memories of the holiday. They perfectly capture the spirit of Les Hayes Boutique Hotel—a place where everyone, whatever their age, can enjoy their own perfect holiday at their own pace.
Our Favourite 3-Day Family Itinerary in the Loire Valley
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Day 1 – Arrive, Unwind and Let the Holiday Begin
Arrive at Les Hayes Boutique Hotel from 3:00 pm and settle into your room before your holiday truly begins.
Every afternoon, enjoy our complimentary homemade cakes and freshly made lemonade, served in the château or on the terrace. It’s the perfect opportunity to slow down after your journey while the children start exploring the estate.
Spend the rest of the afternoon discovering our 180-hectare private estate. Take a dip in the heated swimming pool, set off on our outdoor escape game through the park or simply enjoy the wide open spaces that make Les Hayes such a wonderful place for families.
As evening falls, dinner is served on the terrace whenever the weather allows. Later, gather around the fire pit to toast marshmallows beneath the stars—a simple tradition that has become one of our youngest guests’ favourite holiday memories.
Day 2 – Chambord Castle and Outdoor Adventures
Start the morning gently with an outdoor yoga session beneath centuries-old oak trees while the children enjoy themselves at the playhouse.
After breakfast, head to the magnificent Chambord Castle, just 15 minutes from the hotel. Spend the morning exploring the château before returning to Les Hayes for our complimentary afternoon tea.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy. Challenge the family to a game of laser tag in the forest, take a rowing boat onto the lake or simply relax beside the heated swimming pool while the children continue their adventures.
End the day with another peaceful evening on the estate, surrounded by the tranquillity of the Sologne countryside.
Day 3 – Bees, Bicycles and Cheverny Castle
Begin the day with one of our most unusual family experiences.
Children aged 7 and over can put on a real beekeeper’s suit and join us beside the hives to discover the fascinating world of bees. It’s a wonderful opportunity to understand where the delicious honey served at breakfast comes from while learning about the importance of pollinators in nature.
Later, borrow one of our complimentary bicycles and follow the peaceful Loire à Vélo cycling routes to Cheverny Castle, less than 40 minutes away. The ride itself is part of the adventure, taking you through forests and quiet country lanes before reaching one of the Loire Valley’s most family-friendly castles.
After your visit, cycle back to Les Hayes through the beautiful landscapes of Sologne, bringing home not only photographs of the Loire Valley, but memories of a family holiday filled with nature, discovery and time spent together.
FAQ
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Which is the Best Loire Valley Castle to Visit with Children?
Both Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle offer unforgettable family experiences, but for different reasons.
Chambord Castle is the most spectacular of all the Loire Valley Castles, famous for its monumental architecture, panoramic terraces and the extraordinary double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.
Cheverny Castle, on the other hand, is often the favourite among families thanks to its Tintin exhibition, giant LEGO® displays, seasonal events, beautiful gardens and large hedge maze. It offers one of the most child-friendly experiences in the Loire Valley.
How Many Days Should You Spend in the Loire Valley with Children?
We recommend three days as the perfect length for a family getaway.
This gives you enough time to visit Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle, enjoy the outdoor activities at Les Hayes Boutique Hotel, and discover the natural beauty of Sologne without rushing from one attraction to the next.
Where Should You Stay When Visiting the Loire Valley Castles with Children?
The ideal place to stay is somewhere centrally located, allowing you to reach the region’s most famous castles while giving children plenty of space to play and enjoy their holiday.
Les Hayes Boutique Hotel is perfectly positioned between Chambord Castle and Cheverny Castle, with both just 10 kilometres away. The charming Château de Villesavin is only 2 kilometres from the estate and is a favourite with families thanks to its excellent treasure hunt, specially designed for children.
After a day exploring the castles, families can return to the peace of our 180-hectare private estate, where children can enjoy the heated swimming pool, outdoor activities and wide open spaces while parents relax and unwind.
