The most beautiful villages to discover around Blois

Want to discover the hidden treasures of the Blois region? Then you’ve come to the right place! We’re taking you on a tour of the most beautiful villages around Blois, for a trip rich in history, nature and local flavours. From Cheverny to Lavardin, via Chambord and Montrichard, there’s something for everyone. Just follow the guide!

1. The picturesque charm of Cheverny

Cheverny is a magnificent village just a few kilometres from Blois. The village is famous for its castle, which inspired Hergé to create the Château de Moulinsart in the adventures of Tintin. As well as the castle and its French-style gardens, you can visit the museum dedicated to Tintin and wander through the village’s peaceful streets. Traditional stone houses and small shops add to Cheverny’s warm, authentic atmosphere.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the locally produced wines of Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny by visiting the surrounding vineyards. Golf enthusiasts can also take advantage of the golf course located close to the château. Cheverny is definitely a village not to be missed during your stay in Blois.

2. Chaumont-sur-Loire: between history and unspoilt nature

Chaumont-sur-Loire is a charming village on the banks of the Loire, around 20 kilometres from Blois. Its 15th-century château towers majestically over the river, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is also renowned for its International Garden Festival, an annual event that attracts visitors from all over the world to admire its innovative and original landscape creations.

The village of Chaumont-sur-Loire is also a haven of peace for nature lovers. The banks of the Loire offer numerous opportunities for walks and cycle rides, allowing you to appreciate the local flora and fauna. You can also visit the Maison de la Loire, an interpretation centre dedicated to discovering the region’s natural and cultural heritage. A visit to Chaumont-sur-Loire is a promise of escape and rejuvenation.

3. Chambord: majesty and natural landscapes

Chambord is without doubt one of the most emblematic sites in the Blois region. Its castle, an architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of visitors every year. As well as visiting the château and its gardens, Chambord also offers a wide range of activities, including horse-riding shows, horse-drawn carriage rides and boat trips on the canal.

There’s much more to the Chambord estate than its château: it also boasts a natural park covering over 5,000 hectares, home to deer, wild boar and a host of birds. Hikers can explore the marked footpaths, while cyclists can hire bikes to explore the surrounding area. Chambord is a must for lovers of history, architecture and nature.

4. Montrichard: a dive into the heart of the Cher Valley

Montrichard is a charming little town in the Val de Cher, around 30 kilometres from Blois. Its medieval keep, overlooking the town, bears witness to its rich historical past. You can also visit the church of Notre-Dame de Nanteuil, a jewel of Romanesque architecture, and stroll through the shopping streets of the town centre.

The River Cher offers plenty of opportunities for water-based activities such as canoeing and fishing. Hiking enthusiasts can take advantage of the signposted footpaths that criss-cross the surrounding countryside and the vineyards of the Val de Cher. Montrichard is an ideal destination for lovers of nature, history and heritage.

5. Fougères-sur-Bièvre: authenticity and unspoilt charm

Fougères-sur-Bièvre is a charming village around twenty kilometres from Blois. Its medieval castle, with its keep and brick facade, is an architectural gem well worth a visit. The village has preserved its authenticity, with cobbled streets and stone houses.

The area around Fougères-sur-Bièvre offers plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling, as well as tours to discover the local heritage. Don’t hesitate to stop off at the farms and wineries to sample the local produce. Fougères-sur-Bièvre is an ideal place for a bucolic, rejuvenating break.

6. Cellettes: a winegrowing village with bucolic charm

Cellettes is a pleasant village around ten kilometres from Blois, in the heart of the Cheverny vineyards. Its narrow streets and stone houses bear witness to its past as a wine-growing village. You can visit the church of Saint-Christophe, a medieval building with remarkable 16th-century frescoes, and take a walk along the river Beuvron.

Wine lovers can visit the vineyards around Cellettes and taste the wines of Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny. Walkers can also take advantage of the many signposted footpaths through the countryside and vineyards. Cellettes is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and wine heritage.

7. Chitenay: a delicious blend of tradition and gastronomy

Chitenay is a charming village around 15 kilometres from Blois. It is renowned for its architectural heritage, including the 12th-century church of Saint-Pierre and its traditional stone houses. Chitenay is also a hot spot for local gastronomy, with several restaurants and inns serving typical regional dishes.

The village is surrounded by vineyards and forests, offering plenty of opportunities for walking and cycling. Fishing enthusiasts can also indulge their passion in the nearby ponds and rivers. Chitenay is an ideal destination for gourmets and nature lovers.

8. Lavardin: one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France

Lavardin is a superb village around 40 kilometres from Blois. It is listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’ and is sure to charm you with its picturesque narrow streets, stone houses and flower-filled gardens. The Château de Lavardin, which dominates the village, bears witness to its rich historical past and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Be sure to visit the church of Saint-Genest, a Romanesque building with 12th-century frescoes, as well as the troglodytes and wash-houses dotted around the village. Art lovers can also discover the museum of the Impressionist painter Charles-François Daubigny, who stayed in Lavardin. A stay in Lavardin is a promise of a change of scenery and enchantment.

In conclusion, the area around Blois is full of charming and picturesque villages, rich in history, heritage and natural landscapes. Whether you’re a lover of architecture, gastronomy, wine or nature walks, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for among these destinations. So don’t hesitate any longer, and set off to discover the hidden treasures of the Blois region!