Welcome to Loir-et-Cher
If you want to discover another French department full of cultural and historical heritage, look no further, since it is at your disposal. It is located in the heart of the Centre-Val de Loire and south of the Parisian basin and is appreciated by the kings of France!
The privileged geographical situation of Loir-et-Cher not only borders with Perche, Beauce, Sologne and Touraine, but also in the diversity of its landscapes, as it is a natural area where flora and fauna abound.
This is a department of France that seems to have emerged from a fairy tale and whose castles reflect the key role they played in medieval times. Religious wars and invasions by foreign armies made it necessary to build these castles for defence.
What to see in Loir-et-Cher?
The Loire river runs through this region, but also the Loir in the north-east and the Cher in the south, rivers that give it its name and are characterised by several ponds, most of which can be found in Sologne.
The natural regions of the Loire and the Cher are largely linked to the nature of the subsoil. Thus, the Loire Valley is covered with alluvial deposits from the Quaternary period by the river of the same name.
It is an almost flat department the highest peak of which is located in Bouffry. The department's main valleys are concentrated along the Loire, the Loire and the Cher rivers. The rest of the department is flat, especially in Sologne and Beauce.
What curiosities are there?
Despite the bombings of World War II, the small town of Blois has managed to preserve its strong cultural identity. Much of the result of these preservation efforts can be seen in the old town with its magnificent castle and is also known as the place where Joan of Arc had her coat of arms blessed.
Cheverny is a picturesque village in the Loire Valley, famous for its castles and activities for the whole family. A few metres away is the Château de Troussay, which is the smallest of the Loire valley's castles. The main attraction is the castle of Cheverny, known for its lack of Renaissance elements. So much so, that its classic and symmetrical design distinguishes it from the other castles in the Loire Valley.
Another castle, considered by many as one of the wonders of the world, can also be found at Chambord. Known for its French architecture and built in the 16th century, the Château de Chambord has towers that point to the sky and has a very large extension that reaches up to 400 rooms.
Book online your ideal rural house in Loir-et-Cher
Where can you sleep?
You are invited to make yourself at home in all types of accommodation in this department! Take your time to discover your next holiday in the Loire Valley and the thousands of secrets that are hidden here.
You can book a room or whatever you prefer in the heart of the Loire castles. But, if you are one of those people that prefer travelling around the world on wheels, it is also possible to rent a caravan or if you want a campsite in the middle of nature. Whatever you want.
As always, the above-mentioned cities are the most popular destinations for people during their stay. But there are others like Saint-Aignan, Souesmes or Chaumont-sur-Loire that are also excellent options.
What to do in the area?
It is essential to be informed and to understand the past of the Loire and Cher to fully enjoy a trip to this French department. The Castle of Blois is one of its most ancient monuments that belongs to the Renaissance period and has been a long-time favourite residence among the kings of France. It is characterized mainly by its amazing architecture.
Another highlight of this region is visiting the House of Magic in Blois. In the 19th century, Jean-Eugène Robert Houdini had become one of the greatest magicians in France, so this intellectual journey highlights the life of this world-renown illusionist.
Since the Middle Ages, the Abbey of the Trinity in Vendôme has been a real jewel of French architecture. In 1907, the cloister buildings were almost all demolished for the use of the military. Those that were left are housed in a small museum dedicated to the citizens of Vendôme, and its manuscripts are kept in the municipal library.
What typical foods are recommended?
First of all, it is perhaps important to note that this region has an abundance of desserts and sweet dishes, as well as recipes made using local products.
We start with the main savoury dish, the beuchelle de Tours, a meat speciality that is a very old recipe the base of which are gizzards and veal kidneys, cooked with mushrooms and in a cream sauce.
You must also try the Touraine free-range chicken with morels in white wine essence, a very complete dish elaborated with cream, butter and white wine that is not difficult to prepare.
And the rondiaux, sweet doughnuts, soft inside and slightly crunchy outside. These simple sweets can be enjoyed with tea or during some special occasions.
Where are the festivities?
The Jazz-Musette des Puces festival in June is one of the most famous music festivals of Loir-et-Cher, offering free concerts over several days. You can listen to the music of great artists such as Richard Galliano or Thomas Dutronc.
These are held in the Saint-Ouen market, but some concerts also take place in bars. The "Young Talents" competition closes the festival.
The International Garden Festival in Chaumont-sur-Loire in April: artists and landscape designers from all over the world are gathered in this international exhibition which lasts a few months. Its beauty and aesthetic force are something truly authentic!
And on the Heritage Days in September in Blois, held every third Saturday and Sunday in September, you can discover forgotten or rarely visited touristic sites. What's more, most of the experiences are also free!
