THE CHÂTEAU OF CHEVERNY: FRENCH-STYLE CLASSICAL ELEGANCE
Like Chambord or Chenonceau, the Château of Cheverny is undeniably one of the architectural jewels of the Loire Valley! A must-see in the region, it is famed not only for its magnificent facade, splendid interior decors and French-style gardens, but is also well known among fans of the Adventures of Tintin, having inspired the design of the famous Marlinspike Hall!
THE CHÂTEAU OF CHEVERNY AND ITS FASCINATING HISTORY
From its perfectly balanced facades to the details of its sumptuous interior, the Château of Cheverny embodies the French classical style. The property has belonged to the same family for over six centuries and its current owners, the Marquis and Marquise of Vibraye, look after their heritage with care. Built by architect Jacques Bougier between 1620 and 1640, the Château of Cheverny heralded the French style that had its heyday during the reign of Louis XIV. Symmetry and subtlety are the key words of this precisely designed building composed of a central section flanked by two corps de logis and corner pavilions. Easily recognisable by its Bourré stone, which hardens and whitens over time, Cheverny was also the first private château to open its doors to the public. Today, it is still lived in by the family of the Marquis and Marquise of Vibraye and is open to visitors all year round.
VISITING THE CHÂTEAU OF CHEVERNY
EXCEPTIONAL INTERIOR DECOR
Of all the Loire Châteaux, Cheverny is the most lavishly furnished and richly decorated! Its perfectly preserved interiors testify to the French art de vivre through a wide range of styles and periods. Visitors can admire a stunning 7th-century tapestry from the Gobelins Manufactory, gilded objects, paintings by great artists, Louis XIV- and Louis XV-period furniture and items from the past. The rooms are presented exactly as they once were and you could almost believe they were still lived in!
Make sure you visit the large Weapons Room with its collections of weapons and armoury that will plunge you into the world of knightly tournaments. Arquebuses, crossbows and hefty swords bring sparkles to the eyes of young knights!
THE SECRETS OF MARLINSPIKE, AN EXCEPTIONAL EXHIBITION
Welcome to Marlinspike, the home of Captain Haddock! The Château of Cheverny served as a model for Hergé when he designed Marlinspike Hall, which features in several Tintin albums, and it was a natural step for the château to dedicate a permanent exhibition to the most famous cartoon reporter.
Located in an annexe to the château, the exhibition is titled “The Secrets of Marlinspike” and was designed in collaboration with the Fondation Hergé. It covers nearly 700m² and includes incredible life-size reconstructions of settings and scenery that turn the visit into theatrical experience! Some of the rooms in Captain Haddock’s house have been recreated in full scale, it is as though you were really there! Don’t miss out on this immersive experience, especially if you’re a fan of Tintin, his faithful Snowy and all the other famous characters!
DISCOVER THE PARKS AND GARDENS OF THE CHÂTEAU OF CHEVERNY
Set in a beautifully verdant and majestic botanical park, the estate is a place of tranquillity and delight. The parterres surrounding the château echo the symmetry of its facades, creating a sense of harmony that extends to the 100-odd hectares of its English park. Set out to discover the six themed gardens of the château, starting with the Floral Kitchen Garden which provides flowers to adorn the château, the stunning Tulip Garden with its thousands of bulbs that come into bloom in spring, or the Maze, a favourite with both young and old! The park and gardens of Cheverny are also great for walking in, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can roam the estate in a little car or take a bucolic trip on the canal aboard an electric boat, always a popular choice with children!
Events at the château of Cheverny
FAQ
Are there places to eat at the Château of Cheverny?
Café de l’Orangerie welcomes visitors in a splendid 18th-century building, where you can enjoy homemade hot chocolate and artisan ice cream with a stunning view of the château! There are also picnic areas available.
Do I need to book to visit the park and gardens of the Château of Cheverny?
Visits to the park and gardens are unaccompanied, so there is no need to book. A leaflet is available at the entrance to help you organise your visit.
