Ophorus

History of "Chambord & Chenonceau Castles Tour from Tours (shared)"

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Version 24 – March 14, 2024 09:55

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Full Description
  • Morning visit of Chenonceau Castle
  • This morning, tour to the magnificent Chateau de Chenonceau, nestled in the breathtaking Loire Valley. Known as the "Chateau des Dames," this iconic bridge spanning the Cher River enchants visitors with its rich history and Renaissance gardens, once graced by remarkable female figures such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.
  • Originally dating back to the 13th century, the Chateau suffered destruction by fire before being rebuilt and eventually acquired by King Francis I to settle a debt. Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of Henri II, made her mark on the Chateau, transforming it and adding the arched bridge that gracefully traverses the River Cher. However, upon the king's demise, ownership shifted to Catherine de Medici, who expelled Diane de Poitiers.
  • During Catherine de Medici's tenure, the Chateau underwent extensive renovations and embellishments, and became renowned for hosting lavish nighttime festivities. In 1560, the first fireworks display in France dazzled the skies above this very site.
  • Following Catherine de Medici's passing, the Chateau changed hands multiple times, including ownership by Louise Dupin, famed for hosting a prominent literary salon frequented by luminaries like Voltaire, Montesquieu, Buffon, and Marivaux. The esteemed philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau served as Louise Dupin's secretary and tutored her son.
  • In more recent history, the castle was acquired in 1913 by the Menier family, renowned chocolatiers, who continue to cherish and preserve the Chateau de Chenonceau to this day.
  • Upon your arrival at Chenonceau castle, immerse yourself in a guided tour that unveils a captivating collection of furniture, tapestries, and paintings, including masterpieces by Rubens, Tintoretto, Van Loo, Murillo, Veronese, Poussin, Van Dyck, and more. Explore the castle's highlights, such as Diane de Poitiers' bedroom, the Green Study, the Gallery, and the kitchens. After the guided visit, you'll have free time to wander through the enchanting gardens.
  • Free time for lunch
  • After your morning visit, enjoy some time for lunch (at own expense). Your guide will make recommendations.
  • Afternoon Guided Exploration of Chambord Castle
  • After lunch, venture to Château de Chambord, our second stop on this Loire Valley castle tour. Regarded as one of the most magnificent chateaux in the region, Chambord awaits your discovery. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately one hour, arriving at the breathtaking Château de Chambord. This UNESCO World Heritage site has captivated visitors for centuries.
  • Nestled in the heart of the Sologne region, Chateau de Chambord was commissioned by King Francis I (François Ier) in the early 16th century as a hunting lodge. It was never intended as a permanent residence, but rather a grand showcase of the king's power, designed to impress foreign visitors and ambassadors. The castle's architecture exemplifies the Italian Renaissance style favored during that era.
  • The castle features a central keep with four imposing bastion towers at each corner. With over 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases, Chambord is a testament to architectural grandeur. Its central axis boasts the famous double helix staircase, believed to be inspired by the ingenious mind of Leonardo da Vinci. Ascending three floors, the two helices never intersect, with natural light illuminating their ascent from a lighthouse-like structure atop the castle. 
  • Don't miss the ornate roof, a distinctive feature that sets Château de Chambord apart. Take a stroll along the top level, marveling at the meticulous masonry work and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Interestingly, King Francis I never witnessed the completion of the castle. It was under the reign of King Louis XIV (the Sun King) that Château de Chambord reached its full splendor. Maintaining such a colossal structure proved challenging over the years, and after passing through various private hands, the French State became the sole owner in 1930.
  • Upon arrival, follow your expert guide on a captivating tour of the castle. Lasting approximately 1.5 hours, the tour will lead you through the main rooms, unveil the iconic double spiral staircase, and ascend to the terraces for breathtaking vistas. Afterward, enjoy some free time to further explore the wonders of Château de Chambord at your own pace.
  • As the tour concludes, we'll return to Tours, leaving you with lasting memories of the remarkable Chateau de Chenonceau & Chambord and their storied past.
  • Morning visit of Chenonceau Castle
  • This morning, tour to the magnificent Chateau de Chenonceau, nestled in the breathtaking Loire Valley. Known as the "Chateau des Dames," this iconic bridge spanning the Cher River enchants visitors with its rich history and Renaissance gardens, once graced by remarkable female figures such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.
  • Originally dating back to the 13th century, the Chateau suffered destruction by fire before being rebuilt and eventually acquired by King Francis I to settle a debt. Diane de Poitiers, the mistress of Henri II, made her mark on the Chateau, transforming it and adding the arched bridge that gracefully traverses the River Cher. However, upon the king's demise, ownership shifted to Catherine de Medici, who expelled Diane de Poitiers.
  • During Catherine de Medici's tenure, the Chateau underwent extensive renovations and embellishments, and became renowned for hosting lavish nighttime festivities. In 1560, the first fireworks display in France dazzled the skies above this very site.
  • Following Catherine de Medici's passing, the Chateau changed hands multiple times, including ownership by Louise Dupin, famed for hosting a prominent literary salon frequented by luminaries like Voltaire, Montesquieu, Buffon, and Marivaux. The esteemed philosopher Jean Jacques Rousseau served as Louise Dupin's secretary and tutored her son.
  • In more recent history, the castle was acquired in 1913 by the Menier family, renowned chocolatiers, who continue to cherish and preserve the Chateau de Chenonceau to this day.
  • Upon your arrival at Chenonceau castle, immerse yourself in a guided tour that unveils a captivating collection of furniture, tapestries, and paintings, including masterpieces by Rubens, Tintoretto, Van Loo, Murillo, Veronese, Poussin, Van Dyck, and more. Explore the castle's highlights, such as Diane de Poitiers' bedroom, the Green Study, the Gallery, and the kitchens. After the guided visit, you'll have free time to wander through the enchanting gardens.
  • Free time for lunch in Amboise
  • After your morning visit, reach Amboise where you will have time for personal discovery and lunch (at own expense). Ask your guide for recommendations.
  • Afternoon Guided Exploration of Chambord Castle
  • After lunch, venture to Château de Chambord, our second stop on this Loire Valley castle tour. Regarded as one of the most magnificent chateaux in the region, Chambord awaits your discovery. Enjoy a scenic drive of approximately one hour, arriving at the breathtaking Château de Chambord. This UNESCO World Heritage site has captivated visitors for centuries.
  • Nestled in the heart of the Sologne region, Chateau de Chambord was commissioned by King Francis I (François Ier) in the early 16th century as a hunting lodge. It was never intended as a permanent residence, but rather a grand showcase of the king's power, designed to impress foreign visitors and ambassadors. The castle's architecture exemplifies the Italian Renaissance style favored during that era.
  • The castle features a central keep with four imposing bastion towers at each corner. With over 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases, Chambord is a testament to architectural grandeur. Its central axis boasts the famous double helix staircase, believed to be inspired by the ingenious mind of Leonardo da Vinci. Ascending three floors, the two helices never intersect, with natural light illuminating their ascent from a lighthouse-like structure atop the castle. 
  • Don't miss the ornate roof, a distinctive feature that sets Château de Chambord apart. Take a stroll along the top level, marveling at the meticulous masonry work and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Interestingly, King Francis I never witnessed the completion of the castle. It was under the reign of King Louis XIV (the Sun King) that Château de Chambord reached its full splendor. Maintaining such a colossal structure proved challenging over the years, and after passing through various private hands, the French State became the sole owner in 1930.
  • Upon arrival, follow your expert guide on a captivating tour of the castle. Lasting approximately 1.5 hours, the tour will lead you through the main rooms, unveil the iconic double spiral staircase, and ascend to the terraces for breathtaking vistas. Afterward, enjoy some free time to further explore the wonders of Château de Chambord at your own pace.
  • As the tour concludes, we'll return to Tours, leaving you with lasting memories of the remarkable Chateau de Chenonceau & Chambord and their storied past.
Cancellation notes
  • Operator strictly adheres to its cancellation policy and will make no exceptions to the policy. If Guest chooses to cancel his or her reservation, Operator must receive written notice of said cancellation in writing via certified mail, fax or e-mail sent to [email protected] (with confirmation of receipt from Operator), and Guest shall be subject to the following cancellation fee schedule:
  • Ophorus requires full payment by credit card, internet payment (through our website) or wire transfer (Wire transfer fees at the charge of the Guest) to make a reservation. We accept payment by AMEX, Visa and Master Card. There is no charge or service fee for processing credit card payments except with American Express +3%.
  • For any cancellation, the following fees will be deducted from the refund:
  • > Up to 24 hours prior to departure: no cancellation fees except the booking fees.
  • > 24 hours prior to departure and less > no refund
  • All semi private tours depart on time. Clients should present themselves at the allocated meeting point at least 10 minutes before the beginning of the tour. Driver/guide will not wait unless Ophorus has been previously informed that the client will be late with a maximum waiting time of 10 minutes. Beyond that waiting time, tours will depart and Ophorus cannot be held responsible for clients missing their tour.

Version 23 – March 14, 2024 09:53

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Description
  • Join us for a remarkable day as we pick you up in front of the Tourism Office in Tours, ready to explore the enchanting Loire Valley and its renowned castles. Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide, an expert in local history, especially the Loire Valley chateaux. Once acquainted, your guide will provide an overview of the day's program and itinerary. Step into our comfortable, premium air-conditioned vehicle and embark on the captivating Loire Valley Chateau Route.
  • 09:30 AM : Pick up at centrally located meeting point in Tours
  • 10:15 AM : Guided tour of Château Chenonceau 
  • 12:15 PM : Free time for lunch (at own expense) 
  • 01:45 PM :  Depart from Amboise to Chambord Castle
  • 02:45 PM :  Guided visit of Chateau de Chambord
  • 04:30 PM : Depart from Château de Chambord
  • 05:30 PM : Drop off in front of Tours Tourism Office
  • Join us for a remarkable day as we pick you up in front of the Tourism Office in Tours, ready to explore the enchanting Loire Valley and its renowned castles. Meet your knowledgeable English-speaking driver/guide, an expert in local history, especially the Loire Valley chateaux. Once acquainted, your guide will provide an overview of the day's program and itinerary. Step into our comfortable, premium air-conditioned vehicle and embark on the captivating Loire Valley Chateau Route.
  • 09:30 AM : Pick up at centrally located meeting point in Tours
  • 10:15 AM : Guided tour of Château Chenonceau 
  • 12:15 PM : Free time for lunch (at own expense) in Amboise
  • 01:45 PM :  Depart from Amboise to Chambord Castle
  • 02:45 PM :  Guided visit of Chateau de Chambord
  • 04:30 PM : Depart from Château de Chambord
  • 05:30 PM : Drop off in front of Tours Tourism Office

Version 22 – September 13, 2023 10:55

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle. 
  • Instant booking confirmation.
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 persons.
  • Tour requires minimum 2 passengers (adults) to operate. 
  • In case minimum numbers are not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund your tour.
  • If you are traveling with infants, please request a private tour.
  • Instant booking confirmation.
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 persons.
  • Tour requires minimum 2 passengers (adults) to operate. 
  • In case minimum numbers are not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund your tour.
  • If you are traveling with infants, please request a private tour.

Version 21 – September 13, 2023 10:25

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Previous Version
Excluded
  • gratuities for the driver/guide., hotel pickup and drop-off., meals and drinks., personal insurance and expenses.
  • entrance tickets other than mentioned, gratuities for the guide, meals & drinks, personal insurance & expenses

Version 20 – September 13, 2023 10:17

Current Version
Previous Version
Cancellation notes
  • Operator strictly adheres to its cancellation policy and will make no exceptions to the policy. If Guest chooses to cancel his or her reservation, Operator must receive written notice of said cancellation in writing via certified mail, fax or e-mail sent to [email protected] (with confirmation of receipt from Operator), and Guest shall be subject to the following cancellation fee schedule:
  • Ophorus requires full payment by credit card, internet payment (through our website) or wire transfer (Wire transfer fees at the charge of the Guest) to make a reservation. We accept payment by AMEX, Visa and Master Card. There is no charge or service fee for processing credit card payments except with American Express +3%.
  • For any cancellation, the following fees will be deducted from the refund:
  • > Up to 24 hours prior to departure: no cancellation fees except the booking fees.
  • > 24 hours prior to departure and less > no refund
  • All semi private tours depart on time. Clients should present themselves at the allocated meeting point at least 10 minutes before the beginning of the tour. Driver/guide will not wait unless Ophorus has been previously informed that the client will be late with a maximum waiting time of 10 minutes. Beyond that waiting time, tours will depart and Ophorus cannot be held responsible for clients missing their tour.
  • Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund
  • Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

Version 19 – September 13, 2023 10:14

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Instant booking confirmation.
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 persons.
  • Tour requires minimum 2 passengers (adults) to operate. 
  • In case minimum numbers are not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund your tour.
  • If you are traveling with infants, please request a private tour.
  • Instant booking confirmation.
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 persons.
  • Tour requires minimum 2 passengers (adults) to operate. If minimum number is not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund the tour.
  • If you are traveling with children, please request a private tour.
  • In case minimum numbers are not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund your tour.

Version 18 – September 13, 2023 09:58

Current Version
Previous Version
Terms and conditions
  • All our terms & conditions can be found here: https://www.ophorus.com/terms-sales
  • Please contact us for all our Terms & Conditions

Version 17 – September 13, 2023 09:51

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Blocked dates
  • 2024-01-01, 2024-05-01, 2024-12-25

Version 12 – July 08, 2023 16:48

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Previous Version
Product Name
  • Chambord & Chenonceau Castles Tour from Tours (shared)
  • CHAMBORD & CHENONCEAU CASTLES FULL DAY FROM TOURS shared

Version 11 – June 28, 2023 14:24

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Previous Version
Tier ages
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '13'
  • to: '99'
  • child:
  • from: '5'
  • to: '12'
  • ---
  • adult:
  • from: '18'
  • to: '64'
  • child:
  • from: '5'
  • to: '11'

Version 10 – June 28, 2023 14:23

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Previous Version
Trip difficulty
  • Moderate

Version 9 – June 28, 2023 14:22

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Previous Version
Instant confirmation
  • true
  • false

Version 8 – June 28, 2023 14:21

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Duration from
  • 8.0
Duration unit
  • hours
  • minutes

Version 7 – June 28, 2023 14:20

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Address
  • Address:

  • Address:
  • Address: ,

  • Address: ,

Version 5 – June 28, 2023 14:18

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Previous Version
Location
  • Name: Tours
  • Search name: Tours, France
Starts notes
  • Meet your guide in front of the Tours Tourism office.
Address
  • Address:

  • Address:
  • Address: Ophorus Day Trips & Wine Tours in France, Boulevard Pierre 1er, Bordeaux, France,

  • Address: Tourist Office Tours Loire Valley, Rue Bernard Palissy, Tours, France,

Version 4 – June 28, 2023 14:18

Current Version
Previous Version
Group info
  • We can handle any group size (from 8 people) ranging from small groups to large groups of hundreds of people. Transportation options include private vehicles, mini-vans, mini-buses and large buses.
  • Just get in touch to find out more! Contact us by email: [email protected] (groups from 8 people)
  • For groups of 2-8 people please fill out this form: ophorus.com/contact-us/
Voucher info
  • Please contact us for all our terms & conditions

Version 3 – June 28, 2023 14:18

Current Version
Previous Version
Additional Info
  • Instant booking confirmation.
  • Small groups of 2 to 8 persons.
  • Tour requires minimum 2 passengers (adults) to operate. If minimum number is not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund the tour.
  • If you are traveling with children, please request a private tour.
  • In case minimum numbers are not reached we will offer to reschedule or refund your tour.
Booking cutoff
  • 15
Valid_for
  • 4
Know Before You Go
  • currency is in euros, departs from tours tourism office, please be ready 10 minutes before arrival time, wear good walking shoes
  • please be ready 10 minutes before arrival time
Know Before You Book
  • children under 4 years old are not allowed on the tour, instant booking confirmation, prices are per person, this tour is not wheelchair accessible, tour is operated in english
Cancellation policy
  • standard
  • custom

Version 2 – June 28, 2023 14:14

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Previous Version
Highlights
  • chambord castle, a renaissance masterpiece, cross the enchanting bridge of chenonceau castle , enjoy a seamless and stress-free full-day tour, explore lavishly decorated chambers, gardens, and grounds
  • cross the enchanting bridge of chenonceau castle and marvel at its architecture, enjoy a seamless and stress-free full-day tour, explore lavishly decorated chambers, gardens, and grounds at both castles, immerse yourself in the grandeur of chambord castle, a renaissance masterpiece

Version 1 – June 28, 2023 14:13

Current Version
Previous Version
Product Name
  • CHAMBORD & CHENONCEAU CASTLES FULL DAY FROM TOURS shared
  • CHAMBORD & CHENONCEAU CASTLES FULL DAY FROM TOURS (shared)
Description Summary
  • Embark on a captivating full-day tour from Tours to the enchanting Chenonceau and Chambord castles in the magnificent Loire Valley. 
  • Discover UNESCO sites, architectural marvels, exquisite gardens, and a wealth of history.
  • Embark on a captivating full-day tour from Tours, France, to the enchanting Chenonceau and Chambord castles in the magnificent Loire Valley. Discover UNESCO sites, architectural marvels, exquisite gardens, and a wealth of history. Enjoy an English-guided tour in both castles.
Highlights
  • cross the enchanting bridge of chenonceau castle and marvel at its architecture, enjoy a seamless and stress-free full-day tour, explore lavishly decorated chambers, gardens, and grounds at both castles, immerse yourself in the grandeur of chambord castle, a renaissance masterpiece
  • cross the enchanting bridge of chenonceau castle and marvel at its architecture, enjoy a seamless and stress-free full-day tour, departing from tours in the loire valley, explore lavishly decorated chambers, gardens, and grounds at both castles, immerse yourself in the grandeur of chambord castle, a renaissance masterpiece