Our 4 hidden châteaux to explore

Impressed by Chenonceau architecture’s elegance? Mastered all the secrets of Chambord? Charmed by Cheverny and its beautiful gardens? It’s time to take a different path and discover 4 châteaux less known — more intimate, less crowded, and full of surprises. Let the adventure begin!

🏰 1 - The château de Selles-sur-Cher

Looking for a visit that blends past, present and future? Just 15 minutes from the ZooParc de Beauval and right in the middle of the town center, the château de Selles-sur-Cher is a must-see!

On the historical side, over 1,000 years of stories and surprises await. From Renaissance pavilions to a medieval château, and a stunning 2-hectare park filled with majestic, century-old trees — there’s plenty to see… and a lot to do. In the present, take a moment to enjoy a wine tasting in the château’s cellar, then indulge your sweet tooth with honey produced right on site. While the bees work, the kids play and the parents relax. Not bad, right?

What more could you ask for? Maybe a 3D tour of the château’s evolution using one of the digital tablets available. Or why not an afternoon in Dashanpu, the estate’s dinosaur park with over 50 life-sized creatures. We told you the surprises wouldn’t stop! 😉

3 reasons to visit the château de Selles-sur-Cher:

💜 To explore its rich history at your own pace.
💜 To enjoy the interactive game “The Forgetten Oath” which is perfect for families.
💜 To stroll through the three royal moods of its park: sunny and floral in the front courtyard, romantic and serene in the main courtyard, and traditional with vines in the medieval courtyard.

Find out more right here!

Destination Villes Village Chateau Selles Sur Cher

🏰 2 - The château de Bouges

The unique spirit of the Enlightenment lingers here, in what is affectionately known as the “Little Trianon of Berry”. No Marie-Antoinette playing the shepherdess here — just a discreet and dignified 18th-century château that has retained all its charm. Lovingly restored by passionate owners, the estate now welcomes visitors into its elegant interiors, its formal French gardens, and its peaceful parkland. And so much more…

Are you a horse lover? Then you have at least one thing in common with the former master of the house! Step into his personal “temple” dedicated to the equestrian arts, featuring a luxury saddle room, solid oak stalls in the small stable, and an authentic collection of horse-drawn carriages.

A stroll through the château’s greenhouse and its vibrant colors, and here you are in the pavilion’s private apartments. Each room has its own unique atmosphere, all framed by the elegance and refinement of a bygone era. Life in a château has never looked so good…

3 reasons to visit the château de Bouges:

💜 To share an exceptional moment as a couple in a truly special setting.
💜 To enjoy the tranquility of the English-style park near the hunting pavilions.
💜 To admire the elegant and beautifully preserved interior of the residence.

Find out more right here!

🏰 3 - The château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre

Once upon a time, there was a small château that never, ever went to war… And for a good reason: this 15th-century fortress was built in times of peace, designed purely for defense. Back then, it was a common way for barons to show off their power and influence across the region.

Small in size, big in discovery! Often considered a model medieval fortress, this hidden gem features a murder-hole gatehouse, a round tower, a keep, and a classic drawbridge. It’s the perfect setting to awaken the magic of fairy tales, and young adventurers are quickly swept away! Everyone’s ready? The tour begins in the graceful main courtyard, continues through the residential wing, and leads you beneath an impressive covered gallery, inspired by Italian Renaissance style and the château de Blois.

Ready to climb a bit? After a good set of stairs, you’ll reach the remarkable wooden framework, shaped like an upside-down ship, for a spectacular view from the top.

Did you know?

“Bièvre” is an old French word for beaver! These animals were once common in the river running through the village that now hosts the château. A story that truly has both a tail and tale.🦫

3 reasons to visit the château de Fougères-sur-Bièvre:

💜 For its unique blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
💜 To rescue princesses (and princes!) and fight off fierce dragons.
💜 To explore its kitchen garden by the riverside.

Find out more right here!

©OT Sud Val de Loire - Agence Les Conteurs

🏰 4 - The château de Chémery

No tour of the Loire Valley’s châteaux would be complete without visiting this human-scale estate, which also welcomes overnight guests! Thanks to extensive restoration work by its dedicated owners, this 12th-century medieval fortress has been transformed into a charming cottage and bed & breakfasts! So, rather a canopy bed or a half-timbered suite tonight?

Curious visitors just passing by can still soak up the medieval atmosphere of the moat, drawbridge and open-air theatre, with a peaceful stop at the estate’s orangery. And why not add a visit to the nearby ZooParc de Beauval while you’re here? A chance to explore another kingdom — this time, a wilder one!

Find out more right here!

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