The Castle of Cheverny
Explore the Loire Valley from the Heart of Sologne
Nestled in the heart of the Sologne, surrounded by forests, lakes, and picturesque villages, Camping Étang de Sologne Sunêlia offers a relaxing escape just a stone’s throw from one of the Loire Valley’s most stunning castles: the Château de Cheverny. This gem of French heritage, continuously inhabited by the same family for over six centuries, is known for its graceful architecture, luxurious interiors, and enchanting themed gardens. It even inspired Hergé’s famous Marlinspike Hall in the adventures of Tintin!
Staying at our campsite means enjoying a peaceful, natural setting, perfectly located to explore the castles of the Loire, experience the cultural richness of the region, and soak up the laid-back lifestyle of the Centre-Val de Loire. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or as a couple, let yourself be swept away by a getaway where nature, heritage, and relaxation come together.
History & Family Heritage
Dive into the heart of the 17th century with a castle where classic elegance meets architectural excellence.
The Château de Cheverny embodies the great French architectural tradition of the 17th century, with rare elegance and stylistic uniformity that make it a model of classicism. It was built between 1624 and 1634 on the foundations of an old feudal manor, initiated by Henri Hurault, lord of Cheverny and advisor to King Louis XIII. From its construction, the castle stands out for the refinement of its proportions, the luminous whiteness of its Bourré stone, and its sumptuous interior decoration.
An exceptional family history, more than six centuries of a living link between past and present.
What truly makes Cheverny unique is its uninterrupted family history. Owned by the Hurault de Vibraye family for over six centuries, it is still inhabited today by the direct descendants of the founder, who live in the private wing. This living link between past and present gives the estate a rare authenticity, far from frozen museums.
Unlike many castles stripped of their soul, Cheverny has preserved an exceptionally complete period furniture collection, passed down through generations. Sumptuously furnished rooms, adorned with tapestries, woodwork, and precious objects, allow visitors to immerse themselves in aristocratic life of the past.
Enter a universe where each room tells the story of aristocratic life in the past, preserved in its original splendor.
Each generation of owners has worked not only to preserve the place but also to open it to the world. Since 1922, Cheverny has been one of the first privately-owned castles open to the public, well before heritage tourism became common. This visionary choice reflects a constant desire to share the beauty of the site while ensuring its longevity.
Cheverny: a castle inhabited and passionately shared, between tradition and innovation.
Even today, the château is managed with passion by its owners, who have skillfully combined historical heritage with contemporary dynamism. Between tradition, transmission, and innovation, Cheverny embodies the art of bringing a monument to life differently: as a lived-in, loved, and vibrant home.
Public Opening — A Trailblazer
In 1922, long before cultural tourism became widespread, Philippe de Vibraye made a bold and visionary decision: to open the doors of the Château de Cheverny to the general public. At a time when most grand private estates remained closed, Cheverny became one of the first privately-owned castles in France to offer an accessible visitor experience.
This unique initiative reflects the owners’ desire to bring heritage to life by sharing it widely with visitors. More than just a monument, Cheverny became a place of exchange, where history blends with modernity, offering a journey through time enriched by exhibitions, activities, and events for all ages.
Today, this tradition of openness and hospitality remains central to the visitor experience. Touring Cheverny means discovering a living, warm, and authentic heritage site, where every guest is invited to take part in preserving and passing on a historic gem, in a setting that is both respectful and innovative.
Visits & Experiences
The Cheverny estate offers a range of visits and experiences tailored to your interests to fully discover this exceptional site:
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Classic visit: explore the castle and its sumptuous gardens freely, at your own pace.
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Themed tour "The Secrets of Moulinsart": dive into the magical world of Tintin with an immersive exhibition created in partnership with the Hergé Foundation. A unique experience sure to delight fans of all ages.
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Walk in the forest park: from April to November, take a ride in electric buggies or silent boats for a peaceful and eco-friendly exploration of the 100-hectare park.
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For families, a free game booklet is provided for children, guiding them through a fun and educational exploration of the castle and the Tintin exhibition.
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Finally, 45-minute guided tours led by domain experts are available, offering deeper insights into the history of the castle and its family for an even richer experience.
Each visit is designed to provide an unforgettable moment, blending culture, discovery, and entertainment.
Interiors & "The Secrets of Moulinsart" Exhibition
The interiors of Cheverny Castle rank among the richest and best preserved in France. Upon entering, visitors can admire an exceptional heritage collection:
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magnificent Aubusson tapestries,
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elegant Louis XIV furniture,
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an exceptional Boulle commode, a masterpiece of French cabinetry,
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and historic rooms, including the famous King’s Chamber with a bed that once hosted Henri IV.
Additionally, the "Secrets of Moulinsart" exhibition offers a life-sized immersion into the fascinating world of the Tintin castle. Visitors can explore iconic rooms like Professor Calculus’ laboratory and Captain Haddock’s lounge, creating a fun and cultural experience.
Whether you are a fan of comic books or history, this unique visit offers a true journey into a world where heritage and fiction meet.
Gardens & Forest Park
The Cheverny estate is a true haven of nature and beauty, featuring six themed gardens thoughtfully designed to evolve with the seasons and offer ever-changing experiences:
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The kitchen flower garden, colorful and fragrant, a true delight for the senses.
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The laurel maze, perfect for a fun and mysterious walk.
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The apprentices’ garden, designed to spark the curiosity of young gardeners.
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The tulip ribbon, a burst of colors in spring.
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The Garden of Love, a romantic and enchanting spot, ideal for a stroll for two.
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And finally, the brand new Sweet Garden, a French-style orchard planted in 2020, surprising visitors with its flavors and colors.
Beyond the gardens, the forest park stretches over more than 100 hectares. There you will find a majestic avenue lined with 157 cedars, bald cypresses standing in water, and numerous trails inviting you to explore and relax on long nature walks.
The Dogs of the Estate
At the heart of the Cheverny estate, the kennel houses a pack of about 100 dogs, bred from a unique cross between English foxhounds and French foxhounds. This pack is a strong symbol of the tradition of fox hunting, a historic practice deeply rooted in the identity of the estate.
Although hunting is no longer regularly practiced today, it remains a precious heritage and a mark of respect for the estate’s origins. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the daily feeding of the dogs, an impressive and much-loved moment, especially for children, who get to discover this living and fascinating aspect of Cheverny’s heritage.
This friendly and authentic spectacle offers a special connection to nature and tradition, adding a unique dimension to your visit to the castle.
Practical information for families and visitors
- Accessibility: the castle is not completely accessible to wheelchairs because of the porch, but the exhibition "Moulinsart" is by elevator.
- Strollers: prohibited in the castle, but allowed in the gardens. Changing tables available.
- Animals: not allowed on the site.
- On-site services: shop, tea rooms, toilets, picnic area.
By car
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Distance: about 45 km
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Duration: around 45 minutes
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Recommended route:
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Leave the campsite and take the D924 towards Romorantin-Lanthenay.
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Continue on the D764 heading to Blois.
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Take the exit for Cheverny and follow signs to the Château de Cheverny.
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The castle offers free visitor parking.
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By public transport
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From Romorantin-Lanthenay (about 10 km from the campsite), you can take a regional bus to Blois.
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From Blois, seasonal shuttles or buses may be available to the Château de Cheverny.
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Check local timetables in advance, as public transport can be limited in this area.
By bike
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For cycling enthusiasts, the route is direct and scenic through the Sologne region.
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Expect about a 2-hour ride for the 45 km