Top 5 things to do in a B&B near Blois

Ideally located close to the famous Loire castles and the wine route, Blois, a commune in the Loir-et-Cher region, is distinguished by its remarkable architectural heritage. Its ideal position on the banks of the river makes this town a must for your B&B vacation near Blois, in central France.

1 – Visit the châteaux of the Loire Valley

During your stay in a B&B in Blois, discover the Loire castles, the region’s prestigious historical heritage.

Chateau de Chambord

Located 17 km from Blois, the Château de Chambord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a symbol of the Renaissance. During your visit, wander through the château’s corridors and apartments, magnificently decorated with rich tapestries and period furniture. Stroll through the formal gardens and the many paths in the heart of the estate’s forest.

Chenonceau castle

Just 40 minutes from Blois, this exceptional site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2017, welcomes you all year round. Château de Chenonceau, nicknamed “le château des Dames”, was built by Katherine Briçonnet, who supervised its construction in the 16th century, and protected by such important historical figures as Catherine de Médicis and Diane de Poitiers, who enriched it over the years.

Fougères-sur-Bièvre castle

Located 15 km from Blois, this 15th-century château is comparable to a medieval fortress, but its sober architecture sets it apart from other Loire castles. Discover its inner courtyard, garden and keep, in the heart of the village of Fougères-sur-Bièvre.

Château de Cheverny

From Blois, allow 20 minutes to reach the Cheverny estate. The exceptional architecture of this château inspired Tintin creator Hergé to create the Château de Moulinsart. Open all year round, the château invites you to discover its apartments and salons, its six themed gardens, its kennel and its one hundred hectares of forest.

2 – Take the Loire Valley wine route

From Nantes to Sancerre, via Saumur and Blois, take the Wine Route to discover local wines through the region’s vineyards. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wine Route invites you to discover the châteaux, estates and vineyards along the Loire.

From Pinot noir to Cabernet d’Anjou, via Melon de Bourgogne, taste remarkable grape varieties and learn about oenology.
During your B&B vacation in Blois, explore the Touraine wine route, taste Chenin or the famous Sauvignon and visit the Monmousseau cellars.

Pleasant all year round, the Wine Route changes with the seasons. In spring, nature is in full bloom, and temperatures are pleasant. In summer, the vines bud and the grapes take on their most beautiful colors. In autumn, you’ll encounter fewer people and enjoy the beauty of the autumnal hues.

3 – The Loire by bike from Blois

Follow the Loire à Vélo trails and the city’s many cycle paths, and discover the region in a whole new way. La Loire à Vélo covers a total of 800 km, linking the town of Nevers to the Atlantic Ocean.

From Blois to Chambord: depart from Blois to reach the Château de Chambord. This 43 km walk is accessible to all. Allow one day for this ideal family outing.

From Blois to Saumure: this beautiful 8-day, 178 km itinerary passes through Tours and Amboise. You’ll ride along the Loire castles in the heart of the region’s nature park.

From Blois to Suèvres: this easy 39 km (4 hr.) loop from Blois takes you to the Château de Ménars and the Moulin de Rochechouard, in the heart of the Loir-et-Cher countryside.

4 – Take an excursion on the Loire at Blois

Sail the Loire aboard a toue cabanée, a large traditional boat, and enjoy the scenery along the river. Departing from the Port de la Creusille in Blois, embark for a 1 to 2-hour trip. The pilot will welcome you on board and show you around Blois and its surroundings, and the lush flora and fauna that line the river.

5 – Discover the Royal Château of Blois

You can’t relax in a B&B in Blois without visiting the town, and in particular the Château de Blois. The Château Royal de Blois is renowned for its architecture dating from the 13th to 17th centuries. Listed as a historic monument, the château was the favorite residence of the kings of France.

During your visit, travel back in time and discover the history of the château through the royal apartments, such as the Queen’s bedroom, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and its collection of art and archaeological objects, or the largest room on the estate, the Salle des Etats Généraux.

Attend the sound and light show every evening from April 8 to September 24, in the courtyard of the Royal Castle (except June 21 and July 13). Lasting 45 minutes, this show highlights the architecture of the château. A visual spectacle not to be missed.