In the heart of Touraine, between Amboise and Blois, Chaumont-sur-Loire welcomes you for an enchanting visit filled with history and botany. The Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire, which dates back to the 10th century, has a rich and eventful history. Originally built as a fortress by the Count of Blois to protect the town from attacks by the Count of Anjou, it has changed hands among several noble families over the centuries.
The château has been reconstructed and enhanced multiple times, especially in the late 15th and early 16th centuries, transitioning from a Gothic style to one more influenced by the Renaissance. It has belonged to significant historical figures, including Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers, who exchanged it for the Château de Chenonceau.
Since 1992, the Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire and its grounds have hosted the International Garden Festival, which has grown in success year after year. This unique event attracts landscapers and artists from around the world, transforming the estate into a true laboratory of contemporary landscape creation.
On the wine side, Chaumont is an excellent starting point to discover the Touraine-Mesland appellation, with the eponymous village located just a few kilometers away. This appellation, recognized since 1955, produces red, white, and rosé wines. The reds are made from Gamay, Cabernet Franc, and Côt, while the whites are produced from Chenin Blanc. These wines reflect the unique terroir of the region, offering fruity flavors and great freshness.
Around Chaumont-sur-Loire, you can continue your “Wines and Castles” tour by heading to Amboise, Blois, or Cheverny. Amboise will allow you to discover the Touraine-Amboise appellation while visiting the royal château and the Clos Lucé, the last residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Blois offers the opportunity to explore its impressive royal château and the surrounding vineyards. Cheverny, with its château that inspired Hergé for Moulinsart, also allows you to taste wines from the Cheverny appellation.
This region truly offers a wealth of choices for wine and history enthusiasts. Whether you are passionate about the architecture of the Loire châteaux, enjoy extraordinary gardens, or are a wine lover seeking new discoveries, the Chaumont-sur-Loire area will captivate you with its diversity and richness.
Want to visit a cellar near Chaumont-sur-Loire? Absolutely, it’s a must! Among the closest winemakers to the château, be sure to taste the wonderful Touraine wines at Domaine des Pierrettes, where a warm welcome is guaranteed. On the opposite bank of the Loire, Domaine de Rabelais and the beautiful wines from Domaine Les Vaucorneilles will take you to the lands of the Touraine Mesland appellation, offering unbeatable value for money.
