blois
department: loir-et-cher (41)
region: centre

© Tourist office, Blois

To the north of Blois lie the wind-milled plains of Beauce, while to the south, the lovely landscapes of Sologne. Blois lies at the interface between the limestone geology around Orléans and the more chalky country of Tourraine. The popularity of the region has led to the development of all sorts of leisure activities and a wide variety of organised events. This is certainly the place to get to grips with the history of French royalty, and visitors should plan on spending at least one full day here.

For the castle hunter, there are no fewer than 10 chateaux within 20km (12 miles) of Blois. Prominent among these are Chambord and Cheverny. 

NOT TO BE MISSED

A visit to the Château Royal de Blois (www.chateaudeblois.fr) – the favoured haunt of French kings

Take time out for the Maison de la Magie Robert-Houdin (www.maisondelamagie.fr) – a wonderful museum dedicated to the history of magic

Don't miss a boat trip on the Loire - ask at the tourist information office for information

If you have the time, take a stroll around the Old Town.

© ATOUT FRANCE/Michel Angot