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If you are reading this, you are likely a lover of fine travel and surely familiar with the concept of the "Big Five"—the five animal species that are absolute must-sees on an African safari (you will find the answer at the bottom of this article).
The Loire and its valley offer another, even more impressive "Big Five": its châteaux. By staying at our hotel in Romorantin, you are no more than an hour away from any of them.
Let’s discover them:
Chambord, a masterpiece commissioned by Francis I, impresses visitors with its double-helix staircase, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. A symbol of power and architectural daring, it dominates the Sologne region and its forest with a truly majestic presence.
In Blois, the Royal Château—a stage for French history—captivates with its four wings, each featuring a different style ranging from Flamboyant Gothic to Renaissance. It was from this commanding palace that Louise of Savoy, mother of Francis I, wielded her influence.
Cheverny, with its symmetrical facades and formal French-style gardens, appeals to lovers of classic elegance. It also captivated the cartoonist Hergé, who drew inspiration from it to create Marlinspike Hall (*Château de Moulinsart*), the iconic estate from *The Adventures of Tintin*.
Chenonceau, nicknamed the "Ladies' Château," charms visitors with its Italian-inspired elements and romantic history, shaped by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici. The former gave it its famous bridge spanning the Cher River, while the latter added two vast galleries spanning two levels.
Finally, the more intimate Valençay reveals a unique blend of architectural lines and an English-style park where the spirit of the Napoleonic general Talleyrand seems to linger. To explore these treasures, the Hôtel Lion d’Or 1774 in Romorantin is the ideal base. After a day of sightseeing, return to the peace and prestige of our historic rooms or the excellence of our Michelin-starred restaurant, which celebrates—in its own way—another facet of French culture.
Answer: the lion, the buffalo, the rhinoceros, the leopard, and the elephant—all to be seen at ZooParc de Beauval, just a few kilometers from our hotel.
