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Staying at the Lion d’Or 1774 means living in tune with the rhythm of the Loire Valley castles.
Here, the history of France unfolds before you, within the walls of our Renaissance mansion and among the great sites of the Valley of the Kings. Chambord and its double-helix staircase, Cheverny and its classical elegance, Chenonceau and its romantic charm… Each château tells a story of our heritage.
And between visits, you’ll find at the Lion d’Or the comfort of an exceptional home, where Michelin-starred cuisine, peaceful rooms, and a warm welcome combine to make your stay a unique experience.
Le Lion d’Or 1774: Five Centuries of History and the French Art of Living.
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley, between Chambord, Valençay, and Amboise, Le Lion d’Or 1774 is much more than a hotel: it is an open book on the history of France. It all began in the early 16th century, when Jean Gitton, Lord of Montgiron and a close associate of Francis I, had this Renaissance-style mansion built. At the time, its walls housed the first aldermen and master cloth merchants of Romorantin, already a testament to the town’s influence...
As France’s oldest hotel-restaurant, the Lion d’Or 1774 can proudly claim to offer an unparalleled experience in the art of hospitality.
Our staff and facilities welcome you to a home where you’ll feel truly special, as we strive to fulfill your every desire. If there’s one thing we’ve learned over our 250 years in business, it’s undoubtedly that it’s essential to reinvent ourselves and constantly challenge the status quo. So here, as always, every detail counts from a discreet smile to personalized attention, to spaces where historic charm blends with contemporary comfort.
Natural elegance, attentive service, and the assurance of experiencing unique moments all of which, we hope, will bring you back to stay with us.
Staying at Le Lion d'Or 1774 places you in an ideal central location for exploring the Loire Valley châteaux. Discover a selection of must-see sites that bear witness to France's rich history.
Amidst the winding curves of the Loire, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies a landscape where history and nature harmonize. Here, the châteaux recount centuries of royal splendor: Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece featuring a unique double-helix staircase, and Chenonceau, an elegant stone bridge spanning the Cher River. Perched on its promontory, Amboise guards the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, while Villandry captivates visitors with its symmetrical gardens, a true Renaissance gem.
Yet, the Loire Valley is also a land of bountiful terroir. The vineyards of Vouvray, Montlouis, and Chinon spread across sun-drenched slopes, inviting you to sample dry or sweet white wines and fruity reds. Troglodyte cellars, carved directly into the tufa limestone, offer a fascinating glimpse into the art of winemaking, blending tradition with innovation.
Whether cycling along greenways, cruising the Loire, or visiting wine estates, every moment brings a new discovery. It is a living legacy, a heritage to be savored just as much as it is admired.
Established in the Middle Ages, Romorantin served as a fortified stronghold thanks to its strategic location between Tours and Orléans. The town owes part of its renown to the royal family, who made it their residence, and to Leonardo da Vinci, who stayed at the Clos Lucé. In the 16th century, it flourished through trade and craftsmanship—particularly cloth manufacturing. Its heritage, highlighted by the Church of Saint-Étienne and its half-timbered houses, remains a testament to this vibrant past.
Today, the town serves as an excellent starting point for your visit to the region. The Sologne Museum immerses visitors in local history, while easily accessible ponds—such as the Brouard—and state forests offer unspoiled landscapes perfect for hiking or wildlife watching. A quintessential provincial town, it boasts a charming weekly market that is a must-visit, alongside artisan workshops that keep ancestral skills alive. It is a destination where heritage, nature, and culture come together.