Chateau Chambord | Sologne Heritage | Camping Sunêlia Etang de Sologne

Chambord Castle in Sologne

Chambord Castle: a Renaissance masterpiece

Just a short distance from l’Étang de Sologne Sunêlia, stands one of France’s most iconic landmarks: the Château de Chambord. A true masterpiece of the Renaissance, it embodies the artistic boldness of François Iᵉʳ, and draws its mysterious charm from a perfect balance of architectural brilliance and natural serenity.

Built from 1519 on a vast forest estate, this royal château has preserved for five centuries the visionary ambition of a king-builder. Its famous double-helix staircase, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, is its boldest feature: two spiraling stairways winding without ever crossing, offering visitors a truly unique experience. The estate, covering 5,440 hectares — the largest enclosed forest park in Europe — is a haven of wild nature, where flora and fauna thrive along walking, cycling, or carriage trails.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, Chambord is more than an architectural marvel: it’s an invitation to explore, with immersive tours, cultural events, restored royal gardens, and a timeless atmosphere of majesty.

Through the Centuries: The Story of Chambord

A Monumental Vision by François I (1519–1547)

The Château de Chambord was commissioned in 1519 by François I, a king passionate about art and hunting. Far from being a permanent residence, the château was conceived as a powerful symbol to impress sovereigns and foreign ambassadors.

Completed Under Louis XIV (17th Century)

The construction continued beyond François I and was only completed under Louis XIV. During this time, stables were built, the Cosson river was redirected, and the king himself stayed at Chambord several times. Notably, Molière premiered Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme here in 1670.

Interior Enhancements and Noble Guests (18th Century)

In the 18th century, the château became more livable. It hosted Stanislas Leszczynski, former King of Poland (1725–1733), and later Marshal of Saxony, who adapted the interiors with wood paneling, parquet floors, false ceilings, and private rooms.

From Private to Public (19th–20th Centuries)

During the French Revolution, Chambord was looted but spared from destruction. In 1809, Napoleon gave it to Marshal Berthier. Later, in 1821, the Duke of Bordeaux inherited it and began restoration efforts. After his death (1883), the property passed to the Bourbon-Parma family, before being officially purchased by the French State in 1930.

A National Treasure (20th–21st Centuries)

Already listed as a historic monument in 1840, the domain became national property in 1915, then officially acquired by the state in 1930. The park and walls were protected in 1997, and UNESCO listed Chambord as a World Heritage Site in 1981. In 2005, a public establishment was created to manage and protect the château and its vast grounds.

Architecture of Château de Chambord

A Mysterious Design

The true architect of the château remains unknown, as much of the documentation was lost in the 18th century. However, the extraordinary design strongly suggests the influence of Leonardo da Vinci, particularly in its structure and innovative features.

A Greek Cross Layout

At the heart of the château stands the keep, a square structure with four corner towers. Its internal layout is based on a Greek cross, rare in civil architecture at the time. This plan creates a sense of sacred harmony, with four symmetrical rooms arranged around a central staircase.

The Famous Double-Helix Staircase

At the center of the keep lies the iconic double-helix staircase. Made of two intertwined spirals that never intersect, it serves as the architectural “spine” of the building — a technical and artistic marvel that continues to fascinate visitors.

Facades and Rooftop: A Renaissance Castle with Medieval Flair

The façades feature precise, geometric organization, with pilasters and moulded bands reminiscent of Roman antiquity, reimagined in Renaissance style. The rooftop is adorned with dormer windows, chimneys, and stair towers, evoking the look of a medieval fortress — a deliberate symbol of royal authority.

Sculpted Coffered Vaults

On the second floor, the central hall is covered by majestic coffered vaults richly decorated with royal emblems: salamanders, the letter "F", and cord motifs. These carvings honor François I while hiding a clever rainwater drainage system built into the structure.

Panoramic Terraces and an Iconic Silhouette

From the terraces, visitors enjoy a 360° view of the surrounding forest and the château’s spectacular rooftop details. The lantern tower, rising to 56 m, marks the highest point — a striking feature in the château’s unmistakable silhouette.

Les Jardins de Chambord: a royal green setting

The French-style Gardens: classic elegance rediscovered

Imagine yourself strolling in perfectly drawn paths, between geometric flower beds, topiary and majestic tree alignments. Carefully restored in 2017, these gardens are one of the largest landscape restoration projects in France for 20 years.

More than 600 trees, 15,000 plants and roses in bloom welcome you on nearly 7 hectares.
A grandiose walk in the spirit of the 18th century, as if Louis XIV himself had invited you.
All with a breathtaking view of the castle facades.

Not to be missed: the panoramic views from the terraces of the castle, to admire the perfect designs of these gardens from the air.

The English-style Garden: romantic charm and free nature

For a more poetic and wild atmosphere, the English garden offers you a completely different setting. Here, winding paths, isolated trees, natural groves and plant openings punctuate the walk.

Let yourself be surprised by the contrast with the rigor of French gardens.
This garden, designed to harmonize with nature, is perfect for a quiet break or a contemplative walk.
Photo enthusiasts will find exceptional perspectives on the castle through the foliage.

Chambord 1939–1945: Save "a bit of the beauty of the world"

An exceptional refuge for art in peril

From 28 August 1939, Chambord was chosen to house thousands of boxes filled with masterpieces from the National Museums, in order to protect them from bombings and Nazi plunder. The works of Paris — including The Mona Lisa, Liberty Leading the People, or The Lady and the Unicorn—were transcribed here in a climate of secrecy and determination

Anonymous witnesses of history

This historical episode is now told in a permanent exhibition accessible from the terraces of the castle: "Chambord, 1939–1945: save a bit of the beauty of the world." It articulates nine themes, mixing vintage photos, bilingual documents, films and immersive scenographies.

Castle activities

Leisure activities

Enjoy Chambord from a new perspective: rent electric buggies (4 people, €29 for 45 min, €25 with Passeport), rosalie carts or bikes (varied rates), and electric boats for a unique water view

Shows & Events

Throughout the season, the Domaine de Chambord offers a wide range of shows and events, designed to delight children and adults alike.

Programming 2025:

New equestrian show (Mario Luraschi, Cavalcade company) starting April 5: immersive scenes spanning 500 years of history 
Chambord Festival (June 29 – July 12): eclectic concerts (classical, jazz, chamber music) in the French gardens and courtyard 
“Les Étoiles au château” July 15–16: ballet stars from the Paris Opera perform in the gardens, accompanied by musicians; flat rate €13
Monumental Tour (September 19, European Heritage Days): night show with video mapping and electronic music projected on the château’s façade

Tours & Visits

Guided tour (1 h30, recommended from ~7‑8 years): explore Chambord’s history and architecture (€7/adult, €4/child) 
In-depth tour (3 h, small group): access hidden areas such as attics and service stairs (€15/person) 
Family interactive tour (1 h30, children 5‑10): follow historical characters and solve puzzles (€7/person) 
Prestige visit: 1 h30 guided tour + glass of champagne, exclusive access to hidden areas, up to 30 people, available year‑round by reservation

Children & Families

A day with your children: includes HistoPad, horse & birds-of-prey show, stone‑carving workshop, boutique visit .
Family workshops: stone‑carving initiation, nature trail, rando‑nature, nature workshop… a fun and immersive experience for all ages

Practical Information for Visiting Château de Chambord

Opening Hours

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM).
Usually closed in early January for annual maintenance.
Hours may vary during special events or seasons.

On-Site Services

Guided tours: available in French and several other languages.
Audioguides: available for rent.
Shops & bookstore: souvenirs, books, local crafts.
Restaurants & cafés: perfect for a tasty break in the park.
Accessibility (PRM): adapted paths and assistance available.

Contacts

Château de Chambord

- Phone: +33 (0)2 54 50 40 00
- Email: contact@chambord.org
- Website: www.chambord.org

Route

By car

From the campsite, take the D940 towards Chaumont-sur-Tharonne.
Continue on D940, then take the D33 towards Chambord.
Follow signs to Château de Chambord and the official parking lot.
Free parking available onsite

By bike

Recommended route via departmental roads and bike paths, following D940 then D33.
Enjoy a beautiful ride through the natural landscapes of the Sologne region.