Chateau list?

My absolute favorite is Chenonceau, followed by Chambord and Blois. But honestly, I like all of them.

Susan hit the big 3. My favorites are either Chenonceaux or Chambord.

For a very different feel think about Chinon, particularly if you are at all interested in English (Plantagenet) history. It's a ruin so it's very different from the others. I visited it and then visited Fontevraud Abbey where Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II and Richard the Lionhearted are all buried. I really enjoyed both and it was a change of pace from the other Chateaux which are magnificent. Pam

I asked the same question a year ago on this board prior to our trip to France in September. Here are my recommendations: (1) Chenonceau - absolutely #1; (2) Villandry - only toured the gardens, which are incredible; (3) Cheverny - if you're a dog lover, a must. Plus the descendants of the original owners still live there, giving it an altogether different feel; (4) Blois - attended the Wednesday night, English, light and sound show. Didn't make Chambord but would have loved to included it.

I echo the big three: Chenanceau; Chambord; Blois. We also really liked Langeais- different like a mediaeval castle in the middle of the town/village; and Azay-Le-Rideau, smaller but like a small fairytale castle (we also did son et lumiere here, standing around on the lawn with the local folk). Not very high on Amboise- but I think the top five spoiled it for me. I was inducted into the local wine covocation in Chinon chateau at night with the brotherhood all in colorful robes- quite impressive- so I am a little biased toward that chateau

Chenonceaux and Villandry. Get the Michelin Guide to Chateaux of the Loire for more information on each one. We were there for 5 days and we saw also Chambord, Cheverny and several others. Da Vinci's home in Amboise (rather than the chateau there) is AMAZING. Villandry's gardens completely lives up to the billing; to describe them as amazing is an understatement. Have a great time!

Chambord, built by Francis I based on inspiration from Leonardo.

Donna: Chenonceau is always hig on everyone's list for good reason. Another favorite of ours is Cheverny. The house and grounds are lovely and the daily feeding of the hunting dogs is not to be missed. My only other advice is that despite your best intentions and enthusiasm - chateaux and cathedrals start wearing on you after two or three locations. Do research ahead and choose wisely. Since you are staying in Chenonceaux be sure to eat (and stay too) at La Roseraie. The cuisine is outstanding. Have fun.

Thank you so much to all of you!! It does help to have personal opinions and to narrow down the options (there are so many!!). Yes, Jon, we are staying AND eating at La Roseraie...based on glowing reviews!! I have a list of chateaus in order of recommendation so we will see how many we manage. We do tend to get sidetracked in the charming villages so may only see 2 or 3 chateaus this trip. Whatever.....it will all be good!!! Thanks for the suggestions!!!

Great choice in staying at La Roseraie. I suppose you have reservations for dinner as there is limited seating. The food is fantastic. It is just a short walk from La Roseraie to the Chateau. We went right after breakfast and was there when it opened and by doing so beat the crowds that tend to come in a little later. We then were able to drive on to Chambord for an afternoon visit. Both Chateau's are well worth the time to see.

La Rosarie(sp) is great. Another restaurant we enjoyed many years ago- La Bon Laboruer- hope its still around

Clos Luce- Da Vinci's house- very interesting

Definitely Chambord. My favorite by far. Also recommend Clos Lucé as others have. Although not a grand chateau, it's neat to sit by the window and think that da Vinci once sat there!