The Loire Valley is home to some of France's finest hotels. Hotels nestling on the banks of the river, Renaissance châteaux transformed into charming hotels, cosy guest houses, troglodytic dwellings carved out of the rock or converted former chapels: the offer is as diverse as the landscapes that cross it. We've scoured the region to bring you our pick of the best establishments.
In this article, you'll find our list of the 15 best hotels in the Loire Valley, our advice on how to choose according to your budget and your desires, and a few bonus addresses to take you further.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Where to sleep and our three favorites
Cities where to sleep
The Loire Valley stretches for more than 280km, from Nantes to Orléans, and each town has its own unique hotel identity. NantesNantes, the western gateway to the region, seduces with its unusual design addresses, such as the Sozo Hôtel, housed in a former chapel. Up the river, Angers offers a dense historic center, ideal for sleeping just a stone's throw from the château and vineyards of Angers. Saumur and the surrounding area are a paradise for lovers of troglodytic lodgings, dug into the rock of the tuffeau cliffs, a unique specialty in France.
Further east, Amboise is home to a wealth of characterful hotels, with historic residences and direct views of the royal castle. Blois is the city of reference for those wishing to visit Chambord, Cheverny and Chaumont-sur-Loire from a luxury establishment. Toursthe historic capital of the Loire Valley, offers the widest choice of accommodation, from intimate boutique hotels to century-old grand hotels. Last but not least, Orléans, 1 hour from Paris by train, is often underestimated: its quays along the Loire and its pedestrian center make it a pleasant base from which to explore the eastern part of the region.
Our 3 favorites
Among our selection, three establishments in particular stand out:
- L'Hôtel Spa Fleur de Loire in Blois is, in our eyes, the palace of the region: its two swimming pools, spa, gourmet restaurant and panoramic views of the Loire from the terrace make it an exceptional address.
- Le Château de PerreuxThe Château de Perreux, 10 minutes from Amboise, surprised us with its unique character: an 18th-century troglodytic château lost in the Touraine countryside, with a first floor carved out of the rock, exposed beams and a swimming pool in the heart of the park.
- Le Château de Chissayclose to Chenonceaux, is our favorite for historical immersion: sleeping in this Renaissance château, where Charles VII and Louis XI stayed, in rooms with magnificent parquet floors and carved wooden furniture, is an experience hard to match in the region.
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- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars - one of the best rated sites.
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1. Hôtel Spa Fleur de Loire - Blois, luxury hotel overlooking the Loire River
Why stay there?
Just a 15-minute walk from the historic heart of Blois, Hôtel Spa Fleur de Loire is one of the most prestigious addresses in the Loire Valley. Its panoramic terrace offers stunning views over the rooftops of Blois and the banks of the river. A show we enjoyed at length over breakfast. The clean, white and beige decor lends a soothing elegance that makes this establishment a haven of peace in the heart of the bustling city. We also really appreciated the extensive facilities: two swimming pools, a full spa, a gym and a restaurant whose cuisine matches the setting. A prestigious address!
Pool and spa
- Indoor heated pool, open all year round
- Heated outdoor swimming pool, open in season
- Deckchairs and towels provided
- Spa and wellness center: Jacuzzi, sauna
Practical information
- City: Blois
- District: center de Blois
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: PRM access, elevator, swimming pools, spa, gym, garden, terrace, bar, meeting rooms, bicycle rental
- Parking: private on-site (reservation required), fee-based, valet parking, electric recharging station
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
2. Hotel Château de Perreux - Amboise, troglodytic castle in the countryside
Why stay there?
Just 10 minutes from the center of Amboise, the Château de Perreux is a discovery we were delighted to make. Built in 1701 and extensively remodeled in the 19th century in the Louis XIII style, its first floor is troglodytic, dug right into the rock, giving it a very special atmosphere. The decor is deliberately minimalist, allowing the stonework, wooden frameworks and fireplaces to express themselves fully, with a few contemporary touches that anchor the establishment in our century. We particularly liked the peaceful atmosphere of the place, perfect for an autumn stay by the fireside, and the 19m heated swimming pool, which makes a summer stay just as enjoyable. Owner Olivier Fructus personally looks after the well-being of his guests, giving the place an almost family atmosphere. The park, vegetable garden and beehives that feed the table d'hôte are also well worth a visit. The same goes for the 19th-century Bollée wind turbine, hidden away in the forest. Would you like an authentic experience just minutes from one of the Loire's most visited sites? In our opinion, this château is the ideal address.
Swimming pool and park
- 19m heated outdoor pool
- Park with vegetable garden and beehives
- Forest accessible from the hotel
Practical information
- City: Amboise (10min from the center, commune of Nazelles)
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: table d'hôte
- Family rooms: yes (family suite and quadruple room)
- Amenities: 19m heated pool, park, vegetable garden, beehives, forest, fast-charging station
- Parking: free on site
- Open: early February to late December
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
3. Hotel Château de Chissay - Chenonceaux, Renaissance immersion
Why stay there?
Château de Chissay is primarily a Renaissance château, although its medieval keep has been preserved. It welcomed on several occasions the kings of France Charles VII and Louis XI. Now it's your turn! Converted into a hotel in 1985, it offers 32 rooms, including an extraordinary suite in the old dungeon, with a glass ceiling. We were struck by the richness of the architecture: coats of arms, sculptures, vaulted arches, magnificent parquet floors and carved wooden furniture in shades of cardinal red make up a deeply immersive decor. What's more, once you've closed the heavy wooden door, the place naturally calls for contemplation. It takes us back five centuries. The hotel has also opted not to offer wifi or television, a real bonus for those seeking total disconnection. The swimming pool is clearly not of the period, but is more than welcome in fine weather.
Pool and services
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Bar under the gallery arches in fine weather
- Castle park
Practical information
- Town: Chissay-en-Touraine, 20min from Amboise and near Chenonceaux
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes (vaulted room)
- Family rooms: yes (several rooms for 3 people, children's beds possible)
- Facilities: swimming pool, bar, park, no wifi or TV
- Parking: free on site
- Open: early May to mid-November
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
4. Hôtel Château des Forges - Angers, contemporary country estate
Why stay there?
Just 10 minutes from the center of Angers, Château des Forges is one of the most pleasantly surprising addresses in the region. Built in the 19th century by a wealthy industrialist from Anjou, recently restored by an antique dealer and now managed by the Slow Village group, the establishment exudes a resolutely contemporary, Bauhaus-inspired energy, a complete departure from the codes of traditional château hotels. We loved the spaciousness of the rooms. In some urban hotels, the bathroom alone is the size of the room. You'll also appreciate the unobstructed view of the lower Anjou valleys, classified Natura 2000, with not a single building in sight. Breakfast, featuring many homemade products including a memorable chocolate pudding, is served while the mist rises peacefully in the valley. Are you looking for nature and calm just outside Angers, in a setting that's both green and designer? In our opinion, this estate is one of the best options in the region.
Swimming pool and park
- Outdoor swimming pool, open in season
- 6-hectare park overlooking the lower Anjou valleys
Practical information
- City: Angers (10min from city center, 1h from Nantes)
- Area: north of Angers, green setting
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no (breakfast in room)
- Family rooms: yes (several rooms for up to 3 people, studio with terrace)
- Facilities: swimming pool, 6-hectare park, bike rental, games room, golf course, board games, cot
- Parking: free and private on site
- Open: all year round
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
5. Hotel Fontevraud L'Ermitage - Abbaye de Fontevraud, sleep in a monastery
Why stay there?
Sleeping in the heart of Europe's largest monastic city is an experience like no other. Hôtel Fontevraud L'Ermitage is an integral part of theRoyal Abbey of Fontevraud, whose first foundations date back to the 12th century. Le Prieuré Saint Lazare has been completely reinvented as a contemporary 4-star establishment, with 54 uncluttered rooms that respect the historic atmosphere without overpowering it. We liked the fact that the decor was kept sober, allowing the monastic architecture to shine through. Once night falls, the play of light on the illuminated buildings is breathtaking, and a stroll around the abbey grounds is a must. For a culinary experience worthy of the place, we also recommend trying the abbey's gourmet restaurant, run by Michelin-starred chef Thibaut Ruggeri.
Practical information
- Town: Fontevraud-l'Abbaye, east of Saumur
- Neighborhood: Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes (gourmet, Michelin-starred chef Thibaut Ruggeri)
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: exclusive access to the abbey by night, monastic gardens
- Parking: free and private on site
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
6. Logis Demeure de la Vignole - Saumur, unique troglodytic hotel
Why stay there?
Around Saumur, the troglodyte region offers accommodation like few others in France. The Logis Demeure de la Vignole, in Turquant, is the most accomplished example we've visited. The establishment is carved out of the rock, and its incredible indoor pool carved right into the cliff remains one of our most vivid memories of the whole Loire Valley. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the breakfast, featuring local produce, was the final touch. The troglodytic gym adds to the originality of the place. Nestled in the heart of the vineyards, the establishment is also an ideal starting point for discovering the surrounding wineries and wine estates.
Pool and wellness
- 2 swimming pools, including 1 troglodytic (indoor, in the rock)
- Terrace and garden
- Troglodytic gym
Practical information
- Town: Turquant, east of Saumur
- Neighborhood: troglodytic village on the banks of the Loire River
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: 2 pools (1 troglodytic), terrace, garden, troglodytic gym
- Parking: free and private on site
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
7. Hôtel Château de Ternay - authentic guest house in a 15th-century château
Why stay there?
Built in the mid-15th century, Château de Ternay has remained in the same family since 1813. You'll be welcomed by Caroline and Loïc d'Aviau de Ternay, whose passion for their home is infectious. This guest château offers 5 rooms and 2 gîtes in a place that's truly "in its element", frozen in time: the pentagonal keep and round tower with machicolations bear witness to the Renaissance period. We particularly liked the decor of our family suite, with its mix of toile de Jouy and luminous flowery rooms, in the atmosphere of a quaint old family home. The welcome is warm and friendly. In the morning, it's the guests who ring the bell to let us know they're ready for breakfast. The 45-hectare park, whose avenues bear the names of those who made the château's history, is well worth a visit in itself. Our memories of this stay are both intimate and deeply rooted in the history of the Loire.
Practical information
- City: Ternay, 1h10 from Angers and 1h05 from Tours
- Type: guest castle (family guest house)
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no (breakfast in the château dining room)
- Family rooms: yes (family suite 2 adults + 2 children, gîtes for groups)
- Facilities: 45-hectare park, 2 gîtes
- Parking: free on site
- Open: April 1 to November 1
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
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8. Relais d'Amboise The Leading Hotels of the World - Luxury hotel overlooking the château
Why stay there?
Built on the foundations of the monks' former medieval monastery, Les Minimes, the hotel occupies a listed 18th-century building that has been completely renovated to offer 5-star service. The establishment is intimate, with just fifteen rooms, giving it an exclusive atmosphere that's hard to find in the big chains. The view from some rooms of the Château Royal d'Amboise is undoubtedly one of the major assets of this accommodation. We were struck by the silhouette of the castle illuminated in the evening. Its position at the foot of the château is also ideal for visiting it as soon as it opens, before the tourist crowds arrive.
Pool and spa
- No pool or spa
- Bar and terrace
- View of the Château Royal d'Amboise
Practical information
- City: Amboise
- Neighborhood: at the foot of the Château Royal d'Amboise - read our dedicated article here
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: bar, terrace, PRM access
- Parking: free indoor private parking on site, PRM accessible
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
9. Hôtel Saint-Pierre - Saumur, charming downtown hotel
Why stay there?
Nestled in the heart of Saumur's old town, just a few minutes' walk from the château overlooking the valley, Hôtel Saint-Pierre is an establishment whose singular character we appreciated. All 14 rooms are unique: the bathroom walls are adorned with mosaics signed by great artists, including Paloma Picasso. The decor, both vintage and modern, is enhanced by a careful play of light, and certain elements of the décor make reference to the equestrian world, deeply rooted in the culture of Saumur. We also loved the atmosphere of the in-house bar, ideal for getting together after a day's sightseeing in the nearby cellars or vineyards. The establishment is also ideally positioned for exploring the old town and Château de Saumur on foot.
Practical information
- City: Saumur
- Neighborhood: downtown, west of the castle
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: atmospheric bar, terrace, relaxation lounges
- Parking: yes, private and paying
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
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10. Sozo Hôtel - Nantes, an unusual hotel in a former chapel
Why stay there?
Sleeping in a former 19th-century chapel, under stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings, while enjoying the amenities of a contemporary 4-star hotel: the experience offered by the Sozo Hôtel is hard to replicate anywhere else in the region. We really appreciated the dialogue between the radical modernity of the rooms, with their clean lines and masterful design, and the solemnity of the premises. The wellness area, with sauna, steam room, ice room and sensory shower, is an undeniable asset. The hotel is just a stone's throw from Nantes' Jardin des Plantes and the SNCF train station, making it easy to arrive by train from Paris or Bordeaux. The owners have never tried to "overdo" the beauty of the building. The choice of materials and colors is sober and consistent. Looking for an unusual night out in Nantes? The Sozo Hotel is, in our opinion, the city's most accomplished unusual address.
Wellness and spa
- Sauna
- Hammam
- Ice room
- Sensory shower
Practical information
- City: Nantes
- Neighborhood: Station
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: no
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: sauna, steam room, ice room, sensory shower
- Parking: yes
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
11. Hôtel L'Oisellerie - Angers, listed historic house
Why stay there?
The Hôtel L'Oisellerie is one of the oldest houses in Angers: listed as a Monument Historique, this Renaissance building is adorned with carved woodwork, a grand staircase and an interior lantern mural that anchor visitors in several centuries of history. We spent a night in this establishment run by two dynamic young women who have recently renovated it with great care, and we have excellent memories of it. The room was comfortable and well-appointed, and the hearty breakfast, featuring quality products, is a real highlight of the house. Located in the heart of historic Angers, the Château d'Angers and Cathédrale Saint-Maurice are just a few minutes away on foot. We recommend this address to all travelers looking for an authentic experience, far removed from standardized hotels.
Practical information
- City: Angers, near the Château d'Angers
- Neighborhood: historical center
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: no (breakfast only and kettle tray in room)
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: high chair, snack vending machine
- Parking: no
- Read our article here
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
12. Hôtel de l'Abeille - Orléans, a century-old institution full of character
Why stay there?
An Orléans institution since 1903, the Hôtel de l'Abeille is a friendly address. We were seduced by its singular atmosphere: antique decor, period furniture, engravings on the walls and a majestic staircase create a setting reminiscent of the grand hotels of another era. The planted roof terrace is an asset, offering a unique view over the rooftops of Orléans and the building's gargoyles. The hotel is just a stone's throw from the Orléans train station, making it easy to arrive by train from Paris (approx. 1 hour) or Tours. The tea room is a pleasant way to extend your time away from the hustle and bustle in a well-kept setting. We recommend this establishment to those who love museum hotels and interiors steeped in history.
Practical information
- City: Orléans
- Neighborhood: near Orléans train station
- Price range: 3 stars
- Restaurant: tea room
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: roof garden, gift store
- Parking: no, PRM access not available
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
13. Hôtel Anne d'Anjou - Saumur, hotel with spa on the banks of the Loire
Why stay there?
Located on the banks of the Loire in Saumur, Hôtel Anne d'Anjou combines comfort and elegance in an exceptional setting. We spent a very pleasant time in this establishment, whose central location is a major asset: the Château de Saumur is just a few minutes' walk away. The heated outdoor pool, sauna and Jacuzzi provide welcome relaxation between visits. From the balcony of our room, we had a direct view of the river flowing peacefully below. A show we didn't miss. The rooms are decorated with refinement, and the bistronomic restaurant L'Essentiel, set in the hotel's inner courtyard, serves quality cuisine.
Pool and spa
- Heated outdoor pool
- Jacuzzi
- Sauna
- Massages and treatments
- Ambiance bar
Practical information
- City: Saumur
- Neighborhood: downtown, banks of the Loire
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes (Restaurant L'Essentiel, courtyard)
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, massages and treatments, ambience bar
- Parking: yes, secure and chargeable
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
14. Hôtel Les Trésorières - Tours, luxury hotel in the heart of Vieux-Tours
Why stay there?
Right in the heart of Vieux-Tours, Hôtel Les Trésorières is undoubtedly one of the city's most refined addresses. We were won over by the attention to detail: modern, fully-equipped rooms, a well-appointed wellness area, and a breakfast featuring fresh, local produce that remains one of our fondest memories of our stay in the Loire Valley. The decor combines modernity and tradition in an atmosphere that is both intimate and spacious, setting this 5-star establishment apart from its competitors. Ideally positioned just a few minutes' walk from Saint-Gatien Cathedral and Tours' main museums, it's also an excellent base for visiting the Loire castles, less than 1 hour away by car.
Pool and spa
- Indoor pool
- Sauna
- Hammam
- Fitness center
Practical information
- City: Tours
- Neighborhood: Vieux-Tours / Cathedral
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: indoor pool, sauna, steam room, fitness center, PRM access and facilities
- Parking: public parking available nearby (without prior reservation), surcharge may apply
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
15. Empreinte Hôtel & Spa - Orléans, romantic hotel on the waterfront
Why stay there?
Located directly on the banks of the Loire in Orléans, the Empreinte Hôtel & Spa is the city's romantic address par excellence. We were won over by the successful transformation of this historic residence into a resolutely modern and chic venue. The rooms, available in three moods - "Couture", "Urban" and "Eternal" - are decorated with great care, and many have a soothing view of the Royal River. Breakfast, made with fresh local produce, is something we particularly enjoyed. A wellness area with sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi rounds out the facilities on offer. Its location on the quays of Châtelet also makes it an ideal starting point for walking to Sainte-Croix Cathedral and the historic heart of Orléans. For rooms with a view of the Loire, please make a request at the time of booking.
Wellness and spa
- No swimming pool
- Sauna
- Hammam
- Jacuzzi
- A wide range of treatments
Practical information
- City: Orléans
- District: Bords de Loire, Quais du Châtelet
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: champagne and spirits bar, snacking facilities
- Family rooms: not mentioned
- Facilities: sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, treatment menu
- Parking: no - Halles-Châtelet parking lot (public, paying) 50m away
- Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
It's time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
Sleeping in a castle in the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is one of the world's richest destinations for châteaux open to visitors. Several of the establishments in this selection are already châteaux: Perreux, Chissay, Forges, Fontevraud, Ternay. Other addresses are also worth mentioning to complete the picture:
- Château du Rivau (Lémère, between Tours and Saumur) - royal stables dating from 1550, themed gardens, gourmet restaurant. See prices and availability.
- Relais de Chambord (Chambord) - 50m from Château de Chambord, direct view from some rooms, spa. See prices and availability.
- Château des Briottières (Champigné, near Angers) - 40-hectare English park, swimming pool, tennis court. See prices and availability.
- Domaine des Hauts de Loire (Onzain, between Amboise and Blois) - former hunting lodge in 70-hectare park, gourmet restaurant. See prices and availability.
See our complete selection in our dedicated article: Sleeping in a Loire château.
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Other options in the Loire Valley
Here you'll find a few more establishments we'd like to mention, as well as our complete city guides to help you find what you're looking for.
Some other addresses to consider
- Hôtel Les Sources de Cheverny (5 stars, Cheverny): spa, outdoor pool, 2 restaurants and views of the Château de Cheverny. See prices, photos and availability.
- Hôtel Oceania L'Univers (4 stars, Tours): large historic hotel dating from 1846, recently renovated indoor pool and spa. See prices, photos and availability.
- Hôtel Château du Rondon (Olivet, Orléans): 18th-century residence in wooded grounds 15min from Orléans. See prices, photos and availability.
- Château Belmont Tours The Crest Collection (4 stars, Tours): château with gourmet restaurant set in 2.5 hectares of parkland. See prices, photos and availability.
- Radisson Blu Hôtel (4 stars, Nantes): former 1851 courthouse converted into a luxury hotel, design by Jean-Philippe Nuel. See prices, photos and availability.
For lovers of luxury, check out our selection of the best 5-star and luxury hotels in the Loire Valley.
Our "where to sleep" guides by city
Would you like to find out more about a particular city? Find our detailed selections with our opinions on the neighborhoods and the best establishments:
- Where to stay in Nantes: best hotels and neighborhoods
- Where to stay in Angers: best hotels and districts
- Where to stay in Saumur: best hotels and districts
- Where to stay in Blois: best hotels and districts
- Where to stay in Amboise: best hotels and neighborhoods
- Where to stay in Tours: best hotels and districts
- Where to stay in Orléans: best hotels and neighborhoods
PLAN YOUR TRIP IN
Loire Valley
The castles of the Loire Valley
Other places to explore
Practice
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
