Chateau de Villandry is the last of the grand chateaux built in the Loire Valley. A 12th-century fortress was razed -- only the keep remains -- to make way for the new structure built in1536.

The “Valley of a Thousand Châteaux” moniker may exaggerate the count, but the range of options is indeed formidable. My main tip: Don’t go overboard on château-hopping.

by Rick Steves, January 24, 2023 | The Loire Valley, about two hours southwest of Paris, offers France's greatest array of château experiences. Here's everything you need to know.