Spend several hours at the historic château that belonged to Napoleon’s son. Hike along the picturesque riverside.
The Cosson River runs through the woodland and scenic meadows of La Ferté-Saint-Aubin. The village, which has a church, a campsite and museums, is known for its château. Escape from urban Orléans to enjoy this popular daytrip. Take kids to play life-size Snakes and Ladders and mini-golf at the castle.
Enjoy the château’s picturesque grounds with a picnic on the lawn. Tour the structure’s chambers and halls while learning about its past. The son of Napoleon Bonaparte and several other notable figures owned the mansion over the centuries.
Make your way to the guardhouse and restored classroom to imagine how things once were. Taste honey madeleines and watch the cook’s demonstration on weekends. The château also has an interesting museum of old toys and dolls.
Visit the tourism office for pamphlets and guidance for hiking tours. Here, find information about current exhibits and Christmas festivities. West of the village is the Ligny-le-Ribault eco-museum, which is full of antiques and archeological items from the region. Enter the La Grange Retro museum south of the village to see the collection of vehicles from every era through the 1970s.
Attend a concert at the Maison de la Musique, where you can also take lessons and rent instruments. Relish the rural charm of riverbanks among trees and walking paths. Play Ping-Pong and pétanque.
La Ferté-Saint-Aubin is in the Loire Valley, just outside the major city of Orléans, which is 14 miles (22 kilometers) north. The château village of Chambord is a 30-minute drive west toward Blois. Visit other nearby villages of Ménestreau-en-Villette, Marcilly-en-Villette and Ardon.
Adults and children alike will love the historic aspects and fun games at the castle and campsite of La Ferté-Saint-Aubin. The region has hot summers and cold winters. Try one of the regional specialties at area restaurants. These include roast duck, veal and Orléans peas.
