The Loire valley is peppered with magnificent castles but the largest and most lavish of these is the Chateau de Chambord.

It was built in 1519 by the rapacious King Francois I, whose original plans for the 'hunting lodge' included diverting the Loire River to flow nearer his new home.

Nowadays the gorgeous French Renaissance architecture, blending traditional medieval forms with classical Italian structures, means the building has become one of the most recognised in the country and is thought to have been inspired by local genius Leonardo da Vinci.

After gawping at the turrets and towers from the grounds and game reserve, take a look inside at the famous double-helix staircase.

This flirtatious feature was used to chase lovers up and down the castle, with regular peepholes to track the other's opposite progress.

For more Loire castles, visit the Chateau d'Amboise for great views over the river and countryside. Its colourful history includes briefly serving as a home for King Henri II and Catherine de Medici, as well as Mary Queen of Scots.