Blois is a city and commune in France, the préfecture (capital) of the Loir-et-Cher département, situated on the banks of the lower river Loire between Orléans and Tours.Blois is a city and commune in France, the préfecture (capital) of the Loir-et-Cher département, situated on the banks of the lower river Loire between Orléans and Tours.

The famous Château de Blois, a Renaissance château once occupied by King Louis XII, is located in the centre of the city, and an 18th century stone bridge spans the Loire. As Blois is built on a pair of steep hills, winding and steep pathways run through the city, culminating in long staircases at various points. To the south of the city, the Forêt de Russy is a remainder of the heavy woods that once covered the area.