4.5Château de Chambord(8.123 reviews) - Worth a visit! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
Chambord is the emblem of the French Renaissance through Europe and the world. The Domain of Chambord is made up of the château, a village, farms and a wooded area. The domain of Chambord is completely enclosed within a wall, all 5,440 hectares of it. That’s the equivalent of the city of Paris! It is the largest enclosed forest in Europe. The entire site has been the property of the state since 1930; when the public estate was created, article 230 of the law dated 23 February 2005 stated that the possessions making up the domain were given over to it without restriction or exceptions.See more..
4.5Château Royal d'Amboise(5.607 reviews) - Beautiful! Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Castles
With the dawning of the Renaissance, the mighty medieval fortress of Amboise gave way to a royal residence, during the reigns of the Kings of France Charles VIII and François I. The Court, a large number of men and women of letters and European artists, stayed here on invitation from the sovereigns, one example being Leonardo da Vinci who lies here in peace in the Château’s Chapel.This place of high renown in the History of France boasts an exceptional collection of Gothic and Renaissance furniture illustrating the artistic finery of the first French Renaissance. After a visit of the Royal House and the impressive Cavalry Towers, the walk continues in the magnificent panoramic gardens overlooking the Loire river.See more..
4.5Chateau Royal de Blois(4.129 reviews) - One of the best Chateaus Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Castles
Aux portes du Val de Loire, le château royal de Blois présente un véritable panorama de l'art et de l'histoire des châteaux de la Loire, ce qui en fait la meilleure introduction à leur visite par sa richesse architecturale. Autour de la cour, dominée par le monumental escalier François Ier, se déploie un florilège de quatre styles de l'architecture française, le style gothique avec la salle des Etats généraux, les prémices de l'influence italienne avec l'aile Louis XII, Renaissance dans l'aile François Ier et enfin classique avec l'aile bâtie par Mansart pour le duc d'Orléans. Résidence de sept rois et de dix reines de France, le château royal est le lieu évocateur du pouvoir et de la vie quotidienne de la cour à la Renaissance, comme en témoignent les appartements royaux, meublés et ornés de magnifiques décors polychromes.See more..
4.5Château de Cheverny(4.082 reviews) - Lovely castle and grounds - plan ahead Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles
Come and discover the first private home to open its doors to the public in 1922. You will appreciate the splendour and delight of real life in a castle. The owners invite you to discover this fantastic and vivid heritage: from the botanical park to the magnificent interior of the Château; the hunting dog kennels to Tintin's exhibition and the gardens through to the forest. The Château displays a wonderful range of furniture and interior decoration, all of which are remarkably well preserved. The private apartments on the first floor convey the French ‘art de vivre’ Many treasures can be found at Cheverny like a 17th century Gobelin tapestry for example, on display in the Arms room or the Louis XIV chest of drawers in the Boulle style. And you may even spend the night in one of our modern flats with top of the range furniture !See more..
A monumental countryside villa surrounded by world-famous gardens, organized in the classic French Renaissance style.See more..
4.5Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau(3.119 reviews) - Lovely Small Chateau Monday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Castles
The Château of Azay-le-Rideau, masterpiece of the Renaissance. The Château of Azay-le-Rideau, built at the heart of Touraine under the patronage of François Ier, has all the charm of the Renaissance. Masterpiece of the 16th century architecture, it rises up on an island designed by the river Indre and is surrounded by a romantic 19th century park. The château has some prestigious historical decorations telling about its 4 centuries of history. It also has some sumptuous collections of items, tapestries and furniture. To be discovered : - On the ground floor : restoration of the 19th century decoration and atmosphere. - On the first floor : an immersion at the heart of the Renaissance, the great hall and its period furniture, as well as the restoration of a Renaissance chamber, whose walls are fully made of bullrushes braids. - The Pressoir (former press room), an interpretation center reachable by everyone in order to know more about the château. - The romantic park of 8ha with many points of view on the château and its water mirrors.See more..
4.0Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire(2.477 reviews) - The gardens and the art are the must sees Monday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Castles
Less than 200 kilometres south of Paris, nestling between the cities of Tours and Blois, is a haven of poetry. A natural oasis, a headland stretching out 40 metres above the wild Loire, the Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire, owned by the Centre Region, welcomes the public all year round to its chateau and park and, from April to the end of October, the unmissable International Garden Festival. Whatever the season, the chateau - once the home of Catherine de Medici, Diane de Poitiers and Princess de Broglie - beckons you indoors to admire its welcoming and lavishly furnished interiors. The International Garden Festival has been providing a unique panorama of landscape design all over the world since 1992. At the same time a source of ideas and a nursery for talent, the Festival gives an extra boost to the art of gardens and gains the interest of both the public and those in the trade by displaying new flower arrangements, new materials, new ideas and new approaches.See more..
4.0Château d'Ussé(1.445 reviews) - The highlight of our trip Castles
See the inspiration for the fairy-tale castle in Sleeping Beauty: Charles Perrault, the author of the popular tale, was so impressed he decided on this castle as the setting of his story.See more..
4.5Chateau de Langeais(1.295 reviews) - Beautiful Christmas experience especially for kids Monday: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Open every day of the year ! The medieval fortress dominates the village with its austere facade. But don't be daunted: the open drawbridge is an invitation to enter into the refined lodgings of a great lord. It is the most fully furnished castle of the Loire Valley. The hushed ambiance of the rooms and the splendor of the great reception halls will plunge you into the daily life of a 15th century prince. You will relive the event that distinguished the history of the locale: the wedding of Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany, recreated with strikingly realistic wax figures.In the park, you will discover the recreated construction site of France's oldest keep. The promenade, punctuated with playgrounds and the tree house, can be followed through cedars and sequoias to the gazebo overlooking the Loire.See more..
4.5Château de l'Islette(1.141 reviews) - The Rodin et Camille Claudel love Castle Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 30, 2023 Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
Due to a problem with the structure of a floor, urgent work lust be undertaken and the castle is therefore closed to visitors until the end of the season for safety reasons. It will reopen on 1 May 2023. Thank you for your understanding.See more..
4.5Royal City of Loches(1.010 reviews) - From dungeon to donjon, it takes you back to medieval real time. Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
In the royal city, you can visit the dungeons and a royal lodge.See more..
4.5La Forteresse de Montbazon(883 reviews) - Learn about the Middle Ages in a fun interactive way. Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Castles
Such a great day out. The staff are so friendly and passionate about the Middle Ages. Great visit, interesting workshops and reasonably priced food. We spent 4 hours and didn’t finish everything. Lots to do! Highly recommend.See more..
4.5Château du Rivau(835 reviews) - A very interesting visit, many unexpected things to see. Monday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles • Gardens
Castle and Fairytale Gardens Le Rivau was constructed in the 15th century by Pierre de Beauvau, Great Chamberlain of Charles the 7th. It is also renown for having been visited by Joan of Arc on her way to Orleans to get some horses. This medieval private castle is animated by more than 380 art-objects. In the royal stables, an exhibit on Francis the First last king-knight is shown. Gem among the Loire Valley, Rivau Gardens are labbled 'Remarquable Gardens'. All around the year, discover our amazing flower collections of bulbs, iris, peonies, roses, lavender, dahlias, ornemental grasses and vegetables. Rivau gardens are Conservatory of Fragrant Roses and Conservatory of Vegetables that are used in our restaurant. The castle and gardens are suitable for the whole family, adults will be interested in botanic, history and contemporary art and kids will be transported in a fairytale like environnement.See more..
4.0Chateau de Valencay(825 reviews) - Well worth the detour, Valencay should be better known Monday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles
I had for years associated Valencay with the delicious cheese of the same name which, unsurprisingly, was on the menu of the chateau restaurant where we ate before our visit. The chateau itself is architecturally interesting, well maintained and furnished throughout. Its most interesting period was during Talleyrand's ownership which began in 1803 and ended with his death in 1838. An immensely rich man from collecting France's taxes, even he must have blenched when "requested" to put up the deposed King of Spain who had been replaced by Napoleon's brother Joseph. During the years the Spanish royals lived at Valencay they needed diversions and Talleyrand built a beautiful 200 seat theatre for them in 1808. There are separate escorted visits to it which we found particularly interesting not least because original stage settings are in place. Another larger than life star of his day associated with Valencay is Carême, "King of chefs and chef of kings". His kitchens are splendid.See more..
4.5Chateau de Maintenon(787 reviews) - A hidden gem in Eure-et-Loir Monday: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Stumbled upon this Chateau by chance and spent a lovely Sunday afternoon walking around the gardens and rooms. Off the beaten track a bit but we'll worth a visit. Gardens were neat and beautiful and the rooms in the chateau were exquisite. The aqueduct is just incredible!!! €6 each, free parking in the square and tour guide information and help second to none. After a couple of hours here pop over to the cafe in square for a coffee to finish off the tripSee more..
The most Italian Chateau in the Loire Valley ! The Royal Estate of Chateau Gaillard is a 15 hectares paradise of greenery located in the heart of the city of Amboise. It is the forgotten Paradise of the Renaissance in Touraine. On his return from Italy in 1496, young King Charles VIII fell in love with Italian cities and palaces and decided to recreate a "Paradise on Earth" at Chateau Gaillard in Amboise. In order to fulfill this dream, he convinced 22 Italian artists to come back with him to Amboise. Dom Pacello, the most famous gardener in 1500 in Europe, was leading the team. He planted the first gardens of the French Renaissance at Chateau Gaillard and acclimated the first orange trees in France. After 5 years of intensive restoration carried out by 50 artisans and craftsmen from the Loire Valley the castle is now open to the public. A diving into a marvelous story and fascinating unknown treasures such as a collection of 250 citrus & an ARCIMBOLDO bust (Free Car Park 99)See more..
4.5Château de Sully-sur-Loire(689 reviews) - Great place to visit, learn a bit of history Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Castles
The imposing medieval architecture of the chateau de Sully has dominated the Loire for seven centuries. With its high towers, its moats still filled with water and its superb conical roofs, the château gives the impression of having seen some of the finest moments of France's history. You can visit the residence of Maximilien de Béthune, better known by the name Duke de Sully, Henri IV's famous minister, and discover the history of this family which owned the castle for nearly four centuries !See more..
4.5Château de Meung sur Loire(579 reviews) - Don't skip this castle Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles
At the gates of Chambord, from the sophistication of its drawing rooms to its unsettling underground passages, you will be astonished while discovering this private chateau and the illustrious figures who have stayed there.See more..
4.0Château de La Ferté Saint Aubin(451 reviews) - Small but charming castle worth the ticket price Monday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles
It's not the biggest castle but ideal to visit with small kids. They decorated some rooms with old/antique games which the kids can try. Also the main building is really big and you can visit almost every room which is fully decorated. You also have access to the park next to the castle for a walk or play with the kids.See more..
4.0Park and Chateau de Beauregard(420 reviews) - Fabulous portrait gallery, well worth the visit! Monday: 10:30 AM - 6:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Castles
Beauregard : the portrait château and home of Kings’ ministers. The chateau of Beauregard and its park is one of those little treasures that will leave you with an unforgettable memory. It makes a striking link between the past and future. Come and discover 300 years of French and European history told in its famous and unique Portrait Gallery and the Bell study. Its gardens will astonish you with all the surprises they contain for young and small alike.See more..
4.5chateau Montpoupon(412 reviews) - This chateau is not to be missed Monday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Montpoupon started as a feudal castle which was then transformed into a comfortable château during the Renaissance. Inhabited by the same family since 1857, the château is still fully furnished and open to visits, as is the park. In the outbuildings, you will find a museum dedicated to the arts and crafts of hunting. Many events and animations punctuate the life of the domain throughout the year.See more..
Standing some 60 metres above the Loir valley, the Château features a rare succession of medieval, Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements including two open staircases overlooking the courtyard. The beautifully preserved interior houses a fine collection of tapestries. The Gothic Sainte-Chapelle, built by Dunois, contains some outstanding sculpted statues. A mediaeval kitchen garden has recently been laid out at the foot of the main keep to illustrate how herbs and spices were used in the cuisine and medicines of the Middle Ages. Open: > 2nd May to 30th June: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. > 1st July to 4th September: from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. > 5th September to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission 1 hour before closing time. Closed: > 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.5Le Chateau des Enigmes(276 reviews) - Fantastic Temporarily closed - Closed until Apr 7, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Castles
A CASTLE THAT YOU CAN VISIT AND HAVE FUN! ! ! Willy and the Knight's Quest: During nearly 3 hours, discover with Willy and his companions a fabulous course of 28 puzzles and games-challenges. This chivalrous quest will lead you from the outbuildings, through the most beautiful rooms of the Castle, in the wooded park of 18 ha. With family or friends, it is undoubtedly an original way to combine History and Games for a general discovery of a majestic site. The Château des Enigmes-Val de Loire, a Château unlike any other ...See more..
4.5Chateau de Fougeres-sur-Bievre(238 reviews) - Fabulous chateau for those with a car Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Castles
A small fortified castle built in the second half of the 15th century and the beginning of the 16th, Fougères with its machicolated entrance curtain and keep, is the perfect example of the art of rural buildings. All rooms in the château are opened to visitors in addition to the attics medieval garden. The castle's roofs are open for visits. Open: > 8th May to 10th September: from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 11th September to 7th May: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission 30 minutes before closing time. Closed: > Tuesdays from 11th September to 7th May. > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 5,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
4.0Chateau de Villesavin(224 reviews) - A different experience but worth it! Monday: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Castles
Forget opulence but think more of history, charm and a family home. This is certainly a a forgotten chateau, off the beaten track, and full of character. The staff and tour guides were very welcoming and there are translations available (tour guide was brilliant). It is a building full of history... Its current state of repair shows that the years have taken their toll but it is certainly worth a visit. The medieval chapel paintings are worth a visit on their own. There are also a few interesting exhibitions and features that add extra interest. I think that this a Chateau which could easily be overlooked due to its location to near by more famous neighbours but it is certainly worth a visit.See more..
4.5Chateau de Troussay(203 reviews) - Authentic place Monday: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Historical monument, the smallest of the chateaux of the Loire has a history that dates 600 years back and brings a mosaic of ancient decors from more than 10 chateaux of the Loire destroyed after the French revolution and collected by the historian Louis de La Saussaye at the XIXth century. Sold only twice in its history, it is in the same family for 600 years. The old winery is a small jewel of refinement with decors of Elements sparking great artistic and cultural interest, it is a haven of peace in its green setting surrounded by vineyards. Opened for business for 40 years, his visit shows a set of architectural interest and al English park with rare species as well as a chicken coop. Its soft atmosphere of intimate and personal dwelling is a refinement for lovers of subtlety and wellbeing. The guided tour lasts about 40 minutes and can remain stroll or picnic in the English park al. Since May 2015, the young owner opened among other things of bed and breakfast and cottages for contrinuer has maintained its field in good condition and make it live and it is a small business.See more..
4.5Château de Chamerolles(200 reviews) - Away from the hordes Monday: 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Former residence of the Du Lac family the castle of Chamerolles was built between 1500 and 1530 by Lancelot Du Lac - chamberlain of king Louis the XII - on the site of an ancient medieval fortress whose moats and corner towers remain untill today. Brick decoration, open gallery, and gardens surrounded by a water mirror make this castle typical of the Renaissance. Located 45 mn north of Orléans its Promenade des Parfums will take you through the history of hygiene and fragrances from the XVI century to nowadays.See more..
4.0Chateau d'Anet(199 reviews) - La petite histoire de France - Diane de Poitiers Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Castles
Je ne me lasse jamais de visiter ces châteaux privés, malgré les restrictions (visite guidée, aucune photo, etc.). Ces châtelains du monde d'aujourd'hui y consacrent amour, temps et argent pour nous faire revivre notre histoire (oui, je suis canadien, mais de souche française en 1655). Quelle belle collection de pièces inédites, relatant les faits les plus intéressants de Diane de Poitiers. Malgré les destructions des diverses époques, dont la Révolution, il reste quelques joyaux d'architecture, dont la chapelle du Château. A la fin de votre visite, n'oubliez pas de visiter l'église voisine (à droite en sortant du Château) où vous verrez le gisant de Diane. Somme toute, cela vaut beaucoup mieux que les pièces vides de certains châteaux de la Vallée de la Loire. Et il ne faut pas oublier les guides, toujours disposés à répondre à nos questions, et parfois faire un peu d'animation pour les enfants, petits et grands. MERCI DE CETTE VISITE.See more..
4.0Château de Beaugency(193 reviews) - spooky historical site Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Castles • Art Museums
Digital Art Center, organization of events and artistic residences, permanent works and temporary exhibitions, reception of schoolchildren and workshops, mediation and transmission, tourist visits and daily living ... In 2021, the spaces of the Château de Beaugency welcome visitors to explore this exceptional conversation between heritage and digital creation.See more..
Situé dans le Cher, au sud de la Région Centre Val de Loire, le château d’Ainay-le-Vieil classé Monument Historique a été transmis de génération en génération depuis 1467. Ici, cohabitent harmonieusement le château médiéval et son logis Renaissance, le parc paysager, les jardins classés Monument Historique et labellisés « Jardin remarquable ». Le château d’Ainay-le-Vieil vous accueille dans ses quatre gîtes et ses cinq chambres d’hôtes, proposant un total de 52 couchages pour un séjour au cœur d'une nature préservée. La Volière, restaurant du château, propose une cuisine familiale, savoureuse, concoctée selon le marché du jour et les produits du terroir. Vous serez servis sous une volière fleurie donnant sur le château et surplombant la roseraie. Visitez le château, promenez-vous dans les jardins et découvrez les énigmes de l'escape game.See more..
4.5Chateau of Talcy(166 reviews) - Nice little chateay, cute garden.... Monday: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Castles • Gardens
Although built at the same time of the great castles in the Loire valley, Talcy remains untouched by the popular Italian style and its love of decoration. The wells, outhouses including press and dovecote and the garden all emphasize the rural nature of the estate. The castle has retained its interior decoration and furniture from the 18th century. Site with the "Outstanding Garden" label. Open: > 2nd May to 4th September: from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. > 5th September to 30th April: from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission 1 hr before closing time. Closed: > Tuesdays from 1st October to 31st March. > 1st January, 1st May and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 5,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
One of the few chateau that is fully furnished with a collection of objects from various periods of time. There's the Africa room, with all kinds of creatures stuffed and otherwise, the lovely reception rooms and bedrooms plus secret servant passages and hidden doorways and a great kitchen. You have to be guided and our charming guide, though it was a French tour (we had just missed the tour in English) kindly explained all the major points of the chateau in English for those of us whose French is not quite up to scratch! It took about and hour and a quarter and after we strolled round the grounds. We loved it as it was not too big a place to be overwhelming, and felt like a home.See more..
4.5Château de Meillant(133 reviews) - Something for everyone Spent 1-2 hours Castles
A must visit if you are in the area. Beautifully situated and amazingly sculptured and decorated chateau. Excellent and very amusing guided tour. Afterwards a nice stroll in the lovely park, vintage vehicles and carriages and super model buildings in outbuildings. .See more..
4.0Château de Sarzay(129 reviews) - A truly medieval experience! Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon wandering around wonderful Sarzay Castle and its grounds. Once inside, you are transported way back in time as you wander among the authentic furnishings, weaponry, and other artifacts, complete with stuffed animal heads around the walls. The grounds are lovely and we ran into the owner, Richard, as we wandered around. Very nice man, very welcoming and obviously takes great pride in his castle. As others have mentioned, the best part about this castle is that you are able to go anywhere and interact with everything without limit, or barrier ropes/glass, or tour guides. It was such an authentic and unique castle experience that, at 6 euros, was truly priceless.See more..
4.5Parc et Jardins du Chateau de Bouges(126 reviews) - A Berry gem Monday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Castles • Gardens
Built in the Italian style during the reign of Louis XV, the Chateau contains furniture of exceptional quality, a large collection of objets d’art, gardens with trimmed box trees, a park of 80 hectares, former stables, a harness room and a museum of horse-drawn carriages. Site with the "Outstanding Garden" label. Open: > In April, May, June, September and October (everyday except on Tuesdays) from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. > In July and in August (everyday) from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 6.45 p.m. > In March and in November on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Last admission 30 minutes before closing time. Closed: > From December to February, except for groups. > 1st May. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groupsSee more..
The castle is open every day from 10 AM to 7 PM in July and August. Discover 1000 years of history in this small and unusual castle. The visit is fun for every age and for families.See more..
Anne de Beaujeu’s imposing residence abandon the defensive aspect of the Middle Ages for the benefit of the comfort of the Renaissance and dominates the Loire valley. After several owner’s changes, the county of Loiret bought it so as to turn it into the sub prefecture, the court and the prison. Since 1952, it houses a sumptuous collection of hunting artefacts dating from the Middle Ages to the present. After 4 years of important works of restoration, the public can now discover its collections and history through a new and original scenography.See more..
4.0Château des Comtes du Perche(79 reviews) - Excellent Monday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles • History Museums
The castle of Saint-Jean dominates the town and is a fine example of medieval architecture and of the history of Nogent-le-Rotrou. The rectangular keep is 30 metres high and is 60 metres above the Huisne valley. Its construction began in the first years of the 11th century after the first Lord of Nogent, Rotrou I. The end of 12th century and beginning of the 13th saw the construction of the circular enclosure and 7 defensive towers. The castle of Saint-Jean has withstood many sieges in its time, the most violent was probably in 1428 when the Count of Salisbury burnt the keep and destroyed the inside of the building. In 1624, de Sully became the owner and built the attractive Louis XIII pavilion against the north rampart. The interior has been completely renovated since the 1960s and now houses a local history museum with exhibits and documents about country life in Perche, as well as on the history of the town and the castle. It also houses various temporary exhibitions.See more..
Yèvre-le-Châtel is only 100 kms from Paris. The 13th century fort is open to visitors every day from April 1 to November 1 between 2 and 6 pm. Charge is 5 euros for adults and 3 euros for children between 3 and 15. Guided tours can be booked in advance by calling Les Compagnons de La Châtellenie at +33238342591. This wonderful example of medieval military architecture is complemented with gardens of some 150 medicinal plants. The entrance fee serves to pay the gardeners who keep the village full of flowers. The village boasts 2 more national landmarks, St Lubin and St Gault. This picture postcard village is a must whether on a day trip from Paris or on your way to the Loire Valley.See more..
Even if you are only passing on the N10 en route south it is well worth your time to take a detour and visit this beautiful Chateau overlooking the Loir. The vista from the terrace is superb and well worth the visit for that alone. However, this chateau hides a beautiful interior in addition to its striking facade and peaceful grounds. It is somewhat unusual in that it is inhabited by the same family who have lived there for going on for 200 years and is full of history. The owners are passionate about their property and very knowledgeable. They take great delight in showing you around and explaining in great detail the treasures of art and furnishings the chateau holds. For English visitors it is a delight to have someone who speaks English as well as the owner does. I have visited many times but never miss an opportunity to return again.See more..
4.5Chateau de Villebon(9 reviews) - Monument de caractère innatendu en ce lieu Spent 1-2 hours Castles
Monument imposant cour intérieure contrastant avec la structure de l'édifice grands espaces et parc à voirSee more..
