Château de Villandry: An Enchanting Medieval Castle in the Heart of Loire Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Loire Valley in central France, Château de Villandry is an enchanting medieval castle that is steeped in history and radiates a romantic charm. Built in the 16th century, the castle is a popular tourist destination and a must-see for those looking to explore the ancient architecture and stunning beauty of the region.
History of Château de Villandry
The construction of Château de Villandry began in 1536 by Jean le Breton, the Finance Minister for François I. It was completed in 1550 and was the last of the grand Renaissance châteaux of the Loire Valley. The castle was originally intended to be a fortified dwelling, but it was never used as such. In the 19th century, the château was bought by Doctor Joachim Carvallo who had a passion for architecture and gardening. He renovated the castle and restored its gardens to their former glory.
The Gardens of Château de Villandry
The gardens of Château de Villandry are some of the most stunning in France. They consist of three distinct sections, each reflecting a different period of gardening and architecture. The ornamental gardens feature a variety of geometric shapes and patterns, including a vast flower-filled maze. The water garden has a series of canals and pools, while the kitchen garden is home to a range of vegetables, herbs and fruits.
What to See and Do at Château de Villandry
A visit to Château de Villandry is the perfect way to explore the beauty of this region of France. The castle itself is a sight to behold, with its stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the Loire Valley. Inside the castle, there are various rooms to explore, including the grand salon, the chapel and the kitchen.
The gardens are the highlight of a visit to Château de Villandry. Spend time wandering through the ornamental gardens, admiring the various shapes and patterns. The water garden is a tranquil spot to relax and take in the beauty of the canals and pools. The kitchen garden is a great place to learn about the history of gardening in France.
The castle also offers various activities and events throughout the year, such as wine tastings, cooking classes and art exhibitions.
Getting to Château de Villandry
Château de Villandry is located in the commune of Villandry in the Loire Valley region of France. The nearest train station is Tours, which is around 20 km away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the castle. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to the castle in around 30 minutes.
Visiting Château de Villandry
Château de Villandry is open all year round, with the exception of some public holidays. Opening hours vary depending on the season, but the castle is usually open from 10am to 6pm. The entrance fee is €9.50 for adults, €7.50 for children aged 6-17 and €7 for students.
Château de Villandry is an enchanting castle steeped in history and surrounded by stunning gardens. It’s the perfect place to explore the beauty of the Loire Valley and experience the charm of medieval architecture and gardens. A visit to this spectacular castle is sure to be a memorable experience Nestled in the heart of France’s Loire Valley, Château de Villandry is a captivating medieval castle with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Renowned for its stunning gardens meticulously restored in the 19th century, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into France’s architectural and horticultural heritage. Explore the ornamental, water, and kitchen gardens, then delve into the castle’s interior before enjoying activities like wine tastings and art exhibitions. Easily accessible from Tours by train or car, Château de Villandry invites guests to experience the timeless allure of the Loire Valley’s medieval masterpiece year-round.