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Untitled

2014
Contents
Page 2 - The Châteaux de la Loire’s initiatives towards excellence
Page 3 - Map
Page 4 - Château of the Dukes of Brittany – Nantes
Page 5 - Château of Angers
Page 6 - Château and park of Brissac
Page 7 - The Cadre Noir of Saumur
Page 8 - Château of Saumur
Page 9 - Château of Brézé
Page 10 - Fontevraud Abbey
Page 11 - Royal fortress of Chinon
Page 12 - Château of Langeais
Page 13 - Château of Azay-le-Rideau
Page 14 - Château and Gardens of Villandry
Page 15 - Royal city of Loches
Page 16 - Château of Clos Lucé
Page 17 - Royal Château of Amboise
Page 18 - Château of Chenonceau
Page 19 - Regional Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire
Page 20 - Royal Château of Blois
Page 21 - Château of Cheverny
Page 22 - National Domain of Chambord
Page 23 - Château of Valençay
Page 24 - Château of Sully-sur-Loire
Page 25 - Practical Information
2
The Châteaux de la Loire network
Developing initiatives towards excellence
The Loire Valley has been included on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites since November 2000. It has been classified by three selection criteria: the quality of its architectural heritage, its unique cultural landscape along a major river
and its cultural monuments which demonstrate to an exceptional degree the ideals of the Renaissance and Enlightenment.
It stretches from Sully-sur-Loire (Loiret) to Chalonnes sur-Loire (Anjou) along a 280 km route. Its inclusion on the UNESCO list resulted in initiatives towards excellence for the great sites of the Loire Valley, coordinated and led by the Mission
Val de Loire.
This ongoing commitment ensures that the historical, architectural, natural and human heritage is enhanced by innovative
actions, in cooperation with the French Government - under the ‘Plan Loire Grandeur Nature’.
The Loire Valley and Pays de la Loire tourism boards are tasked with promoting the Chateaux de la Loire as a tourist destination, in partnership with Atout France.
An increasingly popular tourist attraction, the Loire Valley route includes the 21 most important historical monuments
along the Loire from Sully-sur-Loire to Nantes. Each of them receives more than 50,000 visitors per year, offers high quality tourism and hospitality and contributes significantly to the promotion of the region and its cultural riches.
Mindful of the immense challenge they meet each year, the caretakers of these 21 major monuments keep excellence
in mind and work together in order to make their cultural treasures more accessible. To meet this objective, they are
constantly developing new initiatives and designing new activities such as tablet treasure hunts, tactile discovery for
people with visual impairments, new layouts for the grounds and the museums themselves...
21 Loire Châteaux work daily alongside key insitutional partners:
The Loire Valley Regional Tourist Board
The Pays de la Loire Regional Tourist Board
The State (Loire River Interregional Program - Plan Loire Grandeur Nature)
Atout France (The France Tourism Development Agency)
The Centre region
The Pays de la Loire region
Mission Val de Loire
4
Château of the Dukes of Brittany
Nantes
The Château of the Dukes of Brittany in Nantes, the last château on the banks of the Loire river before it reaches the
ocean, reopened in 2007 after fifteen years of renovation work. Located in the city centre, it has witnessed the history
of the city through the ages. The existing building was started by François II in 1466 and was later embellished by his
daughter Anne of Brittany, the future Queen of France. After the unification between Brittany and France, the château
became the Brittany home of the Kings of France in the 16th and 17th centuries, then military barracks, a military
arsenal and a prison. Having become the town’s property in 1915, it has been home to the municipal museum since 1924.
Coming up in 2014
Samurai (June 28 th – November 9 th)
An opportunity to discover ancient
Japan and the history of the Samurai,
a source of fascination for more than a
century and a half.
Breton Night - La Nuit bretonne
(July 26th)
A concert and night-time festival in the
chateau’s courtyard.
Christmas at the chateau
(December 2nd – January 4th)
Artists are invited to take over the
chateau.
©Cecile Langlois
At a glance
Museography
In the area
History in virtual mode
Multimedia is key to the château as
the idea was to set up a 21st century
museum in a 15th century building.
Developed alongside the museum
collection, it includes, amongst other
things, 10 HD films, 16 interactive
terminals, HD cartography projections with touch screen slabs, a virtual reconstruction of Nantes in 1757,
and more, in order to understand the
history of Nantes and see it come
alive in a fun way.
Free visits to the courtyards, ramparts and moat gardens. Since its
reopening in 2007, the château has
housed the city’s Historical Museum. The tour is divided into seven
themed sequences and spread over
32 rooms. The Grand Logis and Tour
des Jacobins host the first seventeen
rooms dedicated to the time period
from the ancient port city all the
way up to the French Revolution.
The following rooms, located in the
Grand Gouvernement and the two
towers at the entrance complete
History up until present day. In order to illustrate the sequences, the
signs change colour throughout the
itinerary. There are various ways for
families to visit – whether general or
themed – as well as the possibility
of being accompanied by guides (including weekends and during school
holidays).
Les Machines de l’île
On the site of former shipyards,
mechanical beasts are in action:
a 12m elephant or marine animals
from the Carrousel des Mondes
Marins.
www.lesmachines-nantes.fr/en
Le Voyage à Nantes
A romantic and poetic discovery
of the city following a 15km itinerary and around 30 stages
www.levoyageanantes.fr/en
Find out more: www.loire-chateaux.co.uk
5
Château of Angers
From the top of a rocky viewpoint overlooking the River Maine, the Château of Angers’s silhouette stands tall. Built
in 1230 by Blanche de Castille, the mother of Saint-Louis, the fortress is one kilometer in length and surrounded by 17
towers. Harmonious buildings can be found inside the fortress walls, bearing testimony to an era when Angers was
home to the Dukes of Anjou, Louis I and King René, all art lovers. A fine example of this is the Apocalypse tapestry, a
jewel of medieval tapestry, hanging within the castle’s walls.
Coming up in 2014
Saint Louis Exhibition, as part of the commemoration of the 800th anniversary of his
birth (October-December)
A look at the symbolic importance over the
centuries of King Louis IX, during whose
reign Anjou successfully became a part of
France.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
(spring-summer)
An exhibition of contemporary art with the
FRAC Centre, Pays de la Loire and Poitou
Charentes.
©Jean-Sébastien Evrard
At a glance
Museography
In the area
The Apocalypse tapestry
Housed in a gallery specially designed
for it in the 20 th century, the tapestry
was commissioned by the Duke Louis
I of Anjou in 1375. With a length of
140m and height of 6m, it took seven
years to weave. It was cut up at the
end of the 18 th century and served as
coats for horses and orange trees…
From 1848, the Canon Joubert took
on the project of putting the tapestry
back together. It illustrates the last
book of the Bible ‘the Apocalypse of
Saint-John’ and reflects the troubled
times during which it was created, in
the midst of the Hundred Years’ War.
The archaeological remains, on
show in the boutique, are evidence,
along with the discovery of a cairn
(a monumental tomb 15m in diameter) of the site being occupied as
early as 4000 BC. The ground floor
of the royal home has a set of four
models on show to explain the morphological evolution of the site. A
10-minute film also describes the
history of the castle up until the
time of King René.
Cointreau distillery
A fun, educational and cultural
place to discover the world of the
famous brand.
www.cointreau.com
Terra Botanica
The first fun and educational
park offering a multidimensional
discovery of flora from all six
continents.
www.terrabotanica.fr
©Jean-Sébastien Evrard
6
Château and park of Brissac
At seven stories high, le Château of Brissac is the tallest castle in France. Flanked by two enormous, medieval round
towers and a classically inspired façade, the castle boasts 204 rooms. The succession of lounges, bedrooms, libraries and
galleries even hides a theatre. Acquired in 1502 by René de Cosse, the first Duke of the Château de Brissac, the castle
has been inhabited by his descendants for five centuries. A large landscaped English garden around the castle takes
visitors to the heart of the vineyard of Brissac which covers 26 hectares.
Coming up in 2014
Fashion Flower (April 11th - 14th)
A flower arranging festival based on the
theme of opera.
Great Easter Egg Hunt (Avril 20 th)
Hunting for chocolate Easter eggs hidden
around the gardens of the chateau!
Antiqua (May 8 th) New
Sale of curios and collectables.
The Grand Picnic (May 29 th - June 1st)
Families are invited to come and picnic in the
chateau grounds.
©Brissac
At a glance
Museography
In the area
French Hot Air Balloon Championship
From 26th to 31st August, at the foot
of the castle the 40 th Hot Air Balloon
Championship of France will be organised. Balloons fly over the castle, its
park and vineyards to provide a montage of colours for spectators.
Inhabited by the Brissac family since
1502, the castle can be visited as a
living city which each of its neighborhoods indelibly marked by history.
In the main living room, an array
of photos evokes family memories.
On the first floor, the bedroom of
Louis XIII takes visitors back in
time to 1620, walking in the steps
of the king who came to stay at the
castle. The Belle Epoque theatre, an
opera hall with 200 seats, was built
according to the wishes of Jeanne
Say, Marquese de Brissac in the late
nineteenth century. The tour ends
in the cellar of the castle with an
opportunity to sample and purchase
wine from the vineyards of the
castle.
The Angers Golf Course
In the park
With its flower-laden paths and its
trees, the park invites visitors for a
stroll. The walk allows you to admire
the architecture of the castle. A pathway leads to the stables, and then
rises to the family mausoleum which
opens its doors to the public on Heritage Days.
©Brissac
The oldest golf course in the
region, which attracts visitors by
the variety of its courses and the
beauty of the surrounding nature.
www.golfangers.com
Behuard, an island in the Loire
Behuard is the only island commune in the Loire River.
www.angersloiretourisme.com
7
The Cadre Noir of Saumur
Le Cadre Noir of Saumur is one of the most prestigious equestrianism schools in the world. Formerly instructors of
L’Ecole de Cavalerie, the Horsemen of le Cadre Noir now make up the most senior ranks of horse riding. They have
been integrated into the National Riding School since 1972. Through its public performances, competition results and
the quality of its teaching, the Cadre Noir continues the strong tradition of French riding. In addition to its seven indoor
schools and 15 outdoor arenas, the Ecole Nationale d’Equitation has workshops and a modern veterinary clinic dedicated to the welfare of its 400 horses.
Coming up in 2014
The Equestrian Spring (April 23th-27th)
This unique gala brings together the Royal
Andalusian School of Equestrian Art and the
Cadre Noir of Saumur.
Dance with the Cadre Noir (June 13th-15th)
New The grace of traditional French equetrianism combined with dance.
Les Estivales (July 10 th-12th)
Night Gala where horse riders showcase traditional performances.
Les Musicales (October 18 th-19 th)
To close the season, le Cadre Noir offers a
gala combining equestrian art and jazz, accompanied by an orchestra.
©Alain Laurioux - Cadre Noir Représentation Cavalier
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Dance with the Cadre Noir
Brand new concept for 2014 in the
Grand Manège. Born of an original creation combining dance and
equestrian art, this gala will display
the grace of traditional French equestrianism allied with that of dance.
Plunge into an exploration of dances
from around the world accompanied
by the riders of the Cadre Noir. Let
yourself be carried away by the magical dialogue between horse and dancer. Enjoy a moment of pure emotion
in step with their rhythm.
Built in 1974 in several stages,
‘L’Ecole National d’Equitation’ (National Equestrian School) is located
across two areas of almost 300 hectares. The Terrefort site contains a
collection of buildings and the infrastructure of the school. The Verrie site is used for certain international competitions, races and teaching
of interns. Spread across a large arena, stables and the Prestige saddler,
young and old set out to discover the
history of the Cadre Noir since its
inception in 1815 and the operation
of the site. The visit can be enjoyed
alone or with a guide. Throughout
the season, visitors can attend public presentations of the Cadre Noir,
and enjoy expert commentary provided by a horse rider. Parents and
children are sure to appreciate the
close proximity to the horses when
visiting the stables. And every Wednesday during the school holidays,
the little ones can take part in a
treasure hunt.
The Bouvet-Ladubay Saumur wine
cellars
Created in 1851 and excavated in
freestone, they extend over eight kilometers.
www.bouvet-ladubay.fr
Chènehutte-Trèves-Cunault, small city
of character
The town contains about a dozen
historic buildings, the most famous
being the priory church of NotreDame de Cunault, a masterpiece of
local art.
www.chenehutte-treves-cunault.fr
© Alain Laurioux – Cadre Noir Prancing Horse
8
Château of Saumur
Foulques Nerra’s fortified site in the 11th century, the Château of Saumur was in turn a fortress, residence, prison and
an arms and ammunition depot. Today, it retains the look of a fortress but its towers with conical roofs give this castle
a fairy tale look. Owned by the town since 1906, the château has been home to the municipal museum since 1912, and
includes two important collections. One is devoted to decorative arts from the Middle Ages up until the 18th century
and the other to harnessing. The château reopened its doors in 2012, following 10 years of extensive renovation work.
Coming up in 2014
‘Les écuyers du temps’ (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 3rd July to 23rd
August)
This sound and light show directed by Bruno
Seiller takes the audience through the centuries.
© D. Drouet - Chateau of Saumur Front Staircase
At a glance
Museography
In the area
‘Les écuyers du temps’
After the Invalides and Notre Dame
Cathedral in Paris, Bruno Sellier presents, at the Château of Saumur, his
new show: ‘Saumur, les écuyers du
temps’. This sound and light show
depicts several centuries of history
with special effects, stunt riding, 150
actors... Before the show, visitors can
enjoy dinner under the lime trees to
discover local specialties, such as the
famous stuffed fouées.
The museum, on the first floor of
the East wing of the château, presents a wide range of collections
relating to decorative art, fine art,
natural sciences... The ceramics
collection is one of the largest in
France. The tour can be done alone
or with a guide. Visitors can wander through areas dating back to
the 14th century. In the North wing,
they will be able to go behind the
scenes of the museum thanks to an
educational exhibit. True to Saumur,
the château houses a horse museum
displaying a collection of objects
from Antiquity up until the early
twentieth century and from a wide
range of continents. As a result of
extensive restoration work undertaken since 2004, a selection of these
collections is presented in the room
known as the abbey.
Turquant, arts and crafts village
In this troglodytic village, around
twelve artists and craftsmen master the art of fire and stone.
www.turquant.fr
The Saut aux Loups mushroom farm
Visitors can discover the various
stages of mushroom cultivation at
this troglodytic site.
www.troglo-sautauxloups.com
© D. Drouet
9
Château of Brézé
Owned by the Colbert family, the Château of Brézé stands amid vineyards. However, this elegant Renaissance building
has a hidden part. It conceals one of the most significant underground fortresses in Europe with a length of over a
kilometre. Open to visitors since 1998, the Château of Brézé offers exceptional examples of interior, neo-gothic and
neo-Renaissance architecture still kept to this day, as well as the apartments of Monseigneur de Dreux-Brézé, listed as
official historic monuments.
Coming up in 2014
Easter at Château de Brézé
(April 19 th-21st)
Easter egg hunt and chocolate tastings.
Cyrano de Bergerac (May 16th-17th)
A walking show in the underground fortress.
The Year 1446 (June 14th-15th)
Medieval jousts at Château de Brézé.
Anjou Vintage Cycling (June 28 th-29 th)
Hundreds of cyclists straight from the
turn of the century will stop over at the
chateau.
© S. Bonniol - Breze dry Moat
At a glance
Museography
In the area
A château beneath a château
Via a door opening onto the courtyard, a tunnel dug into the freestone
leads underground. Visitors can discover a fortified stately habitat where
silos and skylights remain. A walkway
then leads to the deepest dry moat in
Europe (18 metres) with a drawbridge
cave. Accessible by a staircase built
into the rock, the underground bakery is still used to bake bread on special occasions such as the Christmas
market. The wine-pressing room and
huge cellars were used to produce
Brézé wine until 1976.
The château can be visited either
with or without a guide. It was used
as a genuine living space and the
panoramic view from the top of the
towers offers a better understanding of the various reconstructions
as well as the 30 hectare vine area.
On the first floor, the Great Hall,
decorated in 2006, contains paintings of the royal family as well as
work showing the seven brothers of
the Dreux house, ancestors of the
current owner. This year, the private apartments of the Dreux-Brézé
family, inhabited until 2010, will be
open to the public for guided tours.
Visitors can discover, for example,
the Marquess’ kitchen, where her
meals were prepared until her death
in 1991. The dining room, a listed
historic monument, is also not to
be missed; The visitor can sense
the presence of the owners and the
room reflects their way of life with
a collection of weapons and armour
on display.
Doué-la-Fontaine’s zoo
A zoo featuring spectacular animals
in a maze of rock at the heart of flourishing vegetation.
www.bioparc-zoo.fr
The troglodyte village of LouresseRochemenier
Located in the plains, it consists of
two former farms with houses and
outbuildings carved into the rock.
www.troglodyte.fr
© S. Bonniol - Breze panoramic windows
10
Fontevraud Abbey
The Fontevraud Abbey, one of the oldest monastic cities in Europe, necropolis of the Plantagenêts, shelters the polychrome effigies of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart. Founded by Robert d’Abrissel in 1101, this jewel of
the Anjou architecture housed a double community and was run by women up until 1792. First a monastic city then
royal abbey, it was transformed into a prison in 1804 by Napoleon I and was used for this purpose until 1963. It is now
a cultural meeting centre and the Abbey is a prized venue for concerts, conferences, exhibitions, as well as residence
for artists (music and animated film).
Coming up in 2014
“Animal » exhibition by Grégoire Solotareff (April 5th - November 11th)
Conference on “The Secrets of Richard’s
Heart” with Philippe Charlier (May 17th)
An Ideal City “Open Book” (June 14th)
Concerts, debates… a look at books,
creativity and the Abbey in 2014.
Opening of the hotel and restaurant in
June
From this summer, enjoy the chance to
stay in this outstanding site.
©D. Darrault - Fontevraud Au chevet de l’abbatiale (The apse of Fontevraud abbey)
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Hotel, restaurant and iBar
Sleeping in the serene silence of the
Abbey, sitting down to breakfast in
the priory’s orchard or strolling alone
through Fontevraud at nightfall are
all unforgettable experiences. With
this in mind, the development of Fontevraud Abbey’s hotel and restaurant
will add appropriate color and flavor.
The tailor-made décor of this new
feature set in the heart of the Abbey
is designed and created by the designers Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku,
and its keystones are elegance, restraint and authenticity.
The iPad visit. For a fun family way
to discover Fontevraud’s history, all
you need is the iPad treasure hunt.
Children aged 7 to 14, and all the
rest of the family, can discover Fontevraud while hunting for Bozzons,
those small mischievous characters
hiding all around the grounds. To
catch them, follow their tracks using
an iPad. And learn as you go along
about the lives of the nuns and
the prisoners here. There are mini
games to play at each stage of the
hunt…
Montsoreau, a town full of character
The Abbey also enjoys an artistic
role by commissioning large-scale
works each year from contemporary
artists such as Vincent La¬mouroux,
Claude Levêque, François Morellet.
This town is framed by the Loire,
next to which rises a 15th century château, made famous by
Alexandre Dumas’s novel “La
dame de Monsoreau”.
www.v ille-montsoreau.fr
The Loire-Anjou-Touraine nature park
The first Loire park, this regional nature park covers an area of
271,000 hectares extending from
the Touraine to Anjou.
www.parc-loire-anjou-touraine.fr
©D. Darrault - «Mort en été» (Dead in the summer)
de Claude Lêvêque
11
The royal fortress of Chinon
Overlooking the Vienne territory, the royal fortress of Chinon was where, in 1429, Charles VII received Joan of Arc:
she had come to reassure him of his legitimacy and convinced him to be crowned in Reims. After five years of unprecedented reconstruction work in Europe, the fortress has returned to its former glory. Since 2010, the site has presented
its treasures through interactive devices.
Coming up in 2014
Templars - Scenic trail (April 19 th - November 30 th)
A temporary exhibition which will immerse you in the world of the medieval
Crusades
Night time (3 days in July – August)
Illumination of the fortress and the Templar scenic trail
Family activities
During the school holidays
iPad New for 2014
The new tool for visiting and (re-)discovering the fortress from a new angle.
©Kohe - fortress Chinon
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Unprecedented reconstruction work
For five years, reconstruction work
has taken place so that visitors can understand the coherence of one of the
largest defensive medieval fortresses
in France. The royal lodgings have
regained the look of local 15th century
lodging without going through an
identical reconstruction. At the same
time, archaeological excavations have
found, for example, traces of Gallic
and Gallo-Roman occupation of the
site. It is the largest project of its kind
in Europe.
With an interactive museum and
scenes - sound banks, touchscreens,
enhanced reality, 3D models, the
royal fortress of Chinon takes visitors to the heart of history. The visitor is accompanied by a booklet,
with its cover containing a chip to
trigger sound or interactive kiosks
throughout the visit. The exhibition tour of the royal house allows
visitors to immerse themselves in
the civil and military history of the
fortress and slip into the skin of
the great figures who have marked
the life of the fortress. New tools
for tactile and audio mediation and
tours adapted to the visually impaired have been in place since 2013.
Riveau’s castle and gardens
Medieval fortress surrounded by
14 fairytale gardens.
www.chateaudurivau.com
Musée Rabelais
La Devinière is the house where
François Rabelais was born; visitors are invited to enter into the
world of the author who wrote
the Gargantua and Pantagruel
novels.
www.musee-rabelais.fr
© cg37
12
Château of Langeais
Built during the reign of Louis XI, the Château of Langeais offers one of the finest collections of furniture and tapestries and highlights the medieval lifestyle. The château has witnessed crucial episodes in the history of France. Charles
VIII and Anne of Brittany married there in secret, marking the incorporation of Brittany into the kingdom of France. In
the park, there are the ruins of the oldest stone keep in France, built around 1000AD by the Count of Anjou, Foulques
Nerra.
Coming up in 2014
Renaissance Costume Exhibition
(April 11th - August 31st)
In the chateau’s attics, this exhibition displays some twenty costumes showing the
evolution of European fashion and style
in the 16th century. An area is dedicated
to children – a room for trying on recreated costumes and a podium. A unique
opportunity to play at being a Renaissance
model.
Life of the chateau (June 7th-8 th)
For a whole weekend, re-enactors in
period costume bring various historical
characters to life with the help of visitors.
They bustle about preparing the château
for a wedding.
©J-B. Rabouan - Château of Langeais
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Activities throughout the summer
In summertime the chateau comes
to life and the visitor is plunged into
a journey back in time. The stillfunctioning drawbridge goes up and
down six times a day as part of an
acted performance. Every Thursday,
families can find out about the chateau through an original tour led by
Anne de Bretagne’s double who will
tell them all about the customs of the
court and her wedding, on Tuesdays,
Wednesdays and Thursdays. There
will also be a dramatized nocturnal
tour on Wednesdays and Thursdays,
with an actress to describe the life of
women in the Middle Ages.
The château includes fifteen furnished rooms with decorated tiles
and wall hangings from the fifteenth
and sixteenth centuries. Restored by
Jacques Siegfried in the nineteenth
century, they evoke the refined art
of living in the late Middle Ages.
The historic marriage between
Anne of Brittany and Charles VIII is
portrayed with fifteen realistic-looking wax characters. A reading area
and activity books are available for
children for fun learning.
Château of Gizeux
Gardens
In the park, visitors can admire the
ruins of the tower built by Foulques
Nerra in the 10 th century. Children can pretend to be assailants
on reconstructed medieval scaffolding while their parents enjoy a
stunning view of the city and the
castle. The park offers a fascinating
path through the trees. The cabin
perched in a two hundred-year-old
Atlas cedar will delight visitors of
all ages.
Stay in one of the largest inhabited dwellings in Touraine, Anjou.
www.chateaudegizeux.com
Wine Cave of Bourgueil
Guided visit of the troglodytic
museum with presentation and
tasting of local wines.
www.cavesbourgueil.com
©J-B. Rabouan - Château of Langeais
13
Château of Azay-le-Rideau
The Château of Azay-le-Rideau was built during the reign of François I by Gilles Berthelot, the King’s treasurer. The
château reflects a new way of building which combines French style from the sixteenth century with architectural
innovations of the Italian Renaissance. In the nineteenth century, the Biencourt family completed this work of art and
gave it its current configuration. The château of Azay-le-Rideau thus became the architectural jewel of the Loire Valley
reflecting in its famous water mirrors.
Coming up in 2014
In the library, eleven 16th century portraits
belonging to the Biencourt family, the last
family to own the property back in the
19th century, will be on display again.
Night time opening of the chateau in July
and August 2014.
Tasting Week (October 14th - 20 th)
The Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau revives the
traditions of the last family owners of the
property in the 19th century, the Biencourt
family, by paying homage to the love of
good food. The program includes workshops on “sweets and delicacies”, conferences, tastings, lectures on good food,
themed tours…
©Château of Azay-le-Rideau
At a glance
Gardens
In the area
Philippe Lesbahy’s bedchamber – history of a renaissance
In the sixteenth century, the rooms
were decorated with rush mats, none
of which of remain today. The Château of Azay-le-Rideau has restored
and returned this ambience and original decor to the bedchamber of Phillipe Lesbahy, wife of Gilles Berthelot.
This restoration respects the skills,
materials and the art of living in the
sixteenth century.
2014 marks a year of major restoration work on the park and gardens,
listed in 1905 as a Historic Monument, to restore its romantic character. It includes important work on
hydraulic systems, the banks and
the architecture of the park. With
the creation of a flower garden, a
vegetable garden and thousands of
bulbs and perennials, the château
is preparing for its application for
‘Jardin Remarquable’ status.
Troglodytic Valley of Goupillières
Visitor trails
©Château of Azay-le-Rideau
The grand staircase, by which visitors discover the castle, was one
of the first French staircases built
in the Italian style. Inside, visitors
are invited to discover rooms from
the sixteenth century, the royal
apartment and the rooms occupied
by the Biencourt family, who lived
there during the nineteenth century. Audio guides are available in
five languages.
A series of troglodytic farms revealing the way of life of peasant
cave-dwellers in the valley.
www.troglodytedesgoupillieres.fr
Poires Tapées of Rivarennes
Fruits tapés, or “beaten fruit”
(mainly apples and pears) are
one of the specialties of the Loire
Valley. The production technique
is ancient and consists of slow
dehydration of the fruit in wood
fired ovens after which they are
“flattened” using wooden mallets. This gives them the benefit of long conservation and eliminates the risk of deterioration
during transport.
http://asso-petri.fr
www.poirestapees.com
14
Château and Gardens of Villandry
The last of the Loire Châteaux built during the Renaissance, the Château of Villandry is unique in that it was not a royal
residence, but that of Jean Le Breton, the Finance Minister to François I. This furnished family home is inseparable from
its gardens which are a genuine masterpiece offering a dazzling array of colours. The Château of Villandry is famous
for its outstanding gardens, with the Renaissance garden being a particular highlight. Planted with both vegetables and
flowers, the garden becomes a multicoloured checkerboard throughout the seasons.
Coming up in 2014
Rendez-vous in the gardens for “Children
in the garden” (May 31st - June 1st)
“Villandry, kingdom of the birds”
(June 14th - September 10 th)
Photo exhibition.
Night of a Thousand Flames (July 4th - 5th)
The gardens are illuminated with 2,000
candles. An equestrian show: “Quadrupeds and fire”. And the evening closes
with a fireworks display.
Kitchen Garden Days (September 27th - 28 th)
Workshops, demonstrations, guided tours
and activities to unearth the gardeners’
tricks.
©Chateau & Gardens of Villandry
At a glance
Gardens
In the area
Eco-friendly gardens with an LPO certification
As of 2009, the head landscape gardener Laurent Portuguez has been
using his talents to create the organic
gardens and has since been awarded
the ‘Eco-Jardin’ (‘eco-friendly garden’)
accreditation. The Gardens of Villandry are committed to continuing and
expanding the work of preserving the
environment. This garden is visited by
thousands of tourists every year, and
the gardeners have placed special emphasis on restoring the ecological balance between insects, birds and small
mammals. The ecological processes
carried out in the gardens have contributed to the arrival of many birds. 90
different species of birds have been
recorded in the gardens, earning it the
unique label of a château of refuge by
the League for the Protection of Birds
(LPO).
Spread over successive terraces,
each garden has its own identity.
At the lowest level, the vegetable
garden is made up of nine squares
of equal size. At intermediate level,
the ornamentally designed ‘living
rooms’ act as areas for outdoor receptions. They consist of boxwood
and flowers with their patterns
evoking love, music and religion.
At the third level there is a water
garden, herb garden and maze. At
the highest level there is a recently created sun garden, designed in
2008 by Louis de Benech and Alix
de Saint-Venant based on sketches
by Joachim Carvallo. It respects the
principles of the Gardens of Villandry and forms a green area, planted
with lime trees.
The Priory of Saint-Cosme, Ronsard’s
home
Surrounded by rose gardens, the
ruins of the Priory of Saint-Cosme
are a reminder of the presence of
the poet.
www.prieure-ronsard.fr
Town of Tours
Saint-Gatien cathedral, the Plumereau square or the Musée du
Compagnonnage provide the perfect setting to discover this artistic and historic town.
www.tours-tourisme.fr
15
Royal city of Loches
Built on a rocky spur, the royal city of Loches is dominated by an impressive keep of 36 metres, the work of Foulques
Nerra and a model of military architecture from the Middle Ages. As one of the most impressive dungeons of its time
in Europe, it remains today one of the best preserved. Visitors are immersed in the prison world of the Middle Ages.
Close by stands the royal house which perfectly captures the style of the French Renaissance, overlooking the town
and the valley of the Indre. As a landmark in France’s history, the house has welcomed Joan of Arc, Agnès Sorel and
Anne of Brittany.
Coming up in 2014
History in period costume
(March 22nd - September 30 th)
The stories of the great characters who
have made their mark on the history of
the site are revisited through costumes
from the cinema, theatre, opera, etc.
Family activities
During the school holidays
Twenty centuries of sculpture in Touraine (October 1st - March 31st 2015)
Night time events
(3 dates in July - August)
Illumination of the fortress and the
Templar scenic trail.
©Richard TouraineCoteSud
At a glance
Museography
Loches market
Held every Wednesday and Saturday
(from 8am to 1pm) at the foot of the
royal city, in the interweaving medieval lower town, Loches market is
considered to be one of the most typical of the region. With a hundred or
so stall holders, there is the chance to
discover the quality of local farm produce: the well-known PDO cheeses
of Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine and Valençay, poultry such as the delicious
Géline de Touraine, pork rillons and
rillettes as well as dairy products
(milk, butter, cream) from the nearby
cooperative of Verneuil-sur-Indre.
As soon as visitors enter the dungeon, they are immersed in the prison world of the Middle Ages. The
staircase is made of 160 steps and
by its side is a recreation of the famous ‘cage Louis XI’ which housed
the prisoners. One of the highlights
is the visit to the top of the dungeon
which provides a truly unique view
over the Indre valley and the Loches
forest. Children will certainly enjoy
the underground dungeons where
they can discover the story of the
prisoners. History lovers will be
delighted with the visit of the royal
house. In the rooms of the house,
Flemish tapestries, armour and
paintings such as ‘Le Retable du
Liget’ and ‘La Prédiction du Christ’
attributed to Jehan Poyet from the
fifteenth century adorn the walls.
In the area
St Ours - Loches collegiate
The collegiate of Notre Dame, dedicated to Saint-Ours, evangelist
of Loches from the fifth century,
houses the tombs of Agnès Sorel.
Montrésor Village
Montrésor, one of the “Loveliest
Villages in France”, a few kilometers from Loches, is not to be
missed. Nicknamed Little Poland
because of its remarkable history,
the village comprises typical and
pretty lanes surrounding its 16th
century castle-fort and collegiate
church.
www.tourisme-valdindrois-montresor.com
©Ellipse - Royal City of Loches
16
Château of Clos Lucé
At the invitation of François I, Leonardo da Vinci lived the last three years of his life at the Château of Clos Lucé, and
devoted himself to the completion of his inventions. Prolific and inspired, he worked as an engineer, architect and even
director, organising lavish parties for the Court. Behind the pink and white facade of the Renaissance château you can
still sense the spirit of the Italian master who lived there until his death in 1519. A landscaped path allows visitors to
discover the many facets of this genius of the Renaissance.
Coming up in 2014
“The World of Creation” exhibition (April
30 th - May 25th)
Dedicated to great skilled craftsmen. To celebrate fifty years of Franco-Chinese diplomatic
relations, the guest country will be China.
The European Festival of Renaissance Music
(September 26th - 28 th)
The most prestigious ensembles gather here
each year.
©Léonard de Serres - Château of clos Lucé
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Leonardo da Vinci, master of entertainment
Leonardo da Vinci was also the organiser of the festivities at the Court
of France. In September 1517, he
constructed a robot in the form of a
lion which, when the King hit it in the
chest, released lilies. In 1518, he organised a party at the Château of Clos
Lucé which Prince Galeazzo Visconti
described as ‘a party from heaven’.
The ongoing exhibition ‘Léonard de
Vinci et la France’ addresses this little
known side of the artist.
The Château of Clos Lucé presents
Leonardo da Vinci the engineer in
three stages: in the basement a collection of 50 3D animation models,
the ‘Léonard de Vinici ingénieur’
exhibition and 40 life-sized models
within the park. A free iPhone app
focuses on the life of Leonardo da
Vinci and guides users during their
visit. It incorporates a 360 ° panoramic view to enjoy the beauty of the
site.
Pâtisserie Bigot
Gardens
To understand the skills of the Italian
artist, his work is displayed along a
walk through the park. Visitors can
listen to commentaries about his
work, which are emitted through
eight sound terminals, and observe
the 40 translucent paintings based
on the sketches of his paintings. At
the heart of the park, ‘Le Jardin de
Léonard’ brings to life the botanical
drawings, geological and hydrodynamic studies and landscapes.
For 4 generations, the chocolatemaker Bigot, located at the heart of
the town of Amboise, has produced
homemade chocolates which are both
creative and delicious.
www.bigot-amboise.com
Vouvray’s winemakers’ cellars
Guided tours of the wine cellars in
the 2.5km troglodytic caves where 4
million bottles have been produced.
www.cp-vouvray.com
©Léonard de Serres - Château of Clos Lucé
17
Royal Château of Amboise
Built on a rocky spur overlooking the Loire, the Royal Château of Amboise offers one of the most beautiful views of
the Loire Valley. This former royal residence combines the power of medieval fortification with delicate Renaissance
touches. Numerous scholars and European artists stayed there during the Renaissance, including Leonardo Da Vinci
who was buried in the château’s chapel.
Coming up in 2014
‘Avanti la Musica’ festival (June 21st to
July 20 th)
Popular festivities, classical concerts, theatre
and games; the castle comes alive, Italian
style.
Night-time show ‘A la cour du Roy François’ (Wednesdays and Saturdays from
June 21st to August 30 th)
Light and water displays, fireworks, cavalry
scenes and demonstration of Renaissance
dancing with 250 extras to relive the reign
of François I.
Christmas over the centuries (November
29 th to January 11th 2015).
©L. de Serres - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Visitors will be immersed in the magic of the
Christmas nativity through the centuries.
At a glance
A family day out at the château
As a nursery to the royal family, the
château was the backdrop for the
youth and education of ten queens
and seven young kings, including
François I. It is therefore natural that
the castle welcomes children throughout the year for creative activities
and fun immersion into the history
of France. For example, the new tour
‘Les Enfants à la Cour Royale à la
Renaissance’ invites children to experience the lives of princes and princesses by trying knight equipment,
listening to a royal audience, discovering food from the time, playing...
They will be provided with a booklet
which includes illustrations, games
and stories.
Museography
Underground tunnels are exceptionally open to the public. Guided
tours taking visitors ‘behind the
scenes of history’ offer a journey
to the depths of the medieval château. This year, 20 new pieces have
been added to the château’s collections, in order to make better use of
the rooms’ functionality: the king’s
chamber, the Council Chamber with
its restored throne.
In the area
Valmer’s gardens
These Italian gardens offer a
beautiful view of the Touraine
www.chateaudevalmer.com
Chanteloup’s pagoda
Gardens
Inspired by the Renaissance, the
gardens were designed in the late
fifteenth century by an Italian monk
and landscape designer. Redeveloped in the nineteenth century
they replace the missing buildings
inside the fortress, and have undergone redevelopment work over the
past few years. Cypress, boxwood
and oak trees surround the area. On
the highest terrace stands a Muslim cemetery which reminds us that
the Emir Abd El Kader lived under
house arrest in Amboise from 1848
to 1852. Twenty-five of his people
who accompanied him to France are
buried there.
An 18th century folly, it offers
spectacular views of the forest
of Amboise and the Loire Valley
thanks to its height of 44 metres.
www.pagode-chanteloup.com
©Eric Sander - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
18
Château of Chenonceau
Built in 1513, the Château of Chenonceau still bears the hallmarks of its creator, Katherine Bohier. Embellished successively by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici, and maintained during the Revolution by Madame Dupin, the
château deserves its name of ‘château des dames’ (‘ladies’ castle’). A mecca of the Renaissance, it stands out thanks
to its unique architecture that spans the waters of the Cher and its beautiful gardens. Chenonceau offers an outstanding museum collection of paintings by the great masters and a rare selection of Flemish tapestries from the sixteenth
century.
Coming up in 2014
Chenonceau reveals its hidden treasures
The Medici Gallery: works of art and
rare objects, the stages of construction
and landmarks in the history of the chateau.
The Harness Gallery: a unique collection
of harnesses – 16th century farm.
Opening first half of 2014
Domes Gallery: new exhibit “From 1914
to 1918, Chenonceau is turned into a Military Hospital”.
© Image de Marc
At a glance
Gardens
Sustainable growing methods at Chenonceau
Pesticides halved, organic fertilisers,
fresh anti-aphids, different types of
mulching and selective watering. This
procedure has been in place for several years and requires close observation and plenty of manpower! The
gardeners devote three times more
time than previously to hand weeding
the soil of 40,000 flowers over several
hectares!
A majestic path of trees, one kilometre in length, leads visitors into
the gardens of Diane de Poitiers
and Catherine de Medici. The green
garden, designed by Bernard Palissy, the maze and the night walk
accompanied by the music of Arcangelo Corelli, a master of Italian
classicism, provide visitors with a
glimpse into life in the sixteenth
century. The château’s floral decoration offers a very wide range of
cut flowers. They are grown in the
10,000m2 ‘flower garden’, which is
open to visitors and surrounded by
climbing rose bushes. Chenonceau
is the only French château to have a
flower workshop.
Museography
Chenonceau is a château which is
continuously innovating. The visit is
free and a booklet is available in 16
languages and an audio-guided iPod
video available in 11 languages. Its
high resolution colour screen displays
all the castle’s ‘little extras’. Software
applications for 7-12 year-olds are
also available to allow youngsters to
discover the château in a fun way.
In the area
‘La Bélandre’ : Chenonceau by boat
A guided tour along the Cher, and
beneath the arches of the château
aboard ‘La Bélandre’ a ‘Gabare’,
a traditional Loire boat.
www.labelandre.com
Château of the Bourdaisière
This charming hotel has a tomato
conservatory (more than 650 varieties) within its gardens.
www.labourdaisiere.com
© Image de Marc
19
Regional Domain of
Chaumont-sur-Loire
Behind a landscaped park planted with old cedars looms the castle of Chaumont-sur-Loire, offering a spectacular view
over the Loire. The Domain was at the height of its glory in the late nineteenth century under the ownership of the
Prince and Princess de Broglie. Modern stables were installed and landscape architect Henri Duchêne was entrusted
with creating an English park. The extravagant princess was known to organise renowned receptions there. The regional Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire has emerged as the first Centre of Arts and Nature entirely dedicated to nature and
culture and artistic creation.
Coming up in 2014
International Gardens Festival
(April 25th - November 2nd)
23rd Festival on the theme ‘Gardens of
the deadly sins.’
Gardens of lights (July-August)
A romantic nocturnal walk through the
Festival.
Exhibitions from the Arts and Nature
Center (April 5th - November 2nd)
Exhibition in the chateau of works
specially created for the Domain
by Gabriel Orozco, a special commission
by the Centre region.
©T.Brönner – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
New: Chateau illuminated all year.
At a glance
Gardens
In the area
An artistic initiative
The first arts center devoted to the relationship between artistic creativity
and Nature. The Regional Domain of
Chaumont welcomes installations by
many contemporary artists. Visitors
will delight in the “tree pathway” by
Giuseppe Penone, willow sculptures
by Patrick Dougherty, cabins perched
in trees by Tadashi Kawamata or the
mist sculpture by Fujiko Nakaya. The
pieces commissioned by the Domain
bring a new emotional and aesthetic
dimension to this site as each artist is
invited to create unique works in situ.
The park and its ‘Festival des Jardins’ have been awarded ‘Jardin
remarquable’ status by the Ministry
of Culture and Communication. A
unique view of the untamed banks
of the Loire is visible from the terrace. The International Garden Festival takes place in the park and
celebrates the creation of multiple
gardens around a new theme each
year. The Festival sees 30 gardens on
display from April 25th to November
2nd under the theme ‘Gardens of the
deadly sins’ (‘Jardins des péchés capitaux’). Designers from around the
world have designed the most amazing projects. 26 were selected by
the jury, chaired in 2014 by William
Christie. Five others were designed
for the castle grounds by ‘celebrity
guests.’
Discover the Loire in a traditional
boat
Chaumont L’archipel © Shodo Suzuki
The private boat company, «Millière Raboton, homme de Loire»
takes visitors to see the fauna and
flora of the river.
www.milliere-raboton.net
Château of Fougères-sur-Bièvre
Built in the late fifteenth century,
it symbolises the ideal castle.
www.fougeres-sur-bievre.monuments-nationaux.fr
Chaumont Sculpture de brume
© Fujiko Nakaya
20
The Royal Château of Blois
The Royal Château of Blois presents an overview of the art and history of the Loire Valley. Through the diversity of its
architectural style, the building recalls the story and destiny of seven kings and ten queens. All around the courtyard,
the four wings of the château form a great example of the evolution of French architecture from the thirteenth to the
seventeenth century. With 35,000 works, the Royal Château of Blois houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts located in the
Louis XII wing.
Coming up in 2014
Sound and light show ‘Ainsi Blois vous
est conté’ (every evening from April 5th –
September 21st).
Audioguide in 6 languages available.
“Chateau Gardens in the Renaissance”
exhibition (July 5th - November 2nd).
Fencing show and music in the courtyard: ‘À double tranchant’
(July 14th – August 24th)
©Daniel Lepissier - Royal Château of Blois
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Opening of 3 new rooms – The King’s
Chambers
“The Chamber of the Wars of Religion” displays weapons with blades
to illustrate the violence of the Wars.
The two other rooms are dedicated
to the gardens with one opening to
the grounds and showing the ancient
royal gardens of Blois by means of an
orientation table.
The tour of the château has recently been redesigned with a highly
contemporary light and sound sign
system. Visitors are immersed into
the life of the Court of the Renaissance period. The ‘salle des Etats
Généraux’ has six interactive multimedia displays presenting the history of the Royal Castle.
The house of magic in Blois
©Royal Château of Blois
The only public museum in Europe which displays a permanent
collection of magic and performing arts all in one place.
www.maisondelamagie.fr
Children are kings
Children enter an original and unexpected universe. A new booklet
with games included is provided for
a fun discovery of the château via
questions, puzzles... An adapted
sign system has been set up with
children’s signs illustrated by the
animal Cornélia, a fantasy animal
who is also your tour guide. With
the family visit, parents and children
will get to attempt to free François I.
Themed tours for the whole family
are available with audio guides including dramatised scenes.
Blois, a town of art and history
Fo r t if icat ion s, ha lf-t i m b er ed
houses, Renaissance mansions,
episcopal palace... Clear sign
posting, guided tours and a new
mobile app help you discover this
rich heritage.
www.bloischambord.com
21
Château of Cheverny
A remarkable example of seventeenth century classicism, the Château of Cheverny boasts a wonderfully rich interior.
A private castle, it has been inhabited by the same family for over six centuries. Visitors are invited to discover an
authentic, unique and living heritage. The splendid decoration and array of furniture never ceases to amaze visitors
that cross its threshold.
Coming up in 2014
Plant festival (March 23rd - 24th)
Garden lovers will find many varieties of
plants, fruits and objects related to the art of
living in the garden.
13th Cheverny Marathon (April 7th)
An exceptional course in the heart of the
estate.
A Night in April at Cheverny - New
(April 26th) Exceptional evening event
(April 26th - 27th) Venetian Carnival with more
than 100 participants in costume.
Jazz’in Cheverny (June)
@C. Mouton – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
7th edition of the Jazz evenings at the castle.
At a glance
Gardens
In the area
In the footsteps of Tintin
The façade of the castle might look
familiar to Tintin fans. It inspired the
cartoonist Hergé for his drawing of
Marlinspike Hall. An interactive exhibit, ‘The Secrets of Moulinsart’ produced in collaboration with the Hergé
Foundation, immerses visitors in the
world of Tintin characters and their
adventures.
The estate has a vast English style park
of 100 hectares. Visitors can hop on
board boats and electric cars.
Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny AOC
Maison des Vins in Cheverny
New
Tulip Garden: Between the lake and the
lawns near the château, 60,000 tulip
bulbs have been planted to form the château’s third garden, following the creation in 2006 of the kitchen garden and
the apprentices’ garden.
Opening of the chapel: For the first time
since the opening of the château, the public will now be able to visit the chapel.
Opening of the Maze: designed by
Charles-Antoine de Vibraye himself and
made from laurels, the maze has a very
geometric form, but this does not make
it any easier to get your bearings.
The Kennels house the largest private
pack of hounds in France. The hounds’
dinner, at 5pm every day from 1st April
to 15th September, is not to be missed.
Located close to the castle, the
Cheverny and Cour-Cheverny
Maison des Vins offers visitors
the chance to discover this wine
area in a unique and innovative
way.
www.maisondesvinsdecheverny.fr
Château of Troussay
Located 3 km from Cheverny, this
Renaissance castle is typical of
the Loire Valley and Sologne.
www.chateaudetroussay.com
©P. Bousseaud - CRT Centre-Val de Loire
22
National Domain of Chambord
For almost five centuries, Chambord has continued to fascinate visitors. Born from the dream of François I, it remains
one of the greatest masterpieces of architectural work of the French Renaissance with its 77 staircases, 282 fireplaces...
and in particular its double staircase where two people can climb up and down the stairs without ever crossing paths.
In addition there is an outstanding 5,540-hectare natural park, equivalent to the area of central Paris. Each year the
National Domain of Chambord hosts a unique program of concerts, exhibitions...
Coming up in 2014
New features: In March, a new promenade planted along the Cosson canal
and the opening of the English garden
in April.
Equestrian show
(May 1st - September 30 th)
Philippe Cognée exhibition
(May 18 th - October 12th)
4th Festival of Chambord (July 4th – 19 th)
Music concerts
©P. Bousseaud-CRT Centre-Val de Loire
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Philippe Cognée Exhibition
(May 18 th - October 12th)
On the 2nd floor of the chateau
Philippe Cognée is undoubtedly one
of the greatest painters on the French
scene today. Having begun by painting
landscapes intriguingly filled with wild
animals during the 1980s, the artist
has been developing a unique process
since 1991 inspired by photography and
which he combines with his work on
the effects of encaustic painting heated up on the canvas. He applies this
technique to resolutely contemporary
themes such as urban architecture,
portraits, aerial views, supermarkets,
recycling plants and everyday objects.
Altogether, 70 works will be displayed
at Chambord making this exhibition,
along with that held at the Museum
of Grenoble in 2013, one of the most
important devoted to Philippe Cognée.
Almost 90 rooms are open to visitors with or without a guide. Parents
and children can meet characters
from the past (brother Thomas,
Jeanne the underling, the King’s
watchmaker...) and take a trip back
in time to experience the château.
Cassandra, the salamander, invites
children aged 8 to 12 years old to
investigate the secrets of Chambord
for an unforgettable visit.
Max Vauché Chocolate Factory in
Bracieux
Nature
As the largest enclosed forest park
in Europe, it is almost equivalent to
the surface area of the city of Paris.
Classified as a national hunting and
wild animal reserve in 1947, the
Domain is now home to exciting
wildlife, including deer and wild
boar, which are its iconic species.
The park and the surrounding areas
of the château can be discovered on
foot, by bike, by boat and also by
4x4.
A unique location for all those
interested in making and tasting
chocolate.
www.maxvauche-chocolatier.com
Château of Villesavin
Two museums add to the visit of
the Renaissance château, one featuring horse-drawn carriages and
the other themed on marriage.
www.chateau-de-villesavin.com
23
Château of Valençay
The Château of Valençay was founded in 1540 on the ruins of an old feudal castle. In the Renaissance style, it has
gradually taken hints of the classic style over its history. In 1803, it became the property of the Prince of Talleyrand,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Napoleon I, who used it for diplomatic purposes and organised numerous events there.
Richly furnished and decorated with wood panelling that combines the styles of the Empire, Louis XVI and Régence,
the Château of Valençay embodies the splendour of the Prince of Talleyrand, who owned it for over thirty years.
Coming up in 2014
“Sweet Thursdays” at Château de Valençay : (first Thursday of the month, April
through November, except public holidays) in partnership with Les Tables Gourmandes du Berry
Exhibitions:
“Orchid Passion” (May 1st - June 15th)
“Lacquered Treasures”
(July 1st - August 31st)
“1813, the Treaty of Valençay”
(September 20 th - November 16th)
Empire Weekend – Living History
(August 30 th - 31th)
© Château de Valençay - Michel Chassat
At a glance
Gardens
In the area
Splendour recovered
The Château of Valençay hosts prestigious events worthy of celebrations
organised by the Prince of Talleyrand:
‘Visites aux Chandelles’ (Candlelit
Tours), concerts or plays in the ‘Petit
Théâtre’, recently opened to the public. For two weekends in April, historical reconstructions from the 1st
Empire plunge visitors into the heart
of living history.
The château has several gardens
: the French gardens, the garden
of the Duchess, the Damier Fleuri
(flowery checkboard)... extending
over a park of more than 53 hectares. Focusing on biodiversity and
comprising 65 multicolored squares
of wild flowers, the Flowering Chequerboard will captivate nature lovers. Visitors can also discover the
Forêt des Princes (Princes’ forest) on
foot or by electric cart for a historic
four-kilometre forest trip. Fun activities for all the family are available
such as the Grand Labyrinthe de
Napoléon (the largest game-maze in
France) in which both young and old
can explore the Napoleonic legend.
Zoo Parc of Beauval
Museography
Built in 1810, the ‘Petit Théâtre’
(‘Little Theatre’), which has retained its period decor, opened in 2012
as part of Sunday morning ‘private
tours’. Every room in the château is
home to outstanding furniture, whether in the state rooms, private apartments or kitchens. An audio-guided
tour guides the visitor through the
various rooms of the château. Guided
tours every Sunday afternoon.
The zoo is home to the largest
animal collection in France
www.zoobeauval.com
Château of Bouges
An elegant eighteenth century
residence surrounded by a park
and gardens; perfect for family
outings.
www.bouges.monuments-nationaux.fr
© Château de Valençay - Michel Chassat
24
Château of Sully-sur-Loire
The Château of Sully-sur-Loire has stood on the banks of the Loire since the end of the fourteenth century. As the
Eastern entrance to the Loire Valley, this genuine medieval fortress boasts a compelling silhouette thanks to its wide
moat (still filled with water), its huge keep and high towers. Inseparable from its famous owner, the Duke of Sully, the
château still has some hidden treasures such as the tapestries of Psyché as well as structures dating from the fourteenth century.
Coming up in 2014
41st edition of the Festival of Sully and Loiret
(In the chateau : May 18th, May 25th, June
1st)
This event allows the audience to discover
and visit the place which hosts concerts and
outstanding Loiret architectural heritage
sites.
“Recumbent Effigies”: Photographic exhibition by Antoine Schneck
(June 20 th - September 21st)
Photographic interpretation of the effigies of
the kings and queens of France from royal
monuments.
“The Four Seasons of Gastronomy” Sundays
(from 11am to 2pm) April 30 th, July 27th, October 12th, December 7th.
A theatrical and culinary tour across time.
©D. Chauveau - Château of Sully-sur-Loire
At a glance
Museography
In the area
Gastronomy at the chateau
Gastronomy will be top of the menu
in 2014 at Chateau de Sully-sur-Loire.
Throughout the year you will find
the “Four Seasons of Gastronomy”
offering 4 different events centered on
gastronomy. These will evolve with
the seasons and will each represent
a historical period: the Middle Ages,
the Renaissance, the 18th century
and the 19th century. In October,
visitors can continue their gastronomic initiation with “Cooking at the
Chateau” when cooking workshops,
conferences and tastings will be available.
As part of its policy of promoting its
heritage, the Loiret General Council
continues to enhance and restore
the chateau’s rooms and collections.
This year, restoration work will focus on the tapestries in the bedroom
of the Square Tower and the domed
canopy bed. In addition, Chateau
de Sully-sur-Loire is embracing multimedia with the introduction of a
new website and a film recounting
the chateau’s history (multilingual
versions in French, English and German). Numerous activities will be
available for children during the
school holidays in the form of booklets and shows.
The aqueduct of Briare
The aqueduct, partly designed by
the creators of the Eiffel Tower, is
one of the most prestigious river
heritage sites in France.
www.briare-le-canal.com
The Abbey of Saint-Benoit-sur-Loire
A jewel of Romanesque architecture in which the enthusiasm of
the monks who live there infuses
the visit.
www.abbaye-fleury.com
©P. Bousseaud – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
25
Practical Information
Getting there
Loire Valley region
www.loirevalleytourism.com
By Car (distance from Paris)
Chartres : 92 km
Orléans : 133 km
Blois : 186 km
Amboise : 226 km
Tours : 240 km
Châteauroux : 272 km
By train (average travel time)
From Paris-Austerlitz:
Orléans: 1hr / Blois: 1hr 35min
Bourges: 1hr 50 min / Tours: 2hr 15min
Châteauroux: 2hr 10min
=> via the motorways: A10, A11, A71, A20
By plane (Transfer by car)
Paris Orly Airport:
Chartres: 1hr 05min / Orléans: 1hr 25min
Blois: 1hr 50min / Tours: 2hr 10min
Bourges: 2hr 30min / Châteauroux: 2hr 30min
From Paris-Montparnasse:
Chartres: 1hr 05min
by T.G.V.
Vendôme: 40min
Saint Pierre des Corps: 55min / Tours Centre: 1hr 05min
From Roissy Charles de Gaulle:
Saint Pierre des Corps: 1hr 40min/ Tours Centre: 1hr 50min
Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport:
Chartres: 1hr 30min / Orléans: 1hr 50min
Blois: 2hr 15min / Tours: 2hr 35min
Bourges: 2hr 50min / Châteauroux: 3hr
Tours Airport:
Direct flights from London Stansted, Manchester, Dublin
and Porto
Pays de la Loire Region
www.paysdelaloire.co.uk
By car
A11: Paris-Le Mans-Angers-Nantes
Nantes: 3hr 30 min - 345 km
A87: Angers-Cholet-Les Essarts
Angers: 2hr 50min - 265 km.
By plane (Transfer by car)
Orly Airport :
Nantes: 3hr 40min / Angers: 2hr 35min
By train
Numerous daily TGV links between Paris, Lille and Lyon
and the main towns of the Pays de la Loire
From Paris-Montparnasse:
Angers: 1hr 50min
Saumur: 1hr 50min via TGV then regional train from
Saint-Pierre-des-Corps or Angers.
Nantes: 2hr 10min
Roissy-Charles-de-Gaulle Airport:
Nantes: 4hr / Angers: 3hr
Nantes Airport:
Direct flights from Europe & Montreal (Canada)
To find out more about «La Loire à Vélo» cycle route :
www.cycling-loire.com
26
Practical Information
Staying there
Centre Region
The Royal Fortress of Chinon
Restaurant Au chapeau Rouge : www.auchapeaurouge.fr
Hotel Agnès Sorel : www.hotel-agnes-sorel.com.
Château of Langeais and the surrounding area
Restaurant « Au Coin des Halles » : www.aucoindeshalles.com
Bed and Breakfast L’Ange est rêveur : www.langeaisreveur.fr
Vincent, cuisinier de campagne : http://vincentcuisinierdecampagne.blogspot.fr
Château of Azay-le-Rideau and the surrounding area
Bed and Breakfast Troglododo : www.troglododo.fr/fr/
Bed and Breakfast Troglo Délice :www.troglodelice.com/
Château and Gardens of Villandry and the surrounding area
Restaurant La Doulce Terrace : www.chateauvillandry.fr/restaurant/la-doulce-terrasse/
Gite restaurant L’Etape Gourmande de la Giraudière : www.letapegourmande.com
Bed and Breakfast Le Clos de l’Orchidée : www.leclosdelorchidee.com
Royal City of Loches
Hotel de France : www.hoteldefranceloches.com/
Hotel Restaurant Le George Sand : www.hotelrestaurant-georgesand.com/
Tearoom and restaurant Isabeau de Touraine salon de Thé – restaurant : www.isabeaudetouraine.com/
Château of Clos Lucé –Leonardo Da Vinci Park and the surrounding area
Bistrot Chez Bruno : www.bistrotchezbruno.com
Hotel Le Clos d’Amboise : www.leclosdamboise.com
Manoir Saint Thomas : www.manoir-saint-thomas.com
Hotel-Restaurant Le Choiseul : www.grandesetapes.fr/fr/Chateau-hotel-choiseul
Château de Pray : www.chateaudepray.fr
Château of Chenonceau and the surrounding area
Restaurant L’Orangerie du château : www.chenonceau.com/fr/services
Hotel Restaurant Le Bon Laboureur : www.bonlaboureur.com
Bed and breakfast La Bérangerie : www.laberangerie-chenonceaux.com/
Royal Château of Amboise and the surrounding area
Manoir Les Minimes : www.manoirlesminimes.com
Best Western Hôtel le Vinci Loire Valley : www.v inciloirevalley.com
Bed and Breakfast Régisserie de Chanteloup : www.regisseriedechanteloup.com
Bed and Breakfast Les Sentinières : www.chambre-hote-sentinieres.com
Art Hôtel : www.art-hotel-tours.com
Bed and Breakfast La Closerie Saint Vincent : www.chambres-hotes-amboise.fr
Regional Domain of Chaumont-sur-Loire and the surrounding area
Hotel restaurant Domaine Les Hauts De Loire : www.leshautsdechaumont.fr/
Hotel restaurant Hostellerie du château : www.hostellerie-du-chateau.com
Bed and breakfast La Maison du Pêcheur : www.chaumont-sur-loire.com
Bed and breakfast Les Douves : www.lesdouvesonzain.fr/
Town and the Royal Château of Blois and the surrounding area
Restaurant L’Orangerie du château : www.orangerie-du-chateau.fr
Restaurant Au rendez-vous des pêcheurs : www.rendezvousdespecheurs.com
Restaurant Assa : www.assarestaurant.fr
Hotel-Restaurant Côté Loire : www.coteloire.com
Bed and breakfast La Maison de Thomas : www.lamaisondethomas.fr
Bed and breakfast Demeure de la Cordelière : www.chambre-d-hotes-blois.com
Château of Cheverny and the surrounding area
Restaurant Golf de Cheverny La Rousselière : www.golf-cheverny.com
Hotel-Restaurant l’Auberge du Centre : www.auberge-du-centre.com
Bed and breakfast La Demalerie : www.chambresdhotes-cheverny.com
Hotel-Restaurant Manoir de Contres : www.manoirdecontres.com
Château of Chambord and the surrounding area
Hotel – Restaurant Le Grand Saint Michel : www.saintmichel-chambord.com
Hotel-Restaurant La Maison d’à Côté : www.lamaisondacote.fr
Bed and breakfast Château de la rue : www.chateaudelarue.com
Bed and breakfast Le Manoir de Clénord : www.clenord.com
Bed and breakfast Le Bonheur des Hôtes : http://lebonheurdeshotes.fr
Château of Valençay and the surrounding area
Hotel le Relais du Moulin : www.hotel-lerelaisdumoulin.com
Bed and breakfast Aux Portes du Château : www.chambresdhotes-valencay.fr
Hotel-Restaurant Les Jardins de Beauval, hotel*** : http://www.lesjardinsdebeauval.com/
Château of Sully-sur-Loire and the surrounding area
Restaurant Hostellerie du Grand Sully : http://www.grandsully.com/
Restaurant Le Grand Saint Benoît : www.hoteldulabrador.fr/
Hotel Burgevin : contact@hotelburgevin.com - www.hotelburgevin.com
Hotel La Closeraie : www.hotel-la-closeraie.com
Bed and breakfast le Moulin Saint Julien : www.moulinstjulien.com
Château of the Dukes of Brittany - Nantes
Radisson blu : www.radissonblu.com/hotel-nantes
Sozo Hôtel : www.sozohotel.fr
Château of Angers
Hotel SODAroom : www.sodaroom.fr
Château of Brissac
Bed and breakfast Demeure du Goupil : www.demeure-du-goupil.com
Restaurant La Table de la Bergerie : www.latable-bergerie.fr
Bed and breakfast Le Domaine de la Soucherie : www.domaine-de-la-soucherie.fr
The Cadre Noir and Château of Saumur
Hotel Demeure de la Vignole : www.demeure-vignole.com
Château of Verrières : www.chateau-verrieres.com
Dwelling cave gite : www.latrogloaplumes.fr
Château of Brézé
Bed and breakfast Farfadine & Troglos : www.farfadine.fr
Hotel le Relais du bien-être : www.relais-du-bien-etre.com
Restaurant la Grange à Dîme : www.grange-a-dime.com
Fontevraud Abbey
New Hotel de Fontevraud : www.hotel-fontevraud.com
Restaurant Le Plantagenêt : www.hotel-croixblanche.com/restaurant,plantagenet,saumur.html
Hotel La Marine de Loire : www.hotel-lamarinedeloire.com
27
28
Contacts
Press contacts :
Gladys Elia
Sandrine Freeman
+ 33 1 55 02 15 28
g.elia@open2europe.com
+ 33 1 55 02 14 69
s.freeman@open2europe.com
Contact
Centre Region
Contact
Press Office
presse@visaloire.com
Tel : +33 (0)2.38.79.95.00
Mobile : +33 (0)6.85.03.39.55
Virginie Priou
v.priou@agence-paysdelaloire.fr
Tel. : +33 2 40 89 89 87
Loire Valley Tourist Board
37 avenue de Paris
45000 ORLÉANS
Pays de la Loire Tourist Board
7 rue du Général de Bollardière - CS80221
44202 Nantes Cedex 02
www.loirevalleytourism.com

Untitled

Transcription

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