Castle of Montreuil-Bellay

Overview Of Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay

Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay is a stunning castle located in the picturesque town of Montreuil-Bellay in the Loire Valley of France. The castle is known for its unique architecture and rich history, which dates back to the 11th century. The castle is situated on the banks of the Thouet River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The castle has been meticulously restored and is now open to visitors who want to explore its history and marvel at its beauty.


The castle features a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and classical, which are a testament to the various periods of history it has lived through. The castle's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and stone masonry, while the interior features stunning vaulted ceilings, antique furnishings, and ornate decorations. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms, including the great hall, the chapel, the guard room, and the kitchens. They can also stroll through the castle's beautiful gardens, which feature manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and a maze. The castle also houses a museum that showcases the history of the castle and the town of Montreuil-Bellay.


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History Of Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay

  • The castle was built in the 11th century by the Count of Anjou, Fulk Nerra.
  • The castle was seized by King Philip II of France in the 12th century and was later owned by the powerful House of Plantagenet.
  • During the Hundred Years' War, the castle was captured by the English and was used as a military stronghold until the French regained control in 1443.
  • In the 16th century, the castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style and became a residence for the nobility.
  • During the French Revolution, the castle was seized and sold as a national asset.
  • The castle was purchased by the town of Montreuil-Bellay in 1822 and was restored in the 19th and 20th centuries.

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Things To See At Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay

The Castle

The castle is a beautiful example of the Renaissance architecture of the Loire Valley. The castle has been immaculately preserved and restored, and visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the history of the castle and its previous owners.

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The Gardens

The castle is surrounded by stunning gardens, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The gardens were designed in the French classical style and include a maze, a vegetable garden, an orchard, and a rose garden.

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The Wine

The castle is located in the heart of the Loire Valley wine region, and visitors can taste some of the region's best wines at the castle's wine cellar. The castle offers guided tours of the wine cellar, and visitors can learn about the winemaking process and taste some of the castle's finest wines.

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The Village

The castle is located in the charming village of Montreuil-Bellay, which is known for its medieval architecture and winding streets. Visitors can explore the village and visit the local shops and restaurants to get a taste of the local culture.

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The River

The castle is located on the banks of the Thouet River, and visitors can take a leisurely boat ride to see the castle from a different perspective. The river is also a popular spot for fishing and canoeing, and visitors can rent equipment to enjoy these activities.

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Know Before You Go Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay

How To Reach

  • By Car: The easiest way to reach Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay is by car. The castle is located about 50 km from the city of Angers and 85 km from Tours. There is ample parking available near the castle.
  • By Train: The nearest train station to Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay is in Saumur, which is about 15 km away. From Saumur, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the castle.
  • By Bus: There are several bus services that run from nearby towns to Montreuil-Bellay. The castle is located a short walk from the bus station in the town center.
  • By Bicycle: The Loire Valley is a popular cycling destination, and there are several bike routes that pass through Montreuil-Bellay. You can rent a bike in nearby towns and cycle to the castle, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.


Best Time To Visit - The best time to visit Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to explore the castle's beautiful gardens and outdoor areas. Additionally, many of the events and activities held at the castle take place during these months, such as the summer concert series and the annual Medieval Festival.


If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather, visiting during the fall months of October and November can also be a good option. The autumn foliage in the castle's gardens and surrounding vineyards can be particularly beautiful during this time.


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FAQs For Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay

What are the opening hours of Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay?

The opening hours of Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay vary depending on the season. Typically, it is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from April to September and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm from October to March. However, it is best to check the official website for up-to-date opening hours.

Is there an entrance fee for Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay. The fee varies depending on the type of visit and age of the visitor. It is best to check the official website for the latest pricing information.

Is it possible to take a guided tour of Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay?

Yes, guided tours are available at Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay. Visitors can choose between a traditional guided tour or an audio-guided tour, which is available in several languages.

Is Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay is wheelchair accessible. However, visitors with mobility issues may find some areas of the castle difficult to access due to the historic nature of the building.

Can visitors take photographs inside Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photographs inside Chateau de Montreuil-Bellay. However, the use of flash photography is prohibited.

What are the other popular castles which you can see in Loire Valley?

The following are the best castles which you can see in Loire Valley:

  1. Château de Chaumont
  2. Château de Blois
  3. Chateau de Villandry
  4. Chateau Azay-Le-Rideau
  5. Chateau de Loches
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