Chateau Du Lude

Overview Of Chateau Du Lude

Chateau du Lude is a beautiful and historic castle located in the Loire Valley in France. Built in the 10th century, the castle was originally a fortress to protect the region from invaders. Over time, the castle was expanded and renovated into a grand estate that blends Renaissance and Classical architecture.


The castle features stunning gardens, including a French formal garden, an English garden, and a vegetable garden. Visitors can take a stroll through the gardens, admiring the perfectly manicured lawns, fountains, and topiaries. The castle also has an impressive collection of antique furniture, tapestries, and artwork. Visitors can tour the interior of the castle, admiring the grand ballroom, dining room, and bedrooms.


One of the highlights of the castle is the 15th-century keep, which stands at 25 meters tall and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb to the top of the keep and take in the panoramic views. The castle also has a collection of vintage cars on display, including a 1911 Renault and a 1937 Delahaye.


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History Of Chateau Du Lude

  • The Chateau du Lude dates back to the 10th century, when a fortress was built on the site to defend the region against the Vikings.
  • In the 15th and 16th centuries, the fortress was transformed into a chateau with the addition of Renaissance architecture.
  • The chateau was purchased by the Baron Jean du Plessis in the 18th century, who made significant changes to the property and transformed it into a luxurious residence.
  • During the French Revolution, the chateau was confiscated by the government and used as a prison and a hospital.
  • In the 19th century, the chateau was restored to its former glory by the Marquis de Vibraye, who added a formal French garden and a new wing to the building.
  • The chateau has remained in the de Vibraye family ever since, and is currently owned by Count Louis-Jean de Nicolay and his wife, Princess Antonia of Orleans-Braganza.

Things To See At Chateau Du Lude

Architecture

The Chateau du Lude is a masterpiece of architectural design. The main building is a combination of different architectural styles, including Renaissance and Gothic, that blend seamlessly to create a unique structure. The castle has numerous towers, turrets, and a moat, which gives it a fairytale-like appearance.

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Gardens

The gardens of the Chateau du Lude are a major attraction. They have been meticulously designed and maintained to offer visitors a peaceful and serene environment. The gardens feature a mix of French and English garden styles and are adorned with statues, fountains, and a water garden.

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Interiors

The interiors of the Chateau du Lude are equally impressive. They are rich in history and offer visitors a glimpse into the life of the former inhabitants of the castle. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, the Chapel, the Kitchen, the Drawing Room, and other rooms that have been decorated with period furnishings.

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Vineyards

The Chateau du Lude has a vineyard that produces high-quality wines. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and learn about the wine-making process, taste the wines, and purchase some to take home.

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Events

The Chateau du Lude hosts numerous events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and cultural events. The castle is also available for private events, such as weddings and receptions, and offers a stunning backdrop for any occasion.

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Know Before You Go Chateau Du Lude

How To Reach:

  • By Train: The nearest train station to the Chateau du Lude is La Fleche, which is approximately 8 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the castle.
  • By Bus: There are several bus services available from Angers and Le Mans to La Fleche. From La Fleche, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the Chateau du Lude.
  • By Air: The nearest airport to the Chateau du Lude is the Angers-Loire Airport, which is approximately 50 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the castle.
  • By Bicycle: The Loire Valley is known for its cycling routes, and there are several cycling routes that pass by the Chateau du Lude. You can rent a bicycle in nearby towns like La Fleche and cycle to the castle.


Best Time To Visit - The best time to visit Chateau du Lude is during the summer months of June to September when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is also when the gardens and grounds of the castle are in full bloom and open for visitors to explore. The castle itself is open year-round, but some areas may be closed during the winter months.


If you're planning to attend any of the events hosted at the Chateau, such as the summer music festival or the Christmas market, be sure to check the event schedule and plan your visit accordingly.


Keep in mind that peak tourist season is during July and August, so the castle and surrounding areas may be more crowded during this time. If you prefer a quieter visit, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or October when the crowds are thinner but the weather is still mild.

FAQs For Chateau Du Lude

What are the opening hours of Chateau du Lude?

The opening hours of Chateau du Lude vary depending on the season. From April to September, the castle is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, and from October to March, it is open on weekends and public holidays from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Are there guided tours available at Chateau du Lude?

Yes, guided tours are available at Chateau du Lude. The tours are offered in both French and English and are included in the price of admission.

Is the castle wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the castle is wheelchair accessible. However, some areas of the castle may be difficult to navigate due to the historic nature of the building.

Can I take photos inside the castle?

Photography is allowed inside the castle, but the use of flash or tripod is not permitted.

Can I bring my pet to Chateau du Lude?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed inside the castle or the gardens, with the exception of service animals. However, there are shaded areas outside the castle where pets can wait while their owners explore the castle.

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