Stand beneath colossal towers and admire the many meticulous arches and portals of Château de Valençay. View fountains and statues hidden among lush gardens and step inside to discover lavish ornaments and rare period furniture.
Constructed in 1540 by Robert d'Estampes, this château has been a home to several important figures. The infamous Scottish banker John Law lived here for several years at the start of the 18th century. Its most famous owner, however, was Prince de Talleyrand who served as foreign minister to Napoleon before he escaped to North America during the French Revolution.
Start your visit with a stroll through the château’s idyllic gardens. Here you will see various ornamental hedgerows and beds of bright orchids, roses and lilies. The stone figures of deer and bears stand silently on pedestals while the soft sound of trickling water features fills the air.
The château itself is remarkable in its size and structure with imposing rounded twin towers propping up either end. Notice the rows of squared windows and Renaissance motifs running toward the steep central tower that features reaching spires and tall chimneys.
With more than 100 rooms, the castle offers plenty to see. Long wooded hallways are adorned with paintings and tapestries. Marvel at exquisite embroidered chairs and stalls, many of which sit on thick Egyptian rugs.
Continue around the house to the neoclassical west wing, which was added in the 17th century. One museum here is dedicated to Talleyrand, with a collection of his paintings and outfits, while another section holds an exhibit of motor vehicles through history. View rare, vintage racers as well as a modern formula one car.
Château de Valençay is a 5-minute walk west of Valençay village in the province of Berry. There is a small admission fee to visit the castle and gardens, which are open all week.
