Chateau de Rivau
Chateau de Rivau
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About Chateau de Rivau
Add to favoritesThe Fairytale Castle in Touraine Located in Lémeré, in the heart of the Loire Valley, the Château du Rivau is a unique destination that seems straight out of a picture book. This former medieval fortress, linked to the story of Joan of Arc who came here to find warhorses in 1429, surprises with its hybrid architecture: proud drawbridges and machicolations protecting an elegant Renaissance residence. This privately owned castle, lovingly restored, is now famous for its 15 listed remarkable gardens, where contemporary art meets botany in a dreamlike and enchanting atmosphere. The castle's interior is equally captivating, blending period furniture with surprising contemporary art exhibitions. Each room tells a story, often linked to themes of fantasy or nature. But it's outside that the magic truly happens: between the "Gargantua's Vegetable Garden," the "Running Forest," and "Alice's Labyrinth," the estate invites you on a fantastical stroll. It's an essential part of Indre-et-Loire's heritage, offering a poetic and playful alternative to the more traditional Loire Valley châteaux.
Tip for an even more exceptional visit.
To fully appreciate the atmosphere of Rivau, I recommend allowing at least three hours for your visit. The gardens change dramatically throughout the year; in February, the very structure of the gardens and the monumental sculptures (such as the giant legs or the oversized watering can) take on a fascinating sculptural dimension. If you are visiting with children, you'll be pleased to know that the château is particularly welcoming to them: activity booklets and costumes are often available to transform the visit into a true chivalric adventure. Expert tip: Don't miss lunch or afternoon tea at "La Table des Fées," the château's restaurant. The produce comes directly from the kitchen garden, and flowers from the garden often grace the plates. For photographers, the best vantage point is at the entrance to the orchard, where you can capture the silhouette of the château reflected in the dry moat. Finally, if you are a rose lover, note that Rivau has one of the richest collections of fragrant roses in the world (more than 450 varieties), an unmissable event from May onwards.
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