Chateau de Talmont
Chateau de Talmont
14 Members like this place
About Chateau de Talmont
Add to favoritesRichard the Lionheart's Fortress Once overlooking the ocean, Talmont Castle is one of the most illustrious examples of medieval military architecture in the Vendée region. This former fortress of the Dukes of Aquitaine, whose origins date back to the 11th century, was the pleasure palace and favorite stronghold of Richard the Lionheart. Today, its imposing remains, including a majestic keep and crenellated curtain walls, transport visitors back to the time of knights and troubadours. It is a major Vendée heritage site that brilliantly combines romantic ruins with lively historical reenactments. Far from being a static monument, the castle comes alive throughout the year, offering an immersive experience for young and old alike. As you explore the various rooms and the outer bailey, you will discover the evolution of defense techniques and the daily life of a lordly court. Falconry displays, demonstrations of war machines, and medieval workshops transform the visit into a true human adventure. It's an unmissable stop on any tourist itinerary in the Pays de la Loire region, located just minutes from the beaches of Les Sables-d'Olonne.
Tip for an even more exceptional visit.
To fully enjoy the atmosphere, I recommend checking the schedule of jousting and falconry shows before your visit. These performances are the highlight of the tour and usually take place in the castle's inner courtyard; arrive 20 minutes early to secure a front-row seat. If you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the castle's evening events: the illuminated ruins and torchlit displays lend the site a uniquely mysterious and magical dimension. Expert tip: Take advantage of the themed guided tours, often led by guides in period costume, to discover the fortress's best-kept secrets, such as its hidden passages or anecdotes about the eventful life of Richard the Lionheart. For photographers, the best vantage point is outside, near the moat, at sunset, when the limestone takes on golden hues. Finally, don't forget to take a stroll through the medieval town of Talmont-Saint-Hilaire which surrounds the castle to complete your immersion.
The stories of your visits (en-US)
Submit your review.Amy31
2023-08-23"Epic. Richard the Lionheart's Fortress Once overlooking the ocean, Talmont Castle is one of the most illustrious examples of medieval mi... Tip: To fully enjoy the atmosphere, I recommend checking the schedule of jousting and falconry shows before your visit. These performances are the highlight of the tour and usually take place in the castle's inner courtyard; arrive 20 minutes early to secure a front-row seat. If you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the castle's evening events: the illu"
David63
2023-06-05"A peaceful escape. Richard the Lionheart's Fortress Once overlooking the ocean, Talmont Castle is one of the most illustrious examples of medieval mi... Tip: To fully enjoy the atmosphere, I recommend checking the schedule of jousting and falconry shows before your visit. These performances are the highlight of the tour and usually take place in the castle's inner courtyard; arrive 20 minutes early to secure a front-row seat. If you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the castle's evening eve"
Maria27
2023-05-27"Simply the best. "
MAISON DES AMBASSADEURS
CHATEAU DE MAUBREUIL
HOTEL BARRIERE LE ROYAL LA BAULE
HOTEL LE DOMAINE DE LA BRETESCHE
HOTAL CHAIS MONNET & SPA
MIRAMAR LA CIGALE
CHATEAU DU CLOS DE LA RIBAUDIERE
DOMAINE DU LIZIEC - MGALLERY COLLECTION