CHÂTEAU DU LUDE

Château du Lude and its gardens are located in the southern Sarthe region between Tours and Angers. A testament to French architecture from the Middle Ages to the ^19th century, Château du Lude is one of the last great châteaux of the Loire to have been inhabited by a family for 260 years. With its four facades, each in a different style, it's a must-see on any tour of the great châteaux of the Loire. Its history dates back to the ^10th century, when it was first a feudal motte, then a vast fortress built on the banks of the Loir. From the ^12th to the ^15th century, construction continued on the château, with its wide dry moat, vaulted underground passageways and defensive spur. In the late ^15th century, Italian Renaissance-style modifications were made to the south facade, with mullioned windows and large sculpted medallions. The ^17th century saw the introduction of the French Renaissance style, with its sobriety and symmetry. The main courtyard is a perfect illustration. The château's east wing, a pure example of neo-classicism, was built on the eve of the French Revolution. At Le Lude, since the recent restoration work, the daily life of yesteryear can be seen on five floors, including the linen room, kitchens, chapel and staff apartments. With its regular flowerbeds and English-style park, this remarkable estate overlooks the Loir valley. During your visit, you'll discover not only the richly decorated and furnished interiors, but also the superb gardens, classified as a Remarkable Garden: Chinese roses, topiaries, labyrinths and botanical collections, as well as a century-old organic vegetable garden. Not to be missed in late spring: the annual Gardeners' Festival, held on the first weekend of June. It's an opportunity to get away from it all, combining a breath of fresh air with historical discovery in a magnificent setting.

Visit and have fun at Château du Lude! An escape game awaits you in the outbuildings: two rooms are open to mystery-solving. Children aged 11 and over, accompanied by an adult, can also take part in the investigation. In the gardens, the Prisoner Game awaits you: for 1h30, you'll have to investigate to free the players. Disguises are available for youngsters to slip into the shoes of a princess or a knight, and two discovery booklets will lead them and Timoléo to discover the castle and its bestiary. The treasure hunt is open to children on Sundays during the summer, providing a fun way to discover the gardens.