Château de Bontin, Historical castle in Les Ormes, France
Château de Bontin is a castle from the late 1500s surrounded by rectangular moats with steep-pitched roofs and large timber beams visible throughout. The buildings show construction from different periods, revealing how the property expanded and evolved over time.
The castle began in the late 1500s and underwent major renovation in the 1600s when it became the residence of Sully, minister to King Henry IV. These changes reflect how the property was adapted to serve the needs of high-ranking officials.
The grounds show the hand of André Le Nôtre in their layout, with hornbeam hedges framing ordered pathways and geometric patterns across the land. Visitors can see how this classical French garden design complements the Renaissance castle.
The property is open for guided visits during summer months and can be explored on foot. Wear sturdy shoes and set aside enough time to properly see both the buildings and the garden areas.
The property keeps its original moat system largely unchanged, which is uncommon today. Several outbuildings from the Louis XIV era are also classified, displaying typical features from the 1600s.
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