Château de la Turmelière

The castle sits within a 45-hectare park on the slopes above the Loire River, combining historic structures with modern facilities. The grounds feature reception halls, guest rooms distributed across multiple buildings, and landscaped gardens that connect the different sections.

The original structure dates from the 13th century and underwent major restoration in the 15th century by Perceval Chabot de Chantemerle. The current form was established in 1887, marking the final significant transformation of the property.

Poet Joachim du Bellay spent his childhood here, and the Loire landscapes deeply influenced the themes he would later explore in his writing. His connection to the place remains visible in how locals reference his literary legacy.

The grounds are easy to walk around, with clear paths connecting the different sections of the property. A good weather day works best for exploring both the indoor spaces and the outdoor gardens at a comfortable pace.

Medieval ruins lie beneath the 19th-century castle, including old moats and a dovecote that received official recognition as a historical monument in 1941. These hidden layers tell the story of the site across multiple time periods.