Pagoda of Chanteloup, Chinese-style tower in Loire Valley, France
The Pagoda of Chanteloup is a Chinese-style tower in the Loire Valley that rises 44 meters with seven levels connected by an internal staircase of 149 steps. A viewing platform at the top overlooks the valley and surrounding landscape.
The tower was built in 1775 by the Duke of Choiseul after his exile from the court of Louis XV as part of renovating his estate. The entire castle was later demolished in 1823, leaving only this structure standing.
The tower blends French and Chinese design, reflecting 18th-century European fascination with oriental styles. This mix of two architectural traditions shaped how visitors experienced the estate and its gardens.
You can climb all seven levels, with stairs leading to the viewing platform at the top. From there, you get views of Amboise Castle and the wide Loire landscape all around.
The tower is the only remaining part of the former Château de Chanteloup, which was dismantled in 1823 by merchants who wanted its materials for building. It now stands alone as a reminder of the vanished castle.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
