Villandry Castle

The Château de Villandry is the last of the great Renaissance châteaux built in the Loire Valley, completed in the early 16th century. Though the château itself is a refined example of Renaissance architecture, it is the surrounding gardens that have earned it worldwide admiration. With its harmonious proportions and understated elegance, the château serves as a fitting centrepiece to one of the most stunning formal gardens in Europe.

Painstakingly restored in the early 20th century by Spanish doctor Joachim Carvallo, the gardens reflect Renaissance ideals of order, geometry, and symbolism. Visitors can wander through the iconic decorative kitchen garden, the tranquil water garden, and the intricate ornamental flower beds, each arranged in precise patterns that change with the seasons. A labyrinth, shaded alleys, and suspended terraces offer a layered experience of beauty and contemplation.

Inside, the château reveals finely furnished rooms, period decor, and personal artifacts that trace the story of its restoration and the family legacy behind it. Every corner echoes a commitment to preserving French heritage. A visit to Villandry is not only a journey into architectural elegance but also a celebration of horticultural artistry, where history, nature, and human vision converge in perfect harmony.