Castle of Ussé

The Château d'Ussé is one of the Loire Valley's most unexpected. This is one of the famous "Châteaux de la Loire," also known as "Sleeping Beauty Castle." It is only 30 kilometers from the Tours airport. It was originally built as a stronghold in the Middle Ages, but over time it evolved into a jewel of Renaissance architecture before becoming a magnificent residential home in the 17th and 18th centuries. The elegance of its architecture, rare furnishings, and the perfection of its gardens make it a national heritage showpiece.

The chapel, the first section of the right wing, and the middle section of the castle were all built in the 16th century under the direction of Charles D'Espinay and Lucrèce de Pons. The castle was turned into a residence, however, in the 17th century thanks to the addition of a charming pavilion created to commemorate the union of the owner's son and King Louis XIV's Controller-General of Finances, the Marquis de Valentinay, and the daughter of Maréchal de Vauban. The King's support allowed the château to be honored and elevated to the rank of marquisate. Le Nôtre's and Vauban's terraced French formal garden provided the finishing touches, transforming the château into a charming home.

Interior decoration, the addition of a neo-gothic gallery, and improvements to the inner eastern façade of the "Cour d'Honneur" continued throughout the 19th century. Chateaubriand frequently visited Ussé and gave his hosts the Lebanon cedars that can still be seen today. Le Château d'Ussé is still a private residence and the home of the Duke of Blacas and his family, who look after this enchanting place with great care.

Location: La Chapelle sur Loire, Central Loire Valley Region