Château du Lude

A château with remarkable gardens, the Château du Lude stands on the banks of the Loir, in the Sarthe, among the northernmost of the Loire châteaux. A former medieval fortress turned into a pleasure residence by the Daillon family from 1457 onwards, it reflects four centuries of French architecture.

Its Francis I façade, completed between 1520 and 1530, sits alongside an 18th-century Classical wing and a neo-Gothic façade facing the town. The oratory houses a 16th-century painted cabinet by the school of Raphael, and the kitchens are located in the basement. The park and gardens, covering six hectares, with a great terrace overlooking the Loir, hold the « Jardin remarquable » (Remarkable Garden) label.

For groups : Groups are welcome all year round, from 15 people for the classic visit: about one hour of guided tour of the house, followed by an hour of self-guided visit of the gardens and outbuildings. Other options add the private rooms on the first floor and a refreshment, or a prestige tour led by the Countess de Nicolaÿ, with a guided tour of the gardens and a cocktail; there is also an option for car rallies.

Château du Lude – Rue Jehan Daillon, 72800 Le Lude

On request – preferential group rate (please contact us)