Chaumont Castle - Château de Chaumont

Construction began on the Chateau de Chaumont in 1466 under the direction of Charles d'Amboise, and was continued by his two sons (both named Charles!). The Chateau was built on the site of a former fort that was destroyed by Louis XI. Catherine de Médici bought Chaumont when her husband Henri II died in 1559. She had probably already been living there for some time, while the King found it more pleasant to "visit" and lodge at Diane de Poitiers' (more than twenty years younger he was, oh la la!) residence at the Chateau of Chenonceau. Later on, Catherine de Medici forced Diane de Poitiers to trade chateaux.

A few prestigious landlords

Thomas Becket owned the Chateau before he was murdered, as did Pierre d'Amboise and his children with brilliant destinies. Mme de Staël was exiled there by Napoleon, and Mary Say, a rich heiress, lost everything there.

Access to the chateau: on foot by taking the ramp which crosses through the park. Gorgeous cedars! Easy parking on the street.

From the terrace of the chateau, there is a magnificent view of the Loire, the Escures levee, and the small town of Onzains on the other side of the river. Inside the Chateau, you'll admire the beautiful series of tapestries from the end of the 16th century on the theme of days and planets, and the remarkable majolica tiling (17th century).
The stables, which are located a few hundred yards behind the trees, are worth the walk through the woods. They're like veritable horse palaces, having been entirely renovated in 1877 by Prince De Broglie... You will find snack bars and restaurants there as well.

Open year round (except for holidays)

Visit the chateau on your own or with a guide. The stables require a guided tour.

Entrance to the park is free.

Phone: 02 54 51 26 26

From mid-June to mid-October the farm at the Chateau presents
The International Gardens Festival.

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