Architecture

The entrance pavillon

The most striking part of the construction is the magnificent entrance pavilion from which visitors have a view of a finely-decorated symbolic keep. It is surrounded by a Venetian-style arcade, while at each angle stands a tower with a domed roof.

Valencay is the epitome of Renaissance architecture, a direct descendant of the Chateau de Chambord.  

The extensions in the 17th and 18th centuries

In the 17th and 18th centuries, several extensions were added to the Chateau, and in particular a new wing giving on to the formal courtyard, marking the advent of neo-classical architecture to the Loire valley.

The gardens

Valencay's grandeur also stems in part from the admirable garden setting, offering a mix of formal perfection in the French-style garden, and extensive natural parkland laid out as an English landscape garden roamed by deer and peacock.

Interiors

Valencay's interior is still alive with the memory of its most celebrated owner, Charles Maurice de Talleyrand, Napoleon's chief minister. Its magnificent state rooms and private apartments are sumptuously furnished in the Empire style, and its kitchens and pantries are still as they were in his time.

The King of Spain's chamber

The bedchamber occupied for six years by the future king Ferdinand VII of Spain is also decorated in the finest Empire style. The walls are papered with a celebrated grisaille design that depicting scenes from the life of Psyche.

The Music Room

The Music Room, like the Prince's private apartments, are steeped in memories of the glittering receptions Talleyrand organized at Valencay.

The Grand Salon

The Grand Salon, where Talleyrand received his many distinguished guests, contains many excellent items of Empire furniture. In its centre stands a large table on which the Final Act of the Congress of Vienna in 1815 is said to have been signed.

The kitchens and pantries are still in their original state. Talleyrand had them fitted with all the latest refinements (such as running water) so that his staff could prepare the banquets he ordered for his guests.
From May to September, every hour throughout the day, actors in period costume recreate the feverish preparations of the sumptuous dishes served to guests at Valencay.

In front of the Chateau, the magnificent formal gardens in the French style has been recently restored to its original glory. Its rectangular tracery of walks is punctuated by ornamental ponds and flower beds that are replanted each year.

The large ornemental pond

A large ornamental pond surrounded by flower beds stands in the centre of Valencay's formal courtyard, overlooking the Duchess's garden.

The duchess's garden

The charming duchess's garden, with its flower beds and sculptures, offers fine views of the Nahon valley.

Fun Day Out

The Great Maze of Napoleon

In the castle grounds, children and adults alike can embark on an exciting adventure in the Great Maze, the largest maze game in France.

After collecting your welcome booklet at reception, you enter a maze with walls 2 metres high. To reach the Emperor’s Tower and find your way out, you must solve the puzzles (tailored to the age of participants) to open the 7 doors and cross the 3 worlds: the land of gardens, the land of the senses and the land of mirrors. Three hidden clues and jokers will help you in your quest. Packed with educational, fun and interactive entertainment, the maze is open throughout the day.

The children's castle

To recover from their adventures, young visitors aged 6 to 12 can take time out in the new play area, built like a castle, alongside the maze. All this makes Chateau de Valencay a magical setting for an unforgettable day out for all the family.

Music in the garden

Visitors are greeted by the sound of music that will transport them back in time to the merry, enchanting atmosphere of a Talleyrand reception. Experience a true musical journey: to the soothing strains of the great composers of the 17th century, visitors can discover the French gardens, circular gardens, the courtyard and the Duchess's garden.