Château de Montsoreau
The only castle built directly in the bed of the Loire; now a contemporary art museum, and famous thanks to Alexandre Dumas's novel.
Montsoreau Castle, built in the 15th century, is the only castle in the Loire Valley built directly in the riverbed. It became known far and wide through Alexandre Dumas's novel 'La Dame de Monsoreau.' The castle now houses a contemporary art museum with a large collection of works by the conceptual art group Art & Language, creating an interesting contrast with the ancient architecture. The village of Montsoreau is listed among 'The Most Beautiful Villages in France,' and its surroundings have many white limestone caves and wine cellars. Admission is about €14. The castle is about 12 km from Saumur and can be combined with a visit to Candes-Saint-Martin.
Opening hours
About 10:00–19:00 (shorter hours in winter)
Nearby sights
- Candes-Saint-Martin
- Turquant Troglodyte Village
- Fontevraud Abbey
- Château de Brézé
- Musée des Blindés (Tank Museum)
- Château de Saumur
- Notre-Dame de Nantilly
- Saumur Old Town & Place Saint-Pierre