Weekend at the Château de Montsoreau to discover contemporary art

Domaine du Golf - Saumur (49)

Just a stone’s throw from Fontevraud Abbey and the Domaine du Golf de Saumur, discover all the secrets of the Château de Montsoreau!

Fun holidays at the confluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers!

Built in 1450 by Jean II de Chambes, a close adviser to King Charles VII on the bed of the Loire, the Château de Montsoreau is the only château on the Loire in this configuration.

Its architecture, half fortress, half royal residence, makes this castle an exceptional site that you will enjoy discovering during your holidays or during a weekend excursion near Saumur and Fontevraud. Marked by the passage of many historical figures such as Mary Stuart, Anne of Brittany and François I, it is now renowned for its avant-garde architecture, inspired by the artists of Rodin, Flaubert and Alexandre Dumas.

Located in the former kitchens of the château, the Cave à Manger Jean 2 offers the whole family, young and old alike, slates of local, organic and artisanal products, accompanied by natural wines. From the cellars to the top of the towers, enjoy a unique group experience at the restaurant of the Château de Montsoreau, with chalets, gîtes and flats for rent not far from this royal dwelling.

A stay to discover contemporary art in Maine et Loire

Transformed into a museum of contemporary art and inaugurated in April 2016, parents can wander freely through this château which offers, two hours from Paris in the Loire Valley, a journey through the world’s most important collection of Art & Langage works, the origin of Conceptual Art. With friends or family, come and admire the 15 fireplaces, the staircase with its palm tree vault and the terraces for the summer days which dominate the river from the top of their 35 metres.

Ideally located at the foot of the Loire, the Château de Montsoreau allows you to combine a visit to the monument with a number of activities: water sports on the Loire (canoeing, water skiing, etc.), hot air ballooning and other visits to the confluence of the Vienne and Loire rivers. Located on the Loire by bike circuit, the castle offers cyclists technical assistance, furniture to park their bikes and lockers…not to be missed if you are exploring the Loire valley near Tours.

Cheap shows are organised during the stay in one of the most beautiful villages in France: “Les Imaginaires de Loire” and “Lumières sur l’histoire du château” (Lights on the history of the castle), two sound and light shows to discover the history of the castle in a playful and original way.

For children, a section dedicated to young people offers games and books to help them learn about art and history. Opposite the river in the King’s dwelling, take part with your children in the castle’s activities: costumed and animated family visits, boat trips, fashion shows, guided tours, etc. End your visit with a wine tasting and sale of Saumur wines in the castle cellar.