Relaxation at the Château de l’Islette A romantic day out at the Château de l'Islette

Set off to explore the Château de l’Islette in Azay-le-Rideau, where the tranquil waters of the Indre encircle a Renaissance gem built of tuffeau stone. In this romantic haven, once the setting for the passionate love affair between Rodin and Camille Claudel, every stone tells a story, every reflection in the water whispers a secret. From authentic tours of the living quarters to moments of relaxation in the gardens, immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of a château that is very much alive in the 21st century.

A tour of the Château de l'Islette Special moments to share

Whilst a brochure and a visitor app are available to help you on your self-guided tour, the guided tour offered in July and August will enhance your exploration of the château and its hidden treasures. Don’t miss the musical and culinary evenings organised in the grounds either, for an even more memorable experience; you’ll share unique moments with your loved ones in a warm and intimate atmosphere.

The outdoor escape game is also a firm favourite at the Château de l’Islette (particularly with teenagers), offering an hour of fun as you rack your brains and step into the shoes of a detective: who killed one of the workers, just as the work to fill in the moat is drawing to a close? And why?!

At the same time, the Château de l’Islette is an irresistible invitation to relax and daydream. Don’t resist the temptation to slip into a deckchair by the banks of the Indre. Food lovers can enjoy an ice cream bought from the shop.

Escape game at the Château de l'Islette

For families, knight and princess costumes will help children get into the spirit of the place, resulting in some lovely photos. Activity booklets are also available for 6–9-year-olds and 10–12-year-olds.

Family visit

An enchanted interlude in the heart of Touraine

The park invites you to relax beneath its centuries-old trees. Why not settle down here for apicnic in this utterly idyllic setting? If you haven’t brought anything with you, don’t worry: in the old mill, you’ll find bread, terrines, fish rillettes (from Romain Gadais and Ambroise Voreux, amongst others) and other spreads on offer, not to mention pressed pears and even honey from the château’s hives. Nicolas Paget ’s organic wines are also available to accompany your meal.

Then it’s time for a nap: whether in one of the deckchairs or on the lush grass, savour the moment. Children will find plenty to keep them occupied, particularly with the farm animals (grey Touraine rabbits, Geline hens, geese, sheep, a donkey, a mule, a pony, and more). And why not a game of Mölkkyor chess?! A selection of wooden games is available to borrow from the shop.

Just like in the 19th century, why not try your hand at rowing by hiring one of the rowing boats available? It’ll give you a bit of exercise, but above all, it’ll be great fun!

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Entertainment which delight the senses

Let the magic of the festivities take hold! Throughout the summer months, the owners organise exceptional evenings under the stars. At dusk, pretty lights adorn the façade whilst the sounds of concerts ( jazz, pop-rock, etc.) fill the air.

Autumn brings its own share of surprises with aHalloween treasure hunt, followed by baking workshops where young and old alike make gingerbread biscuits. In winter, the magic of Christmas transforms the house into an enchanted setting, where mischievous elves hide their secrets in the snow-covered grounds. And before long, spring will return, bringing with it the plant festival and various exhibitions.

The programme

The Living Castle of the Michaud family

Another distinctive feature of the Château de l’Islette is that the Michaud family, who own the property, live there for part of the year. Whilst some rooms in the château evoke bygone centuries, other features are far more contemporary, illustrating just how a château can span the ages!

Meet the Michaud family, who welcome you to their Renaissance residence with a decidedly modern approach. The tastefully furnished drawing rooms harmoniously blend period furniture with contemporary comfort. In the library, antique books sit alongside modern novels, whilst the kitchen, with its historic charm, is equipped with appliances very much of our time.

In a nutshell at the Château de l’Islette

A castle steeped in romance and history

Discover Rodin and Claudel’s haven of love – a place where past and present coexist in harmony.

A peaceful and convivial day

Have a picnic, go canoeing on the Indre, or relax in the gardens in the company of some charming animals.

Magical events for every season

Jazz evenings, storytelling, treasure hunts and Christmas festivities will immerse you in a unique atmosphere.

The romantic castle by Auguste Rodin, by Camille Claudel…

Rodin and Claudel: an artistic passion

The magic of the place took hold as early as 1890, when Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel chose the Château de l’Islette as a refuge for their passionate love. In the Grande Salle, bathed in the light of the River Indre, Rodin sculpted his famous Balzac whilst Camille brought La Petite Châtelaine to life, using Marguerite Boyer, the owners’ granddaughter, as her model. Their works took shape in step with the changing seasons, over the course of three consecutive summers.