Unusual Loire castles

When you hear the word “Loire Valley Châteaux”, what comes to mind? Azay, Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry, Langeais, Chinon, and so many others. But are you ready to discover the secrets of Touraine’s more confidential châteaux? Here, you can immerse yourself in lesser-known, more intimate places, far from the crowds, where every stone whispers forgotten stories. Follow the guide for an unforgettable journey, where experience comes first.

Secret castles must-sees in Touraine

Château de Civray: between mystery and romance

The Château de Civray, nestled on the banks of the Loire, offers a privileged experience off the beaten track. Built in the heart of a forest, it’s the ideal place for an unusual overnight stay in Touraine. An evening stroll through the romantic lantern-lit gardens will plunge you into a magical atmosphere where only the sounds of nature will keep you company. Feel like you’re all alone in the world!

Fortress of Montbazon: a plunge into the heart of the Middle Ages

How about total immersion in the shoes of a medieval knight? The fortress of Montbazon invites you to relive the dark hours of medieval Touraine, with workshops in ancient crafts and live shows. For an unusual activity, take part in making your own sword at the castle’s traditional forge. A weekend here will literally transport you to another era.

Château de Jallanges: mysteries of the Renaissance

Located in the vineyards, the Château de Jallanges, built under Louis XI, captivates visitors with its legends and mysterious gardens. There are whispers of a secret passage to an ancient underground chapel… A stroll through the boxwood mazes or a visit in autumn, when the golden vineyards surround the château, promises a unique Touraine experience.

Domaine de Candé in Monts: secrets of a royal wedding

The Domaine de Candé, in Monts, holds the secrets of the historic wedding of Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson. With its Art Deco interiors and period technological innovations – radios, domestic appliances and modern bathrooms – this château offers an unusual visit to Touraine. Wander through its royal rooms and discover a place where history takes on a personal and fascinating dimension.

Unusual walks and activities at the Châteaux de la Loire

Hiking on the Loire à Vélo and GR3

between nature and heritage

To explore the region’s hidden châteaux, there’s nothing better than the Loire à Vélo or the Gr3 long-distance hiking trail. These routes give you the freedom to stroll between the valleys and discover these exceptional places without rushing. Imagine passing through medieval villages, where every turn hides a small Touraine castle, a manor house or an old noble building, each with its own history.

Private cruises on the Loire

See the Châteaux from the water

Another original way to discover the châteaux is to admire them from the Loire itself! Private cruises allow you to sail along the water, for a stroll past hidden manor houses and ancient fortifications. Observe the stones gilded by the setting sun and let the charm work, for an exclusive Touraine experience. Don’t delay!

Secrets of History Little-known castles and anecdotes

Château de Bridoré

When history flirts with mystery

The Château de Bridoré is a rare gem for mystery lovers. Built during the medieval wars, it hides underground galleries and secret passages. Legend has it that the lords hid a treasure there… Dare you set off in search of it, armed only with a torch and a guide full of historical anecdotes? An adventure to thrill young and old alike.

Château de Gizeux

The art of medieval frescoes

The château de Gizeux is a living museum of the 16th century. Here, be amazed by the medieval frescoes, restored to reveal all their splendour. These works, mysteriously untouched by time, transport you into the artistic world of the period and offer a rare plunge into the pictorial art of the lords of Touraine.

Château de la Guerche

Medieval fortress

The Château de la Guerche, with its towers and ramparts, is a veritable medieval fortress on the banks of the Creuse. Built to defend the region, the guides will take you back to the time of the knights. The architecture is partly “defensive”, the castle being located on the border between two eras: those of the Capetians and the Plantagenets! Wander through the secret passages and embark on a night-time lantern-lit tour, where every nook and cranny reveals a fragment of the past.

This overview would not be complete without the châteaux of Marcilly-sur-Maulne, château de Civray-de-Touraine, Champchevrier, des Brétignolles, Bridoré or Fontenay. Don’t hesitate to browse our other article devoted to “charming châteaux”, which may also inspire you to make other visits to intersperse between those of the most famous Loire castles.

©Chateau de Marcilly|ADT Tourisme Jean-Christophe COUTAND

A Touraine revealed through secrets

Unusual Touraine is a destination of choice for anyone seeking authenticity and uniqueness. From castle to castle, each experience is unique, each historical anecdote fascinating. So, are you ready to unlock the secrets of Touraine? Let yourself be enchanted by these little-known treasures, far from the crowds, on a journey where every diversions holds a surprise in store.

Hosting An unusual night in a castle

Château de La Corroirie A sanctuary of peace and history

Envy of sleeping in a 13th-century castle in the middle of nature? The Château-Monastère de la Corroirie, a former retreat for Carthusian monks, is an invitation to meditation. Here, the rooms are not just comfortable; they are bathed in silence and mystery.

Take the opportunity to discover the architectural treasures of the Carthusian monks, between chapel and underground passages, by candlelight, on the occasion of an unusual night.

Chartreuse du Liget A weekend away from the world

The Chartreuse du Liget, right in the heart of the woods, is the ideal place to disconnect. This former abbey offers rooms with rustic charm, ideal for an unusual getaway in Touraine. Here, the experience goes beyond the simple overnight stay: wander through the ancient cloisters, explore the hidden frescoes, and let yourself be lulled by the birdsong at sunrise.