Monday's chateau: Château de Saumur

Château de Saumur rises dramatically on its hill overlooking the Loire River and the town below.

From this angle, the château’s pale stone walls and round towers stand out against the blue sky, with its slate roofs and pointed turrets giving it a fairytale silhouette.

Originally built as a fortress in the 10th century, the château was transformed in the 14th and 15th centuries into a more residential Renaissance-style residence. It has served many roles over the centuries, fortress, royal residence, prison, and military academy and offers beautiful views over the Loire river.

Bon lundi dans la vallée de la Loire !

“Each château tells a story — of kings, of artists, and of the dream of France itself.”

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Part of the “Châteaux of the Loire” Series

Every Monday, we explore one of the Loire Valley's legendary châteaux — from royal residences to riverside retreats — each revealing a different chapter of the region's story.

Discover more about the Loire Valley

Browse the full series

 © Experience Loire — Châteaux of the Loire · ,

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Monday's chateau - Château de Montreuil-Bellay.

Château de Montreuil-Bellay (Maine-et-Loire) dominates the hill above the village of the same name.

From this view, the château's towers and walls stand out against the sky, with its conical roofs, stone battlements, and chimneys clearly visible. The village spreads below with slate roofs and stone houses clustered at the base of the hill.

The château dates back to the 11th century as a fortress, rebuilt in the 15th century by the Harcourt family, and later modified during the Renaissance. It remains privately owned but is open to visitors for tours of the interiors, ramparts, and gardens.

A reminder: many châteaux are best seen from below, rising above the village, simple in outline, full of history.

Bon lundi...

“Each château tells a story — of kings, of artists, and of the dream of France itself.”

---

Part of the “Châteaux of the Loire” Series

Every Monday, we explore one of the Loire Valley’s legendary châteaux — from royal residences to riverside retreats — each revealing a different chapter of the region’s story.

Discover more about the Loire Valley
Browse the full series

 © Experience Loire — Châteaux of the Loire · ,

Back to Home