Chateau du Rivau

About

Château du Rivau is a 15th‑century fortified castle set in the heart of the Loire Valley, surrounded by 15 themed gardens that change with the seasons. The castle’s stone keep, guard towers and Renaissance‑era stables offer a walk through medieval life, while the museum‑like interior showcases a mix of medieval, Renaissance and contemporary art. Visitors can explore the fairy‑tale gardens, the conservatory of fragrant roses, the orchard of the Parcarother, and the themed paths such as the Chemin des Fées. The grounds are a living laboratory for sustainable horticulture, with a local organic vegetable garden supplying the castle’s two restaurants. The castle also hosts seasonal art exhibitions, themed tours, and a wide range of family‑friendly activities, including costume visits, Easter egg hunts and companion guide‑led play. Our guests can enjoy a luxurious stay in the 7 boutique rooms or join one of the many guided strolls that highlight the castle’s rich history, artistic heritage and ecological commitments. In 2025, Château du Rivau presents the ‘Surprises au Château du Rivau’ contemporary art exhibition, running from 29 April to 11 November. The show features more than 80 works—paintings, sculptures, and photographs—bringing humor and wonder to art history through a curatorial narrative inspired by historic cabinets of curiosities. The exhibition is included in the admission ticket to the castle and its gardens, allowing visitors to enjoy a culturally rich experience alongside the classic attractions. The castle’s open hours remain from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm daily, with the exhibition operating during the same hours: 10:00‑18:00 am in April and October‑November, and 10:00‑19:00 am from May through September. Family‑friendly activities, guided tours, and theatrical storytelling continue to delight guests of all ages. Château du Rivau is a destination that blends history, art, gardens, and sustainability into a single unforgettable experience.

Highlights

• Medieval Castle Architecture
• Fairytale Gardens
• Contemporary Art Collection
• Sustainable Gardens Practices
• Family‑Friendly Activities
• Surprises au Château du Rivau Art Exhibition 2025

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 3 hours