Chateau Du Lude Jp Berlose 2 LargeChateau Du Lude Jp Berlose 2 Large
©Chateau Du Lude Jp Berlose 2 Large|Jean-Philippe Berlose
Le Château du Lude
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Le Lude Castle

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Considered to be the most northerly of the Loire châteaux, it is one of the few large châteaux still inhabited by a family that has occupied it for 260 years.

It is a precious testimony to four centuries of French architecture, from a defensive fortress to an elegant Renaissance and Classical residence.

A living, breathing castle 

Halfway between Tours and Le Mans, in the Loir Valley, the château and gardens of Le Lude are one of the great châteaux of the Loire Valley.

A former medieval fortress transformed during the Renaissance, it is a harmonious blend of defensive and elegant architecture. Its ornate facades, refined interiors and vast gardens make it an iconic site. Listed as a Historic Monument, Château du Lude also stands out for its natural setting and lively atmosphere, a blend of history and the art of living.

Chateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 4 LargeChateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 4 Large
©Chateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 4 Large
Chateau Du Lude Nicolas Diolez Hd 29 LargeChateau Du Lude Nicolas Diolez Hd 29 Large
©Chateau Du Lude Nicolas Diolez Hd 29 Large|© Nicolas Diolez
      Chateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 1 LargeChateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 1 Large
      ©Chateau Du Lude Stevan Lira 1 Large|STEVAN_LIRA

        A lively castle 

        Since 2020, the upper floors have been open to visitors, with the hunting room, chapel, guest flat, linen room and servants’ flat.

        Beyond its imposing appearance, Le Lude is above all a site with a soul, which you can feel throughout your visit. It is one of the few large châteaux that is still inhabited, the object of all the care of a family that has occupied it for 260 years.

        Young and old alike will be enchanted by the labyrinth, the stables, the underground passageways, the kitchens, the library and so many other surprises along the way.

        The outbuildings house Escape Game rooms for fun with family and friends.

        Frequently asked questions
        • When is Château du Lude open?

          The Château is open from 4 April to 31 October and during school holidays.
          The Château is open on public holidays.

          winter holidays (14 February to 1 March): daily
          4 April to 30 September: daily
          1 to 16 October: Saturdays and Sundays
          17 October to 2 November: daily
          Christmas holidays (19 December to 3 January): every day except 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January.

        • How much does Le Lude Castle cost?

          Visit the Château and its gardens

          adults: €12; students (with proof): €9.50; teenagers (aged 13-18): €8.50; children (aged 6-12): €6

          Visit the gardens alone

          adult: €8; student (with ID): €7; teenager (13-18): €7; child (6-12): €5

        • Does Le Lude castle welcome groups?

          Château du Lude welcomes groups all year round, by prior arrangement.

          To find out more

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