But it was not until the end of the 18th century that the château was transformed with lavish living quarters, dropping its defence function, and adopting its now definitive appearance. The renovation of this once castle began in 1723 and took fifty years.
Today, as we have already pointed out, it’s a photographer’s dream, hinting that both the interior and exterior are worth a visit and with over thirty-five acres of parkland and gardens, a whole day can easily be taken up visiting this spectacle of wealth and luxury.
The château is guaranteed to surprise; there’s a small but very impressive theatre for example where French stage actress Sarah Bernhardt played there during the early 20th century.
Best of all, you can participate in an extraordinary historical experience involving hundreds of volunteers who take you on a guided tour following the footsteps of the very same Sarah Bernhardt, From Luxor in Egypt to the Parisian stage, the château is the setting for an adventure set at the beginning of the 1900s.
For those who are not looking for anything so dramatic (literally), you can join a one-hour tour of the château’s grand reception rooms and its most secret corners! Actually, it’s like moving through a movie set – the visit is totally immersive with actors playing out scenes at every corner.
It’s a fun and inspiring event and there is a show both in the morning and the afternoon up until 16th July. (Ed: that doesn’t leave much time, so it may be worth noting it for next year BUT the château is still worth a visit when you are next in-country).