
Château d'Ussé
A turreted white castle, allegedly the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty, offering a fairy tale experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical

Château d'Ussé
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more magical

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A turreted white castle, allegedly the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty, offering a fairy tale experience.
"OMG what a beautiful picturesque chateau this is. Just like the fairy tale it is reputed to have inspired."

Follow Signs for Parking
Parking is free but not well-marked. Trust Google Maps but prioritize official château signs to avoid wrong turns. :car:
Explore Every Room
The castle is quite open for exploration, offering a comprehensive visit to its rooms and displays. :key:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sleeping Beauty Experience
Upper floors
Wander through rooms and towers brought to life with scenes from the classic fairy tale.

Enchanting Exterior Views
From the grounds
Admire the turreted white facade, a true fairy tale vision that inspired the Sleeping Beauty story.

Charming Gardens and Views
Castle grounds
Explore the lovely gardens and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Fairy Tale Visit
Navigating to the Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Follow Signs for Parking
Parking is free but not well-marked. Trust Google Maps but prioritize official château signs to avoid wrong turns. :car:
Explore Every Room
The castle is quite open for exploration, offering a comprehensive visit to its rooms and displays. :key:
Fairy Tale Ambiance
The château truly lives up to its Sleeping Beauty inspiration with charming decor and scenes. :sparkles:
Enjoy the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle for a peaceful stroll and lovely views. :seedling:
Tips
from all over the internet
Follow Signs for Parking
Parking is free but not well-marked. Trust Google Maps but prioritize official château signs to avoid wrong turns. :car:
Explore Every Room
The castle is quite open for exploration, offering a comprehensive visit to its rooms and displays. :key:
Fairy Tale Ambiance
The château truly lives up to its Sleeping Beauty inspiration with charming decor and scenes. :sparkles:
Enjoy the Gardens
Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle for a peaceful stroll and lovely views. :seedling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Château d'Ussé for its enchanting fairy tale atmosphere and picturesque exterior, often calling it a 'Sleeping Beauty castle.' The comprehensive tour and charming gardens are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects. Some find the interior less historically significant compared to other Loire Valley châteaux, but the unique thematic presentation is generally well-received.
"Lovely time there, could park the bike safety ( cameras in the area ) and had a very nice visit to the sleeping beauty castle. there are caves, jail and gardens, like a fairy tale. Food at the front and wine sale on the side. ( Independent shops )"
Aurélie
"The wonderful Château d'Ussé presents scenes from the story "The Sleeping Beauty " on the top floor. The ticket price is €14.5 / person. There is parking in front of the castle but it is not signposted but 📍 on google.map and it is free
07.05.2025"
il Câpitano _VAP
"It’s very beautiful outside but not so special inside I think. You can see the sleep beauty manequins telling her story.
The church is small but kilt."
Luciana Côrtes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Château d'Ussé is located in the Loire Valley. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with parking available on-site. If using GPS, be cautious of small mountain roads and follow signs for the château.
Yes, there is free parking in front of the castle. However, it is not always clearly signposted, so using Google Maps and looking for official château signs is recommended.
Public transport options to Château d'Ussé are limited. It's best accessed by car. If you are relying on public transport, you may need to combine trains and local buses, which can be time-consuming.
The most direct route is typically via the D751 road. If using GPS, be aware that it might suggest small, unpaved roads; it's safer to stick to main roads and follow château signage.
While the exterior grounds are generally accessible, some interior areas of the château, particularly the upper floors and towers, may present challenges due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The ticket price is approximately €14.5 per person. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
While advance booking is not always mandatory, especially during off-peak times, it can be a good idea during peak season to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Check their official website for booking options.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Château d'Ussé website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and days.
Typically, there is a standard admission ticket. Special passes or combination tickets with other Loire Valley châteaux are less common for Ussé specifically, but it's worth checking their site.
Many visitors find the ticket price reasonable for the experience, especially given the comprehensive tour of the castle and its unique Sleeping Beauty theme.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully furnished rooms, including those depicting scenes from the Sleeping Beauty story. The castle also features caves, a jail, and lovely fresh flower arrangements.
Yes, children often enjoy Château d'Ussé due to its fairy tale theme, especially the Sleeping Beauty dioramas. The open nature of the tour also makes it engaging for younger visitors.
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the château and its grounds. The comprehensive tour allows you to see most of the accessible areas.
While there might not be formal guided tours, the castle is designed for self-exploration, allowing you to go at your own pace. Information panels may be available in various languages.
The gardens are lovely and offer picturesque views of the château. They provide a peaceful space to walk and appreciate the architecture and surrounding landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Château d'Ussé, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain rooms or exhibits. Be mindful of other visitors.
The exterior views of the château are incredibly photogenic, especially from the grounds. The gardens also offer beautiful perspectives. Look for angles that capture its fairy tale charm.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites like Château d'Ussé to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations and the château's policy before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a magical atmosphere for photography, highlighting the château's architecture and surrounding landscape. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
The iconic silhouette of the château against the sky is a must-capture. The Sleeping Beauty scenes inside also offer unique and whimsical photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: The castle's open layout allows for easy exploration, and the manageable size means kids are less likely to get bored. Parking is convenient, and the gardens offer a nice space for them to stretch their legs. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and make the experience more relaxed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for weekday mornings to capture the château without crowds. Experiment with different angles from the grounds to showcase its fairy tale architecture. Inside, while photography is usually allowed, be mindful of lighting conditions and any specific restrictions in certain rooms.
❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways
Romantic recommendations: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, take in the stunning exterior views together, and immerse yourselves in the enchanting Sleeping Beauty narrative within the castle. Visiting during quieter times can enhance the intimate atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sleeping Beauty Connection
This fairy tale connection is a major draw for visitors, and the château leans into this theme with its interior displays. Walking through the rooms, you'll encounter the princess in her slumber, the prince's arrival, and other key moments from the story. It's this imaginative storytelling within a real historical setting that makes Château d'Ussé so memorable and beloved. The attention to detail in these displays enhances the magical atmosphere.
Exploring the Castle's Interior
The interior highlights include the various chambers that showcase the Sleeping Beauty narrative, but also rooms that reflect the château's own history and architecture. You'll find elements like the jail and caves, adding a touch of intrigue. The fresh flower arrangements throughout the castle also add a touch of elegance and life to the historical setting, making the experience feel more personal and welcoming.
Gardens and Exterior Charm
Strolling through the gardens provides a tranquil experience and excellent opportunities for photography. You can capture the château from various angles, appreciating its picturesque setting. The combination of the architectural splendor and the natural beauty of the grounds makes for a truly enchanting visit.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit