Château du Plessis-Bourré - The castle was built according to the instructions of Jean Bourré in only 5 years from 1468 to 1473, a remarkable achievement for the time. To this day, it remains as it was built in the fifteenth century. The Château du Plessis-Bourré has the particularity of being in the Transition style. Indeed, it has all the characteristics of a fortress of the late Middle Ages with its defense system. However, its elegance, its arcaded walkway, its high mullioned windows and the comfort of its interiors appreciated by several kings of France herald the Renaissance.
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Château du Plessis-Bourré

4.5
·2k reviews·Écuillé, France

Step back into the 15th century at this remarkably preserved château, complete with a working drawbridge and authentic interiors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends & Event Days

Experience reenactments

CrowdMedium
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Château du Plessis-Bourré - The castle was built according to the instructions of Jean Bourré in only 5 years from 1468 to 1473, a remarkable achievement for the time. To this day, it remains as it was built in the fifteenth century. The Château du Plessis-Bourré has the particularity of being in the Transition style. Indeed, it has all the characteristics of a fortress of the late Middle Ages with its defense system. However, its elegance, its arcaded walkway, its high mullioned windows and the comfort of its interiors appreciated by several kings of France herald the Renaissance.

Château du Plessis-Bourré

Best Time

Weekends & Event Days

Experience reenactments

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back into the 15th century at this remarkably preserved château, complete with a working drawbridge and authentic interiors.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A stunning 1450 authentic Loire Valley Chateau, chateau is open to visitors to tour the chateau rooms and towers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶 Park & Walk

Be prepared for a short walk from the parking area to the château entrance. :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look for reenactments and special events for a more dynamic visit. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Working Drawbridge

The Working Drawbridge

Entrance

Experience a genuine 15th-century drawbridge, a rare feature that truly transports you to another era.

Unaltered Interiors

Unaltered Interiors

Throughout the château

Explore rooms that remain almost entirely as they were in the 15th century, offering a unique historical immersion.

Impressive Moat

Impressive Moat

Exterior

A stunning, water-filled moat surrounds the château, adding to its formidable and picturesque medieval charm.

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Authenticity is Key

Château du Plessis-Bourré offers an incredibly preserved glimpse into 15th-century life, with original furnishings and a working drawbridge. It's a rare chance to step back in time without modern alterations.

Plan for Events

Check the château's schedule for reenactments and special events like Napoleonic Day. These offer a dynamic experience beyond the standard tour, often featuring muskets, cannons, and horses.

Best Times

When
Weekends & Event Days
Why
Experience reenactments
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Enjoy peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Château du Plessis-Bourré, France

🚶 Park & Walk

Be prepared for a short walk from the parking area to the château entrance. :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look for reenactments and special events for a more dynamic visit. :calendar:

reddit.com

Plessis-Bourré, France. Built in less than 5 years from 1468 to 1472 on the site of an earlier castle, Plessis-Bourré has not been modified externally since its construction and still has a fully working portcullis and drawbridges. I'll post more in the comments.

reddit.com

Château du Plessis-Bourré, Maine-et-Loire, France

📸 Capture the Charm

The gardens and exterior offer beautiful photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

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Tips

from all over the internet

🚶 Park & Walk

Be prepared for a short walk from the parking area to the château entrance. :athletic_shoe:

📅 Check Event Schedule

Look for reenactments and special events for a more dynamic visit. :calendar:

📸 Capture the Charm

The gardens and exterior offer beautiful photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Château du Plessis-Bourré for its exceptional state of preservation, offering an authentic glimpse into 15th-century life with its unaltered interiors and working drawbridge. The beautiful gardens and the opportunity to witness historical reenactments are also frequently highlighted as major draws.

"Nice castle and we had the pleasure to go to the castle, when they were doing a reenactment. It was very cool to see them shoot with muskets, cannons and run through the gate with horses. The rooms were very well preserved and beautiful. Besides the castle, you'll also be able to walk through the garden. So overall, very kind staff and quite a nice castle when you're in the area. You do have to walk a bit from the parking lot to the castle. Not sure if that's common."

Bryan van Soest

"I visited this wonderful castle in Oct 2005 when I was student in Angers. I walked from the center of Angers in a Saturday morning and enjoyed the calm and beautiful country side view. The tour of castle is magnifique. Just found the photos in my old computer and want to share here."

wei zhang

"We had a beautiful afternoon at the Chateau, loved touring around the interior as well as the gardens. So well maintained, calm and peaceful 🤍"

Lily Watson

What People Like

Authentic 15th-century preservation
Working drawbridge and moat
Historical reenactments

What People Dislike

Short walk from parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Château du Plessis-Bourré is located in Maine-et-Loire, France. While public transport options might be limited, driving is the most convenient way to reach it. Parking is available nearby, though it requires a short walk to the château itself. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk from Angers to the château, a journey that offers beautiful countryside views. However, this is a significant distance and best suited for dedicated hikers. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally and are often extended during special event days. It's highly recommended to check the official website or contact the château directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

Admission fees apply for tours of the château. Prices can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts. Reddit

For standard visits, booking in advance might not be strictly necessary, but it's a good idea, especially during peak season or for special events. This can help you secure your entry and avoid potential queues. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are typically available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and details of the château. These tours often provide fascinating insights into the life of the former residents. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find remarkably preserved 15th-century rooms, including living quarters, dining areas, and towers. The château boasts an almost completely unaltered interior, offering an authentic historical experience. Reddit

Absolutely! The château is surrounded by beautiful grounds and gardens that are open for visitors to explore, offering lovely views of the exterior and a peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

Château du Plessis-Bourré frequently hosts special events, including historical reenactments like Napoleonic Day and medieval jousts. These events bring the history of the château to life with muskets, cannons, and horses. Reddit

Yes, children often enjoy the historical aspects, especially during reenactment events. The drawbridge and the sheer scale of the château can be captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

The château is famously surrounded by an impressive and functional moat, which was a crucial defensive feature in the 15th century. It adds significantly to the château's imposing and picturesque appearance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography is permitted inside the château to capture its historic interiors. Always check for signage or ask staff if unsure. Reddit

The exterior, especially the drawbridge and moat, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The gardens also provide beautiful backdrops. Drone footage has also captured its unique layout. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Château du Plessis-Bourré offers a fantastic adventure for families. The working drawbridge and the impressive moat are sure to capture children's imaginations. During special event days, the historical reenactments with muskets, cannons, and horses provide exciting visual and auditory experiences that kids will love. Reddit

Exploring the preserved rooms can be like stepping into a storybook. While the walk from the parking lot is short, it's worth noting for families with very young children. The gardens also provide space for kids to move around and enjoy the outdoors. Reddit

🏰 History Buffs

This château is a dream for anyone passionate about history. Its status as an almost completely unaltered 15th-century fortified château is exceptionally rare. You'll be walking through rooms that have retained their original character for over 500 years, offering an unparalleled glimpse into medieval life. Reddit

The presence of the working drawbridge and the water-filled moat are not just picturesque; they are functional elements of medieval defense that you can witness firsthand. The fact that the current owners are descendants of the original inhabitants adds another layer of historical depth. Don't miss the chance to explore the towers and learn about the château's past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living Piece of History

Château du Plessis-Bourré stands out for its remarkable state of preservation. Unlike many historical sites that have undergone extensive renovations, this 15th-century fortress remains almost completely unaltered. This means visitors can experience the château much as it was centuries ago, complete with original furnishings and architectural details. The current owners, descendants of the original inhabitants, still reside in private apartments within the château, adding a layer of continuity to its storied past. This commitment to authenticity makes it a truly special destination for history enthusiasts. Reddit

Several historic movies have been filmed here, testament to its authentic medieval atmosphere. The château's impressive moat, which is still filled with water, and its working drawbridge are particularly striking features that contribute to its formidable appearance and historical significance. Exploring its rooms and towers offers a tangible connection to the past, making it a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

Experiencing Medieval Life

For a truly immersive experience, try to time your visit with one of the château's special events. These often include historical reenactments that bring the medieval period to life. Visitors have reported seeing impressive displays with muskets, cannons, and even horse-mounted participants running through the gate. Reddit

These events, such as Napoleonic Day or medieval jousts, transform the château from a static museum into a vibrant historical spectacle. They offer a dynamic and engaging way to understand the military and social aspects of the eras associated with the château. Checking the event calendar in advance is highly recommended to catch these unique opportunities. Reddit

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