Arriving at Rivau Castle, I immediately felt as though I had stepped into a fairytale. Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Touraine, this castle does not overwhelm with the majesty of Chambord or the historical weight of Langeais. Instead, it possesses a unique atmosphere—enchanting, poetic, and almost dreamlike. With its tall towers, moats, and vibrant gardens, Rivau invites you not only to admire but to imagine, to dream, and to rediscover a childlike sense of wonder.
Built in the 15th century, Rivau began as a medieval fortress but gradually transformed into a graceful residence. Its history is inseparably linked to Joan of Arc, who came here to requisition horses for her army. Walking across the cobbled courtyard, I couldn’t help but picture the scene: the sound of hooves, the clanking of armor, and Joan herself—determined, courageous, and larger than life—passing through the castle gates. That connection to one of France’s most legendary figures gives Rivau an aura of timeless significance.
What makes Rivau truly unforgettable, however, are its gardens. Twelve themed gardens surround the castle, each inspired by myths, legends, and fairy tales. From the Snow White Garden to Gargantua’s Vegetable Patch, from the Unicorn’s Labyrinth to the Secret Garden, each space tells a story through colors, scents, and playful details. Strolling among them, I felt transported into a world where nature and imagination intertwine—a place where flowers bloom like characters, and where every corner offers a surprise.
Inside the castle, the atmosphere is warm and full of life. The rooms are furnished to evoke daily life in the past, but what struck me most was Rivau’s unique ability to combine heritage with creativity. Contemporary art installations are displayed throughout the historic halls, creating a striking dialogue between centuries. Seeing a modern artwork framed by Gothic arches or a bold installation sharing space with an ancestral portrait felt refreshing and inspiring.
This blend of history, nature, and art makes Rivau Castle unlike any other. It doesn’t seek to impress with grandeur or power; instead, it charms and enchants. It is a place that tells stories, sparks the imagination, and offers both adults and children a journey beyond time.
Leaving Rivau, I felt I had experienced not just a castle, but a living fairytale—one that reminds us that heritage is not only about battles and stone walls, but also about dreams, creativity, and the emotions they awaken.
📍 Address & Visitor Information
Rivau Castle
Château du Rivau
9 Rue du Château
37120 Lémeré
France
Visitor Tips:
- Opening hours vary with the season—check the official website before visiting.
- Buy tickets online to avoid queues during peak summer.
- Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to explore both the castle and its gardens.
- The castle is best reached by car; it is about 45 minutes from Tours.
- The gardens are at their most beautiful from late spring to early autumn.
- Families will especially enjoy the fairytale-themed gardens designed for both adults and children.
