Château du Plessis-Macé - Château de Montal, Saint-Jean-Lespinasse Montal Dordogne
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Château du Plessis-Macé

4.6
·987 reviews·Longuenée-en-Anjou, France

A stunning 15th-century medieval castle with four round towers and charming carved balconies, set amidst beautiful medieval gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Likely open for tours

CrowdMedium
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Château du Plessis-Macé - Château de Montal, Saint-Jean-Lespinasse Montal Dordogne

Château du Plessis-Macé

Best Time

Weekends

Likely open for tours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning 15th-century medieval castle with four round towers and charming carved balconies, set amidst beautiful medieval gardens.

4.6
(987 reviews)

"Authentic medieval castle, away from crowded and too touristic areas."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Verify Opening Times

Double-check hours online before visiting, as closures can occur unexpectedly.

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Even if closed inside, the exterior and gardens are stunning.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Exterior

The Majestic Exterior

Castle grounds

Admire the imposing 15th-century architecture with its four round towers and carved balconies.

Medieval Gardens

Medieval Gardens

Castle grounds

Stroll through a beautifully planned garden that complements the historic castle setting.

Authentic Atmosphere

Authentic Atmosphere

Castle grounds

Experience a genuine medieval castle, far from overly touristy spots.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Hours Before You Go

While the exterior is always impressive, opening hours for interior tours can vary. Always verify the official schedule online or by phone to avoid disappointment, especially on public holidays or during special events. Reddit

Embrace the Medieval Charm

This authentic medieval castle offers a glimpse into history away from the usual tourist crowds. Plan for a leisurely exploration of the grounds and gardens to fully appreciate its charm. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Likely open for tours
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring/Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant for garden strolls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Verify Opening Times

Double-check hours online before visiting, as closures can occur unexpectedly. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Even if closed inside, the exterior and gardens are stunning. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The castle's medieval design is perfect for photography. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Verify Opening Times

Double-check hours online before visiting, as closures can occur unexpectedly. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

Even if closed inside, the exterior and gardens are stunning. Reddit

📸 Capture the Architecture

The castle's medieval design is perfect for photography. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(987 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Château du Plessis-Macé for its authentic medieval charm and beautiful, well-maintained gardens, often highlighting its peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds. Some disappointment arises from unexpected closures or lack of clear information regarding opening hours, suggesting a need for visitors to verify details beforehand. Reddit

"Only visited from the outside and it is still a truly amazing castle. Well planned garden and walk around. Highly recommended and we might go back to visit inside."

Lynda Dupont

"Fantastic!! I must come back and get the grande tour. It's truly beautiful and worth the visit."

Erin Urban

"Extremely disappointing. We drove on the Saturday 18 September (Journées du patrimoine) to visit this castle only to find a little paper note on the door advising that it was closed that day. Nothing was mentioned on the website, and on the Google map it was indicated as open. Such a lack of consideration!"

E F

What People Like

Authentic medieval castle
Beautiful gardens
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Unexpected closures
Inconsistent hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Château du Plessis-Macé is located in the Maine-et-Loire department of France. It's best accessed by car, offering a scenic drive through the countryside. Public transport options are limited, so driving is highly recommended for flexibility. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors, allowing for convenient access to the castle grounds and gardens. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website or contact the chateau directly before your visit, as they may be closed on certain days or for private events. Reddit

Admission fees for interior tours, if available, are generally reasonable. However, the exterior and gardens can often be enjoyed without an entry fee, offering a beautiful experience. Reddit

Yes, visitors can often explore the exterior of the castle and its medieval gardens even when interior tours are not available or if you prefer to admire it from the outside. Reddit

The chateau may host special events, particularly during heritage days or seasonal festivals. It's advisable to check their schedule for any upcoming activities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the impressive 15th-century architecture, including its four round towers and chateau with carved balconies. The well-maintained medieval gardens are also a highlight. Reddit

Absolutely! The authentic medieval architecture and charming gardens provide numerous picturesque opportunities for photography. Reddit

Compared to more famous landmarks, Château du Plessis-Macé is often described as being away from crowded and too touristic areas, offering a more peaceful experience. Reddit

Take your time to walk around the castle's exterior and explore the medieval gardens. If interior tours are available, consider taking one for a deeper understanding of its history. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Typically, there are no dining facilities directly within the chateau itself. Visitors are advised to plan for meals in nearby towns or bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds. Reddit

The castle grounds and gardens often provide a lovely setting for a picnic, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while you dine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The front facade with its towers, the carved balconies, and various vantage points within the medieval gardens offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the chateau administration or local authorities for specific rules before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Château du Plessis-Macé offers a wonderful opportunity for families to introduce children to history in an engaging way. The imposing exterior and the expansive gardens provide plenty of space for kids to explore and imagine themselves as knights or royalty. While interior tours might be less engaging for very young children, the grounds themselves are a fantastic playground for discovery. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, making it a cost-effective and enjoyable outing. Encourage children to look for architectural details or imagine stories about the castle's past. The lack of overwhelming crowds also makes it a more relaxed experience for families. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ History Enthusiasts

For those with a passion for history, Château du Plessis-Macé is a gem. Its 15th-century origins and well-preserved medieval features offer a direct link to the past. The authentic atmosphere, free from excessive tourist development, allows for a more genuine appreciation of its historical significance. Reddit

Researching the castle's history prior to your visit can greatly enhance the experience. Pay close attention to the architectural details, such as the defensive towers and any remnants of its original layout. The surrounding region also has a rich historical tapestry worth exploring. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Medieval Architecture

Château du Plessis-Macé stands as a testament to 15th-century military and residential architecture. Its four imposing round towers are characteristic of defensive structures of the era, designed to provide strategic advantages and withstand sieges. The chateau itself features carved balconies, adding a touch of elegance and indicating a shift towards more comfortable living spaces alongside defensive capabilities. This blend of fortification and habitation makes it a fascinating example of transitional castle design. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the authenticity of the castle, noting its escape from the heavy commercialization found at more popular tourist sites. This allows for a more immersive experience, where one can truly appreciate the historical ambiance and imagine life within its walls centuries ago. The well-planned medieval garden further enhances this feeling, providing a serene and historically relevant setting. Reddit

The Enchanting Medieval Gardens

The medieval gardens at Château du Plessis-Macé are a significant draw, offering a beautifully curated space that complements the historic architecture. These gardens are designed to reflect the styles and plant choices of the medieval period, providing a tranquil and picturesque environment for visitors. Strolling through these grounds allows for a peaceful escape and a deeper connection with the castle's past. Reddit

Travelers frequently praise the well-planned layout of the gardens, noting how they enhance the overall aesthetic of the chateau. They are ideal for leisurely walks, offering different perspectives of the castle and providing a serene backdrop for photography. The gardens are particularly enjoyable during the spring and summer months, when the flora is in full bloom. Reddit

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