Well before you reach the town of Saumur, you can see the silhouette of its château rising proudly from a rocky outcrop high above the river.

The château has been keeping guard over the town since the 11th Century when it was built as a fortress. The original building lacked a lot of its present day detail. It was destroyed in 1067 and then rebuilt by the Plantagenet Kings in the 1300s when many features were added, including the octagonal towers. Later, the château became a bastion for the Huguenots, a military barracks and then a prison. It is now a museum. 

The building has enjoyed a decade of ambitious renovation. Now you can enjoy the richness of its exterior by exploring the courtyard, gardens and enjoying views over the Loire. The galleries present the history of the site and include items carved in the fourteenth century. You can also see one of the best collections of equestrian exhibits. In summer, you can travel back in time to the days of kings René  through a selection of animations and daily shows, with jousting and equestrian events during the day and magical light shows in the evening. 

Partially closed for restoration, there are still exhibits on display and it is worth the trip for the views over the Loire and the surrounding countryside. 

Here you are just a stones throw away from the cobbled historic town centre where you can take in some amazing architecture whilst browsing the shops and boutiques. All those shopaholics out there should remember that Saumur was the birthplace of Coco Chanel!

Sam's Scoop

In July and August, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening you can watch a light and music show spanning centuries of French history and featuring personalities such as the Marquis de Sade, Napoléon, Balzac and Coco Chanel.