Top 5 Castles around Beaufort-En-Anjou
Castles around Beaufort-En-Anjou, a commune in Maine-et-Loire, France, provide a historical journey through the Anjou region. The area features the Château de Beaufort-en-Vallée, an 11th-century defensive castle with medieval ruins and a 17th-century residence. The wider Anjou region offers a collection of notable châteaux, each showcasing distinct architectural styles and historical significance. These sites present opportunities to explore various periods of French heritage.
Best castles around Beaufort-En-Anjou
- The most popular castles is Montgeoffroy Castle, a castle that retains much of its original condition. It offers insights into castle life across different centuries.
- Another must-see spot is Château de Baugé, a medieval castle built by King René. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about the life of this Renaissance prince.
- Visitors also love Blaison-Gohier Castle and Collegiate Church, a castle and religious building set in the heart of vineyards. It is an essential stop on the GR 3 route.
- Beaufort-En-Anjou is known for its medieval ruins, Renaissance châteaux, and fortified castles. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from defensive structures to grand residences.
- The castles around Beaufort-En-Anjou are appreciated by the komoot community, with 20 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Château de Baugé
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Montgeoffroy Castle
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Opening hours:
March 25th to June 30th from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 5pm.
July and August from 10am to 6pm.
September to 12 November Wednesday to Sunday from 10 to 12 o'clock and from 14 to 17 o'clock.
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Blaison-Gohier Castle and Collegiate Church
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Tour of Trier
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Château de Saumur
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Saumur is the twin town of Havelberg.
Coco Chanel was born in Saumur in 1883.
A Hôtel Cit'hotel L'Univers in Angers
1 Château de Brissac in Brissac-Quincé
2 Eglise Notre-Dame de Cunault
3 Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Nantilly in Saumur
4Chateau Saumur
5 Saumur old town, La Maison de la Reine de Sicile
B Hotel Mercure Bords de Loire in Saumur
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Tips from the Community
Nice viewpoint on the side of the road, castle that can be visited, I didn't take the time to do it
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PRICES Individual price adult: €9.00 Individual price reduced: €7.50 15-18 years old, student, job seeker, person with a disability Individual price child: €4.50 7-14 years old Family formula: €22.50 2 adults + 2 children (7-14 years old)
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SCHEDULES From May 25 to June 11, 2021 Monday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Wednesday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
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VISITS Free individual visits Average duration of individual visit: 1 hour Welcoming groups from 20 people to 40 people Free group visits Guided group tours Guided group tours on request Educational group visits Average duration of the group visit: 1h15 Point of interest visible without visit Languages available Audio: French Panels: French, English Spoken: French, English ACTIVITIES Specific thematic animation Children's workshop Temporary exhibitions
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The castle and the Hôtel-Dieu de Baugé, today managed by the city, are among the heritage riches of this thousand-year-old city, labeled “Most beautiful detour in France” and “Little City of Character”. Known for his numerous architectural achievements, King René, Duke of Anjou, had the castle built in the 15th century as his hunting lodge. Simplicity, charm and elegance are the key words of this architectural ensemble, as evidenced by the imposing spiral staircase overlooked by its palm tree vault. Baugé castle first appeared at the beginning of the 11th century when Foulques III Nerra, count of Anjou and formidable warrior, had a fortress built on a rocky spur, at the confluence of the Couesnon and the Altrée, intended to secure east of its territory. No trace of this vast ensemble remains today, the last vestiges having been razed in the middle of the 19th century during the development of the current Place de l'Europe in front of the castle. Between the 11th and 14th centuries, a new castle was built on the site of the current castle, but the sources are incomplete for this period. It was probably burned down during the Hundred Years' War. On these bases the current castle was built between 1454 and 1465, commissioned by René I, Duke of Anjou (1409-1480) from its architect Guillaume Robin. Discover the new scenography of the Château de Baugé inaugurated in May 2021: the Palace of King René. In this brand new journey, let yourself be told the stories of a great story, that of a unique knight-artist. Imagine... You are the guest of a royal banquet, you discover the precious works of the library or, surprise, you explore an astonishing forest in the attic of the castle until then closed to the public. Between history and poetry, daily life and imagination, the new route through the Palais du Roi René will leave you dreaming. The visit to the Baugé castle goes hand in hand with the discovery of the Hôtel-Dieu de Baugé. The city's first hospital opened in 1650 thanks to the tenacity of two women wishing to offer a place of welcome and care to the most deprived in the region, it closed in 2001 after 350 years of hospital activity. In turn, the sick room, the baroque chapel, the convent buildings, the simple garden are revealed to visitors. The whole still constitutes today a coherent architectural ensemble and witness to the dual vocation of the place: care of souls and care of the body. Among the masterpieces to discover in the Loire Valley, the apothecary is one of the must-sees. A mysterious atmosphere reigns in this 17th century pharmacy, recognized as one of the richest and most complete in Europe.
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Baugé Castle is a medieval castle built by King René, Duke of Anjou and hunting enthusiast. You can explore the castle and learn about the life and times of this Renaissance prince, who ruled a vast territory from Anjou to Jerusalem. You can also attend a sound and light show reconstructing the history of the castle and its owner. The castle is open from April to October, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. every day except Monday.
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Set in the heart of the vineyards, the small town of Blaison-Gohier benefits from the Small Towns of Character label. With its castle and its collegiate church, Blaison-Gohier is an essential stop on the GR 3 which crosses its town.
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The Château de Baugé is a historic monument from medieval times which stands in the city of Baugé, in the town of Baugé-en-Anjou, in the department of Maine-et-Loire in the heart of Anjou. It dates from the 15th century and was built for King René, Duke of Anjou, a great lover of hunting. (source Wikipedia)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles can I explore directly in Beaufort-en-Anjou?
In Beaufort-en-Anjou, you can visit the Château de Beaufort-en-Vallée. This site features 11th-century medieval ruins and a 17th-century residence. You can explore the ruins without a guide and take a guided tour of the residence, which concludes with a tasting of the château's Cassero liqueur. The grounds are open daily from mid-March to mid-November.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in the wider Anjou region?
Yes, the Anjou region offers family-friendly options. The Château de Baugé, a medieval castle built by King René, offers an immersive experience where visitors can learn about the Renaissance prince. Additionally, Château de Gizeux is particularly welcoming to families, offering interactive elements, disguises, and treasure hunts for children alongside its historical tours.
Which castles offer unique architectural or artistic features?
The Château de Gizeux stands out with its impressive 250-meter length, making it the longest inhabited château in western Touraine. It houses France's largest privately-owned collection of Renaissance frescoes, including a 'hidden Renaissance gallery' and evidence of a 17th-century art school. The Montgeoffroy Castle is also notable for retaining much of its original condition, offering insights into castle life across different centuries.
Can I combine a castle visit with wine tasting in the Anjou region?
Absolutely. The Château d'Avrillé, located in the heart of the Anjou vineyards, is a prominent wine estate. It offers various wine tourism packages, including guided tours of the production cellar and tastings of their AOP wines, often accompanied by gourmet snacks. This château combines historical architecture with a modern viticultural experience.
What are the best times of year to visit castles around Beaufort-en-Anjou?
The period from mid-March to mid-November is generally ideal, as many castle grounds, like those of the Château de Beaufort-en-Vallée, are open during these months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring gardens and outdoor areas, while summer provides longer opening hours and often special events. Always check specific castle websites for their exact seasonal schedules.
Are there castles known for their gardens or natural surroundings?
Yes, the Château du Pin in Champtocé-sur-Loire is renowned for its award-winning gardens, classified as 'Remarkable Gardens' by the French Ministry of Culture. These gardens feature unique topiaries, extensive flower gardens, rose gardens, and frog ponds, offering a beautiful setting for a stroll. The Château d'Avrillé is also set amidst 200 hectares of vineyards overlooking the Aubance valley, providing scenic natural surroundings.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Beaufort-en-Anjou offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling and hiking routes that pass by or near several castles. For example, there are cycling routes like the 'Montgeoffroy Castle – Château de Briançon loop' and hiking routes such as the 'Château de Beaufort-en-Anjou – Beaufort loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Beaufort-En-Anjou and Hiking around Beaufort-En-Anjou guide pages.
Which castles offer a glimpse into medieval history?
The Château de Beaufort-en-Vallée, with its 11th-century origins and preserved medieval ruins, provides a direct link to the region's early defensive structures. The Château de Baugé, built by King René in the 15th century, is another excellent example of a medieval castle where you can explore the life and times of a Renaissance prince.
Are there any castles that are less crowded or considered hidden gems?
While popular sites attract many visitors, exploring some of the lesser-known châteaux or visiting during off-peak hours can offer a more tranquil experience. The Château du Pin, known primarily for its gardens and available for private rentals, might offer a more intimate visit compared to larger, more frequently toured sites. Similarly, the Château d'Avrillé, focusing on its wine estate, provides a unique experience away from typical tourist crowds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Beaufort-en-Anjou?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and variety of the castles, from medieval ruins to grand residences. Many enjoy the opportunity to step back in time and learn about different periods of French history. The beautiful settings, often with extensive gardens or vineyards, and the chance to combine history with local culture, such as wine tasting, are also highly valued.
Can I find castles that are part of longer walking routes?
Yes, some castles are integrated into popular walking routes. For instance, the Blaison-Gohier Castle and Collegiate Church is an essential stop on the GR 3 route, set amidst vineyards. This allows you to combine a scenic hike with a visit to a historical site.
Is there public transport available to reach castles in the Anjou region?
While specific public transport routes vary for each castle, it's generally recommended to check local bus services or regional trains for connections to towns near the châteaux. For more remote locations, driving or cycling might offer greater flexibility. Always consult the official tourism websites for the most up-to-date transport information for individual castles.
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