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Chateau de l'Islette in the Loire Valley

Chateau de l'Islette near Azay-le Rideau

Sitting slightly upriver from its more famous neighbour Chateau Azay le Rideau, Chateau de l'Islette knows that it has a job on to attract the tourists through its portal and establish itself as a major Loire Valley attraction. It has, in our opinion all the necessary credentials, a beautiful renaissance exterior, lovely relaxing gardens and owners who are prepared to put in the effort to put it firmly on Loire Valley visitors itineraries.

bridge over the indre to Chateau de l'Islette

Like its nearby neighbour water plays a big part in the chateau surroundings. It sits on the bank of the river Indre which you cross over after passing through the chateau gates on the perimeter wall.

 Chateau l'Islette coffee and gift shop

To the left of the chateau there is what used to be a working mill, where, in the past the local community would mill their corn in return for a payment to the local lord. It now it houses a small gift shop and cafe where you can relax and admire your surroundings plus offers boat rentals allowing you to take to the water.

The chateau, the oldest part of which dates from the 15th century, has only been open to the public since 2010 and a visit includes a tour of the chateau (around 45min.), which, when we visited was presented with enthusiasm, giving you its history. They are proud of the fact that Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel  choose l'Islette for their romantic trysts and the tour takes you in their footsteps.

  

The rooms on view are exquisite but what makes this visit more interesting is that you are touring a chateau that has been adapted for modern living (it is a family home) and after touring some of the more austere examples the Loire Valley has to offer, it is a breath of fresh air. Don't be surprised when you spot the occasional flat screen TV or DVD selection as you go from room to room - yes this chateau is very much alive!

We loved the modern bathroom suite.

Chateau del'Islette reflecting on th river Indre

To us however the great thing about l'Islette is its gardens and grounds, we don't think you will find a more relaxing or tranquil spot - take a picnic - or a boat on the lake or simply unwind...

gardens at Chateau de l'Islette   boats on the river indre at chateau del'Islette

  

...and you may even catch a glimpse of the lady of the house going about her business!

They haven't forgotten about the kids here with costumes to allow them to become Princesses and knights for the day.

 

If you are visiting Azay-le-Rideau don't fail to add this delightful place to your itinerary.

Openfrom 10am until 7pm
- last admission 6pm

 

Guided Tours

Mornings: 10.30am – 11.30am – 12.30pm

Afternoons: 2pm – 3pm – 4pm – 5pm – 6pm

Prices:

 

Adults: €8,50

Reduced price: €5,00
for children/young adults aged 8-18 and students under 25 (on presentation of a student card).

Children under 8: free

 

 

 

 

External links:

 

https://www.chateaudelislette.fr/          Official website

 

Blog roll:

 

https://www.mespetitsbonheurs.com      A visit to l'Islette

 

https://loirevalleyexperiences                 Blogpost on l'Islette

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"Author: Jim Craig"