Château d'Ussé: Sleeping Beauty's Castle
Discover the fairytale magic of Château d'Ussé, the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty, with its stunning architecture, lavish interiors, and breathtaking Loire Valley views.
Château d'Ussé, gracefully perched overlooking the Indre Valley, is the enchanting inspiration behind Charles Perrault's Sleeping Beauty. Its fairytale silhouette, a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, captivates visitors with its turrets, towers, and meticulously manicured gardens. Stepping inside is like entering a living storybook, with lavishly decorated rooms showcasing period furnishings, intricate tapestries, and wax figures depicting scenes from the beloved tale. Beyond the fairytale allure, Ussé boasts a rich history, having been home to prominent French families for centuries. The castle's chapel, Italianate gardens designed by Le Nôtre, and panoramic views of the Loire Valley add to its undeniable charm. A visit to Château d'Ussé is a journey through history, art, and the magic of childhood dreams, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Château d'Ussé
- 338 Château d'Usse, Rigny-Ussé, 37420, FR
- +33247955405
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Allow ample time to explore both the interior of the château and the extensive gardens.
- Check the official website for special events, such as falconry displays or historical reenactments.
- Combine your visit with other Loire Valley châteaux for a comprehensive experience.
- Consider a picnic lunch in the gardens for a relaxing and scenic break.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from nearby towns like Chinon or Azay-le-Rideau, follow the D7 towards Rigny-Ussé. The château is well-signposted. Parking is available on-site, with rates typically around €5 per day. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.
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Public Transport
While there isn't a direct train to Rigny-Ussé, you can take a train to Tours or Chinon and then a local bus or taxi. From Tours, the bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. A taxi from Chinon will cost approximately €30-€40. Check local bus schedules for accurate timings and fares, as they can vary.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in larger nearby towns like Tours and Chinon. A taxi from Chinon to Château d'Ussé will cost approximately €30-€40, and the journey takes around 20 minutes. Ride-sharing services may offer slightly lower rates, but availability can be limited in this rural area.
Discover more about Château d'Ussé
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Mister Bed Chambray-les-Tours
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Montbazon Castle
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Mission Val de Loire
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Escape Yourself
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Nids de Loire
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Info Tours
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Les Halles de Tours
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Portail de l'Hôtel des Trésoriers de Saint-Martin
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Le Petit faucheux
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Maison
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Tour Places
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Station Citiz - Vieux Tours/rue Marceau
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Unmissable attractions to see
Chateau de Miniere
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Forteresse Royale de Chinon
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Château de l'Islette
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Château de Langeais
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VIGNOBLE DE LA JARNOTERIE
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Château d'Azay-le-Rideau
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Cave de la Sibylle
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Cave of Goupillières
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Confluence de la Loire et de la Vienne
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Château de Villandry
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Château de Parnay - Caveau de dégustation
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant du Château de Rochecotte
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Auberge Pom'Poire
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LOIRE GOURMANDE SAS
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Le Louis XIII
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LA MAISON DES HALLES
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O&A
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Le Chien Fou
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L accalmie
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Case.
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DAGOBERT
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Le Marché Gourmand
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Les Frérots restaurant
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Le Comptoir de Mamie Bigoude Tours Centre
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Bouchon Tourangeau
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La Plume Blanche
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Saumur Le Centre
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L'Heure Tranquille
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Vintage
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Monsieur Chris
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MV
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Victoryshop
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Plum & Co
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miraculeuse
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Gustave Concept Store
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Maison Paon
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Image In Tours
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Augustine Concept Store
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LUSH Cosmetics Tours
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Superdry Store Tours
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Le Serpent Volant
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Café Bar concerts Le Strapontin
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Bar the Hammock
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pub puzzle
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Bar Le Corsaire
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Camden Pub
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L'Epée Royale
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Crêperie Bar Cocktails La Cour
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Bar Café Chaud
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The Three Kings
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Café Bar Au Temps des Rois
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Le Tournesol
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Light Club - Villeperdue
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La Suite Club
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Citizen Bar
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LA COUR DES GRANDS
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L'Excalibur - Tours
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LE PYM'S
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Le Marquis - Tours
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Le milord - Tours
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Le Pacio
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LE FEELING
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Le Lady’s
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RED Club - club boîte de nuit Tours
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The New Vegas
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