Château de Saumur: A Loire Valley Jewel
Explore a fairytale castle in the Loire Valley, home to museums, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the Loire River and Saumur.
Rising majestically above the town of Saumur, the Château de Saumur is a captivating landmark with a history spanning over a millennium. Initially constructed in the 10th century as a fortified stronghold against Norman invasions by Theobald I, Count of Blois, it guarded the confluence of the Loire and Thouet rivers. In 1026, it fell into the hands of Fulk Nerra, Count of Anjou, marking the beginning of its transformation. Over the centuries, the château has served many roles, including a royal residence, a governor's house, and even a prison. Louis I of Anjou transformed it into a palatial residence in the 14th century, and it became a favored residence of King René in the 15th century. The château's image is immortalized in the famous Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a testament to its splendor. Today, the Château de Saumur houses two fascinating museums. The Musée des Arts Décoratifs displays an exceptional collection of furniture, tapestries, and ceramics from the 14th to the 18th centuries. The Musée du Cheval (Horse Museum) celebrates the region's equestrian heritage with a diverse collection of harnesses and artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Saumur and the Loire River from the château's belvedere. The castle is open to the public, and you may explore its interior at your own pace.
Local tips
- Arrive early or visit later in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (summer months and school vacations).
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the castle and its museums.
- Take the guided tour to the belvedere for unique views and to see the double spiral staircase.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps and uneven floors throughout the castle.
- Visit the gift shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and books.
A brief summary to Château de Saumur
- Saumur, 49400, FR
- +33241402440
Getting There
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Walking
From the Saumur town center, the Château de Saumur is a 10-15 minute walk uphill. Follow the signs towards the château, enjoying the scenic views as you ascend. Note that the final approach involves crossing a footbridge over a moat, which may be challenging for those with vertigo. An alternative route bypassing the footbridge is available through the town center. There is no cost associated with walking.
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Public Transport
From the Saumur train station, take bus line A towards 'Château'. Get off at the 'Château' stop, which is a 1-minute walk to the entrance. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. A single bus fare costs around €1.50.
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Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Saumur, including at the train station. A taxi ride from the Saumur train station to the Château de Saumur typically costs between €6 and €8 and takes around 3 minutes. Taxi fares within Saumur start at €5.00, with an additional €1.80 per kilometer.
