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Château de la Guignardière: A Renaissance Treasure

Explore a 16th-century Renaissance castle offering historical tours and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the Vendée region.

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The Château de la Guignardière, a 16th-century castle in Avrillé, Vendée, offers a blend of historical architecture and family-friendly activities. Though never fully completed after its construction began in 1555, it stands as a testament to Renaissance design and is now a classified historical monument.

A brief summary to Château de la Guignardière

  • Monday 11 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-7 pm
  • Friday 11 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Consider purchasing the 'Pass Château' if you only want to visit the castle without participating in the park activities. It costs €11 per person.
  • Explore the castle through the interactive police investigation on a tablet, offering a unique and engaging experience.
  • Check the official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they vary depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Avrillé is well-connected by public transport. From Angers, take the tram line A to the 'Avrillé-Ardenne' station. From the tram stop, the Château de la Guignardière is approximately a 10-15 minute taxi ride. Tram tickets cost around €1.50 - €2. A short taxi ride will cost approximately €10-€15.

  • Car

    If driving, the Château de la Guignardière is located just outside the small town of Avrillé. From Avrillé, follow the D949 towards Les Sables d'Olonne; the chateau will be signposted. Parking is available at the venue. Parking cost is included in the ticket price.

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Discover more about Château de la Guignardière

Château de la Guignardière, located in Avrillé, is a Renaissance castle with a rich, albeit unfinished, history. Construction began around 1555 for Jean Girard, a breadmaster to King Henri II. The architect envisioned a grand design, but Girard's assassination in 1563 led to the project's abandonment. Despite being incomplete, the castle showcases a rigorous, early classicist style, departing from traditional Renaissance vocabulary. In the 18th century, Count Sylvestre of Chaffault attempted to complete the château, adding Ionic pilasters and a pediment. However, the French Revolution forced his departure, and a republican mob plundered the estate. Today, visitors can explore much of the château, including the main courtyard, library, billiard room, dining room, grand staircase, the King's chamber, and the timber frameworks. The castle grounds have been transformed into the Château des Aventuriers, a family-friendly park with themed activities. These include a pirate route, a dinosaur trail, inflatable slides and puzzle-based exploration. The park also contains prehistoric menhirs and more recent garden features.

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