The Chateau de Rivau at Lémeré (37 Indre-et-Loire, Centre-Val de Loire) is a unique blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture and is a beautifully restored French castle set in the heart of the Touraine and hosts an annual Loire Pumpkin Festival. Although one of the lesser-known Loire valley chateaux, it seems to come straight out of a fairy tale, thanks to its imposing keep, protective drawbridge and glorious gardens. You can still discern its original square layout, typical of a 13th century fortified chateau.
Each September the Chateau hosts a Pumpkin Festival (Fêtes de la Citrouille) –12 – 13 September 2024
With its pumpkin jugglers, its acrobats perched on fabulous marrows, the sculptures of pumpkins or the delicious tastings proposed by the chef, expert in natural wealth and nature cure, the pumpkin festival is a delight! Magicians and storytellers entertain the children in the middle of the fabled Rivau’s pumpkins.
There is also an Autumn Flower Festival at the Chateau Fête des Fleurs d’Automne : 22 October 2023.
Chateau also features 14 gardens including a Rose Garden, known for its fragrance as well as a Kitchen Garden, an Enchanted Forest, and a Flowery Meadow. The Chateau participates in the National Gardens Day (Rendezvous aux jardins) in June and European Heritage Days (Journées du Patrimoine) in September.
For more info on the Loire Pumpkin Festival see Chateau de Rivau at Lémeré, about 35miles southwest of Tours.
B&B accommodation in the Chateau – see Chateau de Rivau
There is a variety of accommodation available near Lémeré including self-catering, hotels and B&Bs such as the Le Clos de la Garde B&B in Anché, a traditional wine village.
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