Reviews of Chateau de Villandry

I went round the gardens last week and stayed three hours, having allowed two. I thought they were truly unique of all the gardens I have been to in the UK, Spain, and Italy. Also visited the lesser known and more compact http://www.lachatonniere.com/ and stayed at nearby Langeais where there is a superb medieval chateau. Our host (Shaun at www.langeais.co.uk) was most helpful.

(5.0/5)

This has been a long awaited visit, a dream come true, to actually visit this garden and marvel in the craftsmanship that firstly cinstructed the garden and now the horticultural expertise that keeps this magical place in such pristine condition is a pure joy. No amount of reading, looking at images can prepare you for the spectacle. It took my breath away, I really do hope that I can come back again one day.

(5.0/5)

Also Michellin *** and indeed, 'worthy of a detour'. New gardens are still being planted and the established parts continue to ravish the senses.

(5.0/5)

Featured on the latest Monty Don programme, 80 gardens around the world. Looks great and will try to visit when in Loire in August 08

(4.0/5)

Ohhhhhh Villandry!!! The most beautiful garden I've ever visited. I didn't "get" gardens until my first trip to Villandry in 1991. I've been back twice and am going again in May. It is so quiet there in early summer - and the smells! The roses, the box.....mmmm! It was the first time I'd seen ornamental vegetable and herb planting and it inspired me. Obviously I haven't come anywhere near matching it in my own garden (kids, etc), but I do use veggies and herbs to look pretty. Each "room" is yet another surprise - leave plenty of time, don't hurry round, enjoy the relaxing feel of the place. And do make the most of the creperie/ice cream shop on the way in - if it's as it was, the citron vert sorbet is magnifique and the crepes superb!

(5.0/5)

The most romantic of gardens. Spend time looking at the garden from the chateau and don't just wander around, stop and drink in the beauty from all angles. A must to revisit throughout the seasons. I envy anyone visiting this beautiful place.

(5.0/5)

These are exquisite topiary gardens. The boxwood parterres are extensive and can be viewed from various angles including from elevated viewpoints. The vegetable parterres are unique and display common plants in amazing geometrical ways. I spent three hours here and didn't want to leave. Best time to visit is September but all seasons have something to offer.

(5.0/5)

Amazing garden in the classical french style. A must see !!

(4.0/5)