Pagoda of Chanteloup
Centre-Val de Loire
The Pagoda of Chanteloup is a remarkable 44-meter tall Chinese pagoda built in 1775 by the Duke of Choiseul as a tribute to his loyal friends during his exile from the French court. It is the last remaining structure of the grand Château de Chanteloup, which was destroyed in the early 19th century. The pagoda features seven progressively smaller levels accessible by an interior staircase, culminating in a panoramic terrace with 360-degree views over the Château d'Amboise, surrounding forests, and the Loire Valley. The site includes a 14-hectare park with a large pond, a half-moon basin, and a small Chinese garden named after Fu-Xi, designed to invite meditation with its oriental plants and decor. Visitors can enjoy traditional wooden games scattered throughout the grounds and partake in boat rides on the pond. The pagoda and its grounds combine architectural folly, historical significance, and natural beauty, offering a peaceful escape with cultural enrichment at the heart of the Loire Valley's châteaux region.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during spring to early autumn when the gardens are in full bloom and boat rides are available. Climbing the 149 steps to the top rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Tickets can be purchased on-site; booking in advance is advisable during peak season. Families will appreciate the children's adventure trail with a mystery game, making it an engaging visit for all ages. Picnics are welcome in the spacious park, and local regional snacks and wines can be enjoyed from the onsite tea salon during warmer months.
Interesting facts
- •The Pagoda of Chanteloup is the only remaining structure of the Château de Chanteloup, which was demolished in the early 19th century.
- •The pagoda was built as a tribute to the Duke of Choiseul's friends who remained loyal during his exile from King Louis XV's court.
- •Visitors can climb 149 steps inside the pagoda to reach a panoramic terrace offering 360-degree views of the Loire Valley and Château d'Amboise.
- •The surrounding park covers 14 hectares and includes a Chinese garden inspired by Fu-Xi, an ancient Chinese cultural figure.
- •Traditional wooden games from the past are available in the park, providing a playful experience for visitors of all ages.
History
The Château de Chanteloup was originally built in the early 18th century for Jean Bouteroue d'Aubigny and expanded significantly in the mid-18th century by Étienne François de Choiseul, a prominent minister of Louis XV.
The estate became a magnificent country residence with extensive gardens and architectural enhancements likened to Versailles.
However, the château was destroyed by property merchants before 1830, leaving only the pagoda and the surrounding park intact.
The pagoda itself was constructed in 1775 by architect Louis-Denis Le Camus as a folly and a monument to friendship following Choiseul's exile from court.
It remains a rare example of Chinese-inspired architecture in France and a symbol of 18th-century aristocratic tastes.
Place Guide
The Pagoda Tower1775
A seven-level Chinese-style tower standing 44 meters tall, featuring an interior staircase that leads to a panoramic terrace with sweeping views of the Loire Valley and Château d'Amboise.
The Chinese Garden of Fu-Xi
A small oriental garden within the park designed to evoke meditation and tranquility, featuring traditional Chinese plants and decorative elements.
The Park and Pond
Spanning 14 hectares, the park includes a large pond with boat rentals, a half-moon basin, and walking paths surrounded by forest and gardens, ideal for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Contact
Phone: 02 47 57 20 97
