Just over 2? hours by train from Paris lies a jewel of neo-Gothic architecture. Set amidst fields and surrounded by water, the Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers has stood proudly since the 13th century (and was rebuilt in 1850). The problem is that the building is now in ruins following a devastating fire in 1932. But a new life is in store for the building, which can now be visited.
This abandoned château looks like something out of a fairy tale
Just a few kilometers from Tours and therefore within easy reach of the capital by train, Château de la Mothe-Chandeniers is one of the region’s real nuggets. Passed from family to family, from splendor to neglect, it was in any case rebuilt in the style of the Loire châteaux in 1850. Borrowing from Blois and Azay-le-Rideau, the building was a neo-Gothic marvel, completely surrounded by water. In 1932, the building’s fate changed when a major fire broke out after the owner installed central heating. Despite the intervention of the fire department, the disaster could not be averted.
Over the following decades, and despite several attempts to save it, the château fell into disrepair. As the years went by, nature reclaimed all the ruined parts of the building, creating, paradoxically, a beautiful sight. In the various towers, the main courtyard and all around the building, trees have grown back and greenery now stands side by side with stone.
Previously taken over by lovers of urban exploration for its rather disconcerting and downright spectacular setting, the estate is now officially open to visitors. The good news is that the château’s renaissance has been underway since 2017! Launched by the association Adopte un Château and start-up Dartagnans, the project aims to save Mothe-Chandeniers from annihilation via a collective purchase. As a result, many heritage enthusiasts have contributed to the project, and the château is now officially the largest condominium in the world.
Since the work began, the estate has gradually been opened up for guided tours and even stays. Indeed, it is now possible to spend several nights next to the château, in purpose-built eco-lodges. The nearby Bar de l’Orangerie is also open to quench hunger and thirst.
📍Location: Château de Mothe-Chandeniers – 4, route de Roiffé, 86120 – Les Trois-Moutiers
💶 Price: free visits €10 – Guided tours €14 – More info