Château et Jardins du Rivau
In the heart of the Loire Valley, only 10 km from Chinon, a completely restored 15th century chateau with 12 themed gardens classed by the French Ministry of Culture as a "Jardin Remarquable".
Immortalized by Joan of Arc and Rabelais, Le Rivau was built in the 15th century by the illustrious Beauvau family, relatives to the kings of France. In 1429, towards the end of the Hundred Year's War, Joan of Arc came here to requisition horses for the campaign in Orleans as Le Rivau was renowned for raising war stallions. In 1442, Pierre de Beauvau, prime minister to King Charles VII, fortified the chateau by constructing the keep and the moat. Several medieval writers mentioned the beauty of Le Rivau, and in Rabelais' book Gargantua (1556), the giant Gargantua gives Le Rivau as a reward to his faithful Captain Tolmere. In the 17th century, the chateau was spared destruction by Cardinal Richelieu whose sister was married to Jacques de Beauvau, lord of Le Rivau. During the 18th century, until the French Revolution, Le Rivau belonged to the Marquis de Castellane, Lord of Villandry.
Le Chateau du Rivau has been returned to its former splendor after a 17-year restoration by the current owners, Eric and Patricia Laigneau. The restoration was awarded the Grand Prize of the American Friends of French Heritage and the Demeure Historique Grand Prix. The recent reconnection of the farm buildings and courtyard with the chateau now allows visitors to see this unique architectural site as it was in the 15th century. The medieval chateau, the wine press, and the farm buildings are all classified as Historic Monuments by the French Ministry of Culture.
The inner courtyard and principal rooms in the chateau may be visited by the public, along with the 15 acre-garden.
Prestigious receptions in the barn of la Toison d'Or can be organised and entirely illuminated by candles.
The service can be provided by waiters in medieval garments.
Dining for up to 500 people, of which 200 may be seated in the contiguous winery.
The excellent acoustic allows brillant parties.
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