Chateau de Valencay

Napoleon told Talleyrand, his foreign minister, to acquire a suitable estate for receiving diplomats, and Talleyrand bought Valencay in 1803 with a mixture of state and personal money. Its combination of a huge round Renaissance keep-shaped pavilion with later classical wings is unusual, and inside the rooms are furnished in Empire style with pieces Talleyrand used. From 1808 the deposed Spanish royal family, including the future Ferdinand VII, were held here in comfortable captivity for six years. Talleyrand employed Antonin Careme, the most celebrated chef of the era, and the kitchens are shown as part of the visit. Valencay also gives its name to a pyramid-shaped goat cheese.

What you actually see

• The Empire interiors - furnished rooms from Talleyrand's occupation.
• The great kitchens - the working rooms of Careme's period.
• The park and gardens - formal beds, a maze and roaming animals.
• The Spanish apartments - rooms of the six-year royal detention.

When to go

April to October; the chateau closes over winter. Costumed events and a car museum in the village run in season. Spring and early autumn are quiet.

Honest expectations

It is well off the main Loire chateau circuit and needs a car. The site adds family attractions like a maze and animals which sit oddly with the historic rooms. Winter closure is long.

Nearby

Chateauroux lies south; Blois is north.