Château Villandry with its magnificent gardens

JL was not fond to visit it as we already had so many castles on our list, but once we've got there he got as excited as me about the beautiful gardens.  And he told several people afterwards that it is a castle to include on their list when they visit the Loire.  I went again with my mom last year.  With the weather much dryer it had a different look, but it is one of those places I'll keep on returning to.  If I had to live in that region it definitely would have seen me quite often.  With the forest above the château, with paths to follow, a play area for children, the different types of garden - you definitely cannot get tired of it.  The castle itself was not a royal castle, but it is great to have an idea of more 'normal' family life in a castle. 
It was one of the last castles to be constructed in the Loire valley during the Renaissance period - by Jean Le Breton, finance minister of king François I. On his arrival at Villandry in 1532, he destroyed the ancient fort that was witness of the defeat of Henri II of England in 1189 against the king of France, Philippe-Auguste.  Keeping only the donjon, he constructed a new castle in a U-shape.  Having been ambassador in Rome where he studied Italian gardens, he was the driving force behind the creation of an exceptional garden.
Like many castles Villandry deteriorated over time.  Thanks to a Spanish doctor, Joachim Carvallo, and his wife, Anne Coleman (from a very rich American family), who have purchased Villandry in 1906, the castle and its gardens were restored as they have devoted their time and passion to restore it to its former glory.  The castle and its gardens were opened to the public in 1920.
Be sure that you'll spend more time there than what you intend to!  And plan it that you can have lunch at the little restaurant at the entry before you access the ticket office.  They have wonderful vegetable juice and fresh, tasteful food with friendly service!

Above: we were a few weeks too early for the show that these patterned gardens offer during summertime when they are filled with colourful flowers. I've managed to get a photo on their website to give you an idea (the garden changes from year to year):