A true benchmark in the field of gardens and landscape design, the Chaumont-sur-Loire International Garden Festival has been delighting visitors since 1992.
At the Festival International des Jardins: wonder guaranteed
The Festival International des Jardins is the place to be for landscape art and design. Every year for over 30 years, the world’s most talented landscape gardeners have been putting on a show for you at the event. Selected by a jury, multi-disciplinary teams combine art and nature to design contemporary creations around a common theme. It’s an opportunity for these artists to showcase their talent while rising to a challenge. Between ‘gardens of paradise’, ‘gardens of thought’ and ‘resilient gardens’, themes of yesterday and today, the Festival International de Chaumont-sur-Loire never ceases to surprise. Creation, poetry and nature come together to offer an unmissable spectacle for the curious and garden-lovers alike.
An unusual visit to the International Garden Festival
For an original way to discover the Festival, the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is inviting visitors to take a walk by night, in a poetic and musical atmosphere. You’ll be able to admire the lighting in the gardens, created using electroluminescent diodes that respect the flora and fauna. Between subtle reflections and shifting shadows, let yourself be carried away by the magic of the gardens at night.
The Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire: a veritable goldmine
Classified as a ‘Remarkable Garden’ since 2009, the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is bursting with treasures. The richness of this site lies in its triple identity: landscape, artistic and heritage.
The first, which makes the estate a must-see, is that of new trends in landscape design. After visiting the remarkable ephemeral gardens of the International Garden Festival, let yourself be carried away by the permanent plant collections that reflect the history of the site. From fragrant rose gardens to pastel tulips and splashes of colour, the diversity of flamboyant landscapes will dazzle young and old alike.
The second is expressed through its vocation as an Arts and Nature Centre. The Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is home to a multitude of surprising creations. You can admire innovative permanent installations such as the works by artist Quayola in the digital gallery, or those specially created by Sheila Hicks for the Great Staircase. Near the château, the Prés du Goualoup also reflects the spirit of art and creation that pervades the estate. Between greenery and contemporary art, let your imagination travel!
Finally, the third reveals itself through its château, stables and historic grounds. Here you can discover the history of the château and its owners, from Catherine de Médicis to the princely couple de Broglie. A visit to the historic flats will plunge you into the atmosphere of the stately homes of the 15th and 16th centuries. The magnificent stables are emblematic of the Chaumont-sur-Loire estate. Built in brick and stone, they were among the most sumptuous and modern in Europe in the 19th century.
Our suggestions for enjoying the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire
If you want to spend the day visiting the estate, there are several restaurants where you can enjoy a gourmet break.
Le Comptoir des Tilleuls offers a complete menu featuring carefully selected local produce. In a bucolic setting, take a seat under the trees in the garden to recharge your batteries over lunch.
Located close to the château, the Café du Parc welcomes you to its shady terrace for a snack, for example. From hot and cold drinks to sandwiches, homemade snacks and sorbets, the Café du Parc offers something for everyone.
For a refined experience, head to the Grand Chaume restaurant for dinner. Sheltered under a huge thatched flower, you’ll discover a place where nature and gastronomy come together. The chef’s natural cuisine will delight your taste buds.
As for the Grand Vélum, set in a pretty greenhouse, it invites you to sample the inventive and refined flavours of a creative cuisine inspired by the theme of this year’s Festival International des Jardins. The dishes are colourful and delicious!
Finally, if you want to extend your stay, the Hôtel le Bois des Chambres welcomes you in a surprisingly serene atmosphere. The result of the restoration of an old farmhouse, the rooms are open to the outside and invite you to relax. With floral arrangements and works by well-known artists, you’ll be immersed in the spirit of creativity that pervades the estate for one or more nights…
Your questions
How long does it take to discover the Festival International des Jardins?
To make the most of the Festival and its thirty or so gardens at your own pace, we recommend that you allow 3 hours for your visit.
Where can I park?
The Domaine’s main car park, located on the hillside (south entrance – rue des Argillons), is particularly suitable for people with disabilities and families with pushchairs. You can also park in the village of Chaumont-sur-Loire and along the Loire.
Can I book my ticket online?
Save time and prepare for your visit to the International Garden Festival by booking your ticket below.
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