Visit to the park and garden

The Château de Craon , with its park and gardens, is a place that invites discovery and contemplation. Nestled in lush greenery, this estate offers a true immersion in the history of the nobility and the beauty of classical gardens.

Prices and Opening Days:

• Opening of the Park and Gardens:
  • From April 1st to November 1st , every afternoon, closed on Saturdays.
  • Self-guided tour, 30-minute to 2-hour visit .

A Park Filled with History and Nature:

The grounds of Château de Craon are a true haven of peace, dotted with centuries-old trees, traditional gardens, and buildings that bear witness to the estate's past grandeur. Among its highlights is the majestic 150-year-old umbrella pine , standing proudly in the park, a symbol of the château's rich arboreal heritage, while young pines are poised to take their place, perfectly respecting traditional tree-growing practices.

The 19th Century Vegetable Garden and Greenhouses:

The carefully restored kitchen garden features large 19th-century greenhouses that were once used to cultivate delicate plants and fruit trees. The orangery , located at the far end of the garden, still protects these species from the harsh winters. The kitchen garden also boasts espaliered fruit trees , including pear and apple trees over 100 years old, a rare and exceptional find for this type of pruned tree.

The Stables and the Equestrian Past:

The castle grounds immerse you in the history of the 19th-century stables , which once housed a cavalry of 16 horses. The visionary Marquis d'Armaillé aspired to create a nationally renowned stud farm. Today, these stables have been transformed to host events such as weddings and meetings .

The French-style garden:

Another treasure of the park is the French formal garden , created in 1930 by the landscape architect Redont. It was commissioned by the Marquise de Champagné's second husband , Fortuné D'Andigné, and beautifully complements the neoclassical château . Although the estate had long been influenced by English landscape gardens , the addition of this French formal garden adds a touch of elegance and enriches the entire estate with impressive vistas.

The Oudon River:

The Oudon River , a tributary of the Mayenne, flows through the park for 1.5 km, adding to the estate's natural appeal. With its picturesque bridges and cool banks , it offers moments of relaxation and tranquility, especially on hot summer days. The river-fed irrigation system also helps keep the lawns green throughout the season.

A Walk Through the Heart of History:

The Château de Craon invites you on a journey through time, a blend of architecture, nature, and history. The estate, with its formal gardens and historic buildings, is an ideal destination for history and botany enthusiasts. Stroll along the paths, admire the breathtaking views, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this unique place.