Visit to the park and gardens

Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil: A Journey to the Heart of the Gardens and History

The Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil , a true gem of heritage, offers an enchanting setting where the castle's architecture and nature blend perfectly. Located in the heart of magnificent gardens, the castle invites visitors to a peaceful stroll amidst history and natural beauty.

Schedules :

• July and August: from 10am to 7pm
• First Saturday of February - November 30: from 10am to 12pm, and from 2pm to 7pm or until nightfall
• Closed on Tuesdays in February, March, October and November, as well as in December and January

A Park with an Enchanting Atmosphere

One of the first things that strikes you when visiting the castle is the magical atmosphere of its gardens, where water and light blend to create a natural spectacle. The walk, which allows you to appreciate the interplay of reflections in the moat, first leads you to the magnificent bald cypress , a rare and majestic tree whose aerial roots play a vital role in preserving the banks.

Water is a constant presence in the park, where canals dug in the 17th century encircle the island and create magnificent vistas. The mill and the wash house , fed by an ingenious system of weirs, add a historical and picturesque touch to the landscape.

The Gardens: A Sensory Journey

The castle grounds are a veritable explosion of colors and fragrances, with themed gardens that invite exploration. The rose garden , located opposite the Henri IV Pavilions, boasts an impressive collection of 180 varieties of roses , from the oldest to the most modern, including the famous green rose, created in 1830.

As you continue your visit, you will discover a variety of spaces, such as the flower garden bordering the canal, or the sculpted orchard of pruned apple and pear trees. The meditation garden , with its boxwood and germander beds, its stone basin, and its wall adorned with a fresco depicting Saint Francis of Assisi speaking to the birds, invites reflection and serenity.

Finally, the cloister of the simples and the white garden , decorated with plant embroideries and white roses, add a touch of purity and delicacy to this idyllic setting.

The Château d'Ainay-le-Vieil and its gardens offer an immersive experience, where each step of the visit reveals a new secret, a new charm. A place where time seems to stand still, ideal for lovers of nature, garden design, and history.