Beautiful chateau and grounds with a free audio guide which was very informative plus whilst we were there 2 playlets on the life of Tallyrand nd the house in French but most interesting More

This elegant Renaissance castle was donated to Talleyrand (famous diplomat and foreign Minister) by Napoleon. Talleyrand lived to see Kings of France, (and Spain in Valençay), the French Revolution, the Emperor, Louis Philippe ... The castle is a testimony of his life, honors and disgraces. Because as a foreign minister he had to host many important dinners, he hired Antonin... More

Valencay is in my opinion second only to Chenonceau as the best French chateau in the Loire region. Along with a magnificent building there is an excellent audioguide that brings to life the association with and history of Talleyrand - surely as important as Napoleon in French history - as well as an interesting insight into the history and role... More

This is an amazing place to visit - we arrived on a holiday weekend just as it opened and we were the only people going around. Very good audioguide explains the history of the chateau and insights into the life of Talleyrand - a very interesting character! ( We were expecting something a bit less interesting as the brochure makes... More

I paraphrase Napoleon Bonaparte who is supposed to have said the above in respect of his Foreign Minister Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord just before he bought Valencay for him in 1803 for the princely sum of 1.6 million francs. Talleyrand was a revolutionary aristocrat, womaniser, erstwhile priest, inveterate schemer and master diplomat who worked for four kings, one Emperor and... More

If you want to go to a wonderfully majestic Chateau, without the oppressive crowds - this is it! Great history, beautiful chateau, charming gardens, amazing views. More

It isn't one of the famous chateaux, but this was nevertheless an interesting home to visit. There are no hordes of tourist buses, so viewing the rooms and exhibits is a pleasant experience. Entrance fee is the same as Chenonceau: EUR 10.50. The chateau was occupied by the heirs of the Duke of Talleyrand until early in the 20th century... More