Certified as one of the 'Most beautiful villages in France', Montrésor is a charming destination for lovers of both history and photography! Its picturesque narrow streets and lush green valley offer some remarkable views of the village's rich heritage.
Along the picturesque lanes, the village unveils its riches, its tiled roofs weathered by time, its gardens, and 'the legend of the lizard'. The view along the poplar lined, landscaped ‘Balcons de l'Indrois’ pathway reveals the unique charm of this small characterful village. Montrésor is a village that deserves its name, literally meaning 'my treasure', and it lives up to the hype!
On its rocky spur, contemplating its own reflection in the calm waters of the River Indrois, the must-see Renaissance chateau of Montrésor seems like it has come straight out of a fairy tale. Restored in the 19th century by the Polish Count Xavier Branicki, the chateau has retained its old-fashioned charm and enchanting atmosphere. Inside, time seems to stand still. Entirely decorated with its original 19th century furniture and boasting an astonishing collection of works of art, gold and silverware from the kings of Poland, as well as antique books, the château plunges us into the private world of the family to which it has belonged since the Second Empire.
The small drawing room is home to a painting by Veronese, in which a self-portrait of the master is hidden in a fold of material. The first floor can be reached via a staircase that was exhibited at the 1855 World Fair. Finally, in the grand salon, there is a piano on which Chopin composed a waltz for Princess Branicka. Wherever you look & with every breath you take there is something to admire!
The castle’s park is ideal for a romantic stroll.
Founded in the 16th century by Imbert de Bastarnay as a final resting place for his family, it is home to three white alabaster recumbent effigies. This collegiate church also houses an 'Annunciation' by Philippe de Champaigne (17th century), as well as 16th century paintings from the Italian school―from the collection of Cardinal Fesch, the uncle of Napoleon I. A rare relic of Saint John Paul II can also be found here.
Striking because of its mansard roof and wooden structure, the Halle aux Cardeux housed the wool market until the 19th century. Here, you can discover the art of glass and light, via a beautiful exhibition of ‘Gemmail’.
This bucolic riverside stroll offers a panoramic view of the village, the fortress, the chateau, the collegiate church, and the wash house. An information leaflet providing history about the monuments as well as the fauna and flora of the Indrois valley is available from local tourist offices.
Summer suggestion: The riverside stroll is lit every evening from 10pm to midnight for the event 'Soirées Légendaires' during July and August.
Download the Tourist map of Montrésor
