A family visit to Château de Lavardens

Take advantage of a trip to Lavardens to visit its château, a magnificent 12th-century building open all year round. During its 9 centuries of history, it has welcomed distinguished guests and aroused a great deal of envy, which you're sure to discover. An impressive fortress, Château de Lavardens was attacked and partly destroyed, then abandoned before being restored. Today, it's the preservation and renovation association that allows visitors to discover this witness to the past, and its history.

A VISIT TO A TUMULTUOUS CHÂTEAU

Numerous exhibitions are held throughout the year at the Château, showcasing paintings, recitals, works in glass and santons, as was the case on our tour. Admire the collections installed in this beautiful stone setting, before continuing your visit.

Open from Monday to Sunday, the Château de Lavardens is open to the public for self-guided tours, or guided tours on Sunday afternoons for groups of 10 or more. Start with the video room, beneath a beautiful 17th-century vault held together by the sheer force of sand, lime and stone - a true architectural feat! The 10-minute film tells the story of the château, its development and restoration over the years. Listen to the excellent acoustics provided by the stones! The film also explains the owners' desire to transform this fortress into a beautiful château de plaisance.

The echo chamber is a real mystery! Its particular resonance preserves the slightest secrets, which will never be revealed. Take the test: if two people stand in opposite corners and whisper a secret, the others in the room won't be able to hear a thing! Bluffing, isn't it?

In each room, you have access to explanatory panels divided into two parts: one historical, the other architectural. These texts help you understand the construction phases and the historical context of each situation. Take the time to observe the superb floors, rough with beautiful terracotta tiles and decorations, and the volume of the vaulted, light-filled rooms.

A little effort is then required to climb the floors and landings. Don't forget to open your eyes to admire the evolution of the stones, walls and floors, witnesses to the château's history through the ages. Lavardens is like an open book, telling its story in its own way. Once upstairs, contemplate the 17th-century pavement, the only one of its kind in the world! Each room features a different geometric pattern, a beautiful blend of stone and brick.

EXHIBITIONS AND PANORAMA

Exhibitions are varied throughout the year. At the time of our visit, santons were in the spotlight, with over 15,000 on display! It's a real pleasure to observe the fairy-tale setting, where the santons are staged on their own or against a natural backdrop of sand, stone or vegetation.

Spring or summer weather permitting, climb the 36 steps to the open terrace, which offers exceptional views over the village and surrounding countryside.

Finish your visit with a visit to the boutique. You'll find the famous santons, crockery, local products, recipe books... Enough to make a memorable souvenir of your visit to Château de Lavardens.

We were amazed by the Château de Lavardens, a beautiful residence passionately restored by a local association. You too can discover this incredible place full of history! You'll need a good hour to explore the rooms, but allow more time if you want to enjoy the temporary exhibition and the view from the terrace.

Enjoy your visit to Lavardens!