Gardens
The gardens of Château du Lude have been classified as a “remarkable garden” by the French Ministry of Culture. They lie between the château and the course of the Loir River and are arranged on terraces.
The estate includes a two-hectare vegetable garden laid out on three levels. It was designed in 1880 by Edouard André, and principles inspired by permaculture are applied there. A botanical promenade through the gardens features trees and shrubs originating mainly from China.
Culture and History
Château du Lude preserves an ornament of the Italian Renaissance that is considered unique among French châteaux.
The château was once visited by Henri IV, Louis XIII and the Marquise de Sévigné. The Daillon line became extinct in 1685 with Henri, Duke of Lude, Peer of France and Grand Master of Artillery.
Trails
The municipal Circuit de Cherré is a 16.6-kilometre hiking trail; the stated duration is 4 hours and 15 minutes.
The greenway starting in Le Lude town centre can be cycled towards Luché-Pringé and La Flèche as far as Baugé.
A paved greenway runs between Le Lude and La Flèche.
Market and Cuisine
Le Lude’s weekly market brings together around 30 vendors, including local producers, and offers regional specialities.
Seasonal preserves are prepared in the old vaulted kitchens of Château du Lude during the Journées gourmandes. The kitchens have been in operation since the 15th century.
Those who choose Le Lude, with its gardens, trails and markets, as a destination may wish to find a holiday apartment.
More location pages: Ruillé-Sur-Loir, Souvigné-Sur-Sarthe, La Chapelle Huon, La Bosse, Tuffé, Fresnay-Sur-Sarthe, Courgenard, Chemiré-le-Gaudin.
