While we had visited the Château of Azay-Le-Rideau several times, the Château de l'Islette was new to us, recommended by the owner of the Château des Sablons in Bourgueil.

Located just a few kilometers from Azay (map), l'Islette was a delightful place to spend an afternoon. The château itself is relatively small, and you can wander and visit the chapel, the guardroom, the great hall, the bedrooms, and the dining room/kitchen in the tower. A brochure provides explanations of what you are seeing, and various objects remind you that for seven months of the year, it is a family home. From May through September visitors are welcome.

Château de l'Islette is known for being the site of the love affair between Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel in the 1890s. Rodin worked on his famous statue of Balzac while at l'Islette, and Claudel produced La Petite Châtelaine, one of her most famous sculptures. Reminders of the two artists can be found throughout the château.

The château was built in about 1530 and well maintained over the centuries. Today it reflects the Renaissance charm, while also incorporating 21st century lifestyles.

The château boasts extensive grounds and gardens, and visitors are encouraged to bring picnics, take walks, relax on deckchairs by the river, see the farm animals, and take a boat ride. There are also costumes of knights and princesses that children can borrow to enhance their visit.

Occasional evening offerings, l'Islette Under the Stars and Friday evening picnics, provide opportunities to enjoy music and shows, or just to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Château de l'Islette
9, route de Langeais
37190 Azay-Le-Rideau, France

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