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The Château de La Ballue, surrounded by its remarkable gardens, is a must-see heritage site! Rebuilt in 1620, it has undergone various transformations over the centuries thanks to enthusiasts. Today, the Château and its gardens are a true benchmark in the history of XNUMXth-century garden art. So, are you ready to discover them?
The French gardens of the Château de la Ballue
Attached to the Castle of La Ballue, the Gardens have many surprises in store for you in every green corner. In the ten hectares of the park, you will find on the one hand a mannerist garden, recreated by the architect Paul Maymont, in the spirit of the XNUMXth century with its thirteen surprises along the paths; on the other side of the park a French garden, created by François-Herbert Stevens, which gives a classic look to the entire Château.
Walk in the Gardens of the Ball
THEtopiary reign supreme in this manicured garden! The play of shadows and lights transform the groves and flowerbeds into veritable sculptures. Pass under the arcane of wisteria leaning against columns of yew trees and get lost in the boxwood maze.
Then continue the route in the Moat Garden with contemporary plantings based on grasses and a botanical collection of boxwood. With more than 400 specimens, the collection was approved in 2018 by the CCVS (Committee of Specialized Plant Collections).
Finally, going down you will walk along a pond where ducks, swans and barnacle geese strut around. Very close to the chicken coop with collection roosters and hens which will delight the little ones and the guests of the five exceptional rooms who enjoy their delicious eggs for breakfast every morning.
When art goes green
If the creators of the gardens of La Ballue were inspired by thebaroque art with the Italian influences of Tuscany or by theclassical art with the lines of the French gardens, we find nods to Greco-Roman mythology through temples and labyrinths. sculptures by contemporary artists are scattered throughout the groves. Made of stone and metal, they await you in the corners of the foliage. Art is alive and well in the Jardins de La Ballue!
Events at Château de la Ballue
The Estate, a place of perpetual creation, welcomes various artists throughout the year artists in residence of contemporary creation. In addition, in summer you can attend a whole cultural programming : concerts, baroque opera, storytelling theatre, not forgetting the contemporary dance festival Wild Expansion ! The castle also opens its doors in September, during the European Heritage Days.
The Castle of La Ballue in Brittany, in Bazouges-la-Pérouse
History of the Château de la Ballue
Built on medieval foundations around 1620 by Gilles de Ruellan – a commoner ennobled by Henry IV for services rendered – the castle embodies the spectacular social rise of this “Farmer General of Brittany” enriched by arms trafficking. Its sober architecture, typical of the Louis XIII style, masks a tumultuous history, dating back to the Middle Ages:
- A fortress on the marches of Brittany : built at the end of the 10th century, the castle of La Ballue was a strategic fortress on the borders of Brittany, a buffer between the baronies of Fougères and Dol.
- Social advancement : Gilles Ruellan, a former arms dealer who became a Farmer General, bought the seigneury in 1615 to obtain the title of marquis.
- The revolutionary episode : in 1793, the manager Colin de la Contrie made it a Chouan hideout during the Breton Conspiracy.
- Industrial glassware : Having become national property, the castle houses a glassworks (1820–1866), the largest in Brittany, before its gradual dismemberment.
- Rescue during World War II : In 1939, La Ballue hid young Jewish and Catholic girls, then served as a refuge for the Moka college in Saint-Malo.
- EATING OUT : saved in 1973 by Claude Arthaud, who restored the castle and created listed gardens, welcoming artists and writers.
Sleep at the Château de la Ballue: treat yourself to a dream night
The guest rooms and suite
The lucky ones who have booked from a romantic accommodation in Brittany, you will enjoy a stay at Castle of La Ballue with its magnificent bedrooms located on the upper floor of the estate. By taking the remarkable off-center grand staircase, the five prestige rooms reveal all their charm: from drapes with period motifs to Louis XV woodwork, elegance and authenticity take you on a journey through time.
Un French breakfast
In the early morning, the song of the birds of the Gardens to wake you up, you will be expected in the Buffet Room for a breakfast that is as healthy as it is hearty. The opportunity to taste the eggs of the little hens of collection of the chicken coop of the Château, with Breton cakes et Norman apple juice. A delight with local dishes in a XNUMXth century atmosphere.
Sauna and swimming pool for a moment of relaxation
Are you more of a whirlpool spa or a Finnish sauna person? You can book therelaxation area to treat yourself to a moment of well-being. A unique moment to recharge your batteries in the heart of one of the most beautiful gardens.
Put on your bathrobes and slippers as soon as you enter the castle, then head to the gardens where this wellness hidden in a green calm. Test the elegant swimming pools Designed by utopian architect Paul Maymont. Heated to perfection and surrounded by deckchairs on a wide wooden terrace, what more could you ask for? (contact Château de La Ballue for the months when the swimming pool is open).
A tea room at the Jardins de la Ballue
You will like to take a glass of tea ?
At the end of the visit, enjoy the Tea Anna's tea room ! You can enjoy delicious cakes accompanied by tea with succulent aromas carefully selected.
Finally, the bookstore offers books specializing in landscaping and topiary art, while the boutique offers English-inspired objects to perfect your souvenir of La Ballue.
So, ready to visit La Ballue and its gardens?
Other gardens to discover in Brittany
Frequently asked questions about the Château de la Ballue and its gardens
What are the entrance fees to the Jardins de la Ballue?
| Pricing | Min. | Max. |
|---|---|---|
| Basic price – Adult Full price |
10,50 € | Not disclosed |
| Reduced price |
8,50 € | Not disclosed |
| Free |
0 € | Not disclosed |
| Subscriber rate |
35 € | Not disclosed |
What are the opening hours of the Jardins de la Ballue?
How to get there ?
What to visit in the surrounding area of Bazouges-la-Pérouse?
After your visit to the Ballue gardens, stop off at Bazouges-la-Perouse, classified as a Small Town of Character. If you're still thirsty for greenery, head to the Villecartier forest and its Récrénature leisure center!
Do you like castles in Brittany?
