Castle and Estate Menetou-Salon
About This Museum
Let's be honest, you've seen your fair share of French châteaux, but Menetou-Salon is something else entirely. It’s not a stuffy museum piece; it feels like a family home that just happens to have a moat and five centuries of history. The moment you walk through the gates, the sense of lived-in elegance is palpable. You're not just touring a castle, you're getting a glimpse into a way of life that has been carefully preserved.
Collection Highlights
Forget roped-off rooms—here you'll find Napoleon's own traveling camp bed and an incredible array of 16th-century tapestries that somehow still feel vibrant. Up in the attics, you can get lost among the vintage carriages and hunting gear, each piece with its own story. And for wine lovers, the cellars are a treasure trove dedicated to the estate's own renowned Sancerre wines.
Visitor Information
The best part? The tours are led by the Prince and Princess themselves or their children, who share personal anecdotes that make the history come alive. Afterwards, do not miss wandering the grounds—the parkland is perfect for a stroll, and yes, you can even book a wine tasting.
Architecture & Building
Picture a classic Renaissance château with those iconic pointed turrets and pale stone, but what truly defines it is that it's beautifully maintained and surrounded by a proper water-filled moat.
Contact & Location
Address: 18510, Menetou-Salon, Bourges, Cher, Centre-Val de Loire, France métropolitaine, France
Phone: +33 2 48 64 80 54
Website: Visit Website