The fortress of Montbazon

Looking for a unique family activity that's sure to delight history buffs, especially those with an interest in the Middle Ages? The fortress of Montbazon is your ideal destination. Located just 10 minutes south of Tours Cityin Indre-et-LoireThis historic fortress offers a fascinating immersion in the past.

Perched on a rocky outcrop, it majestically dominates the Indre valley and stands out as one of the oldest military constructions in France. Francedating back to the end of the 10th century. Its keep, the oldest in France still standing, promises an exploration rich in discovery and emotion.

This guide will show you why Montbazon Fortress is the perfect choice for a memorable family outing, highlighting key activities and practical tips for your visit.

Why choose the Montbazon fortress for a family outing?

The fortress of Montbazon stands out for its fascinating history, rich culture and many entertaining activities. It's a destination of choice for the whole family during a stay in Touraine. Discover three key reasons why it's a must-see.

Discovering a historic jewel

Built in the late 10th century by Foulque III Nerra, Count of Anjou, the fortress of Montbazon is one of France's oldest military structures. Its keep, the oldest still standing in the country, rises to 36 meters and offers a breathtaking view over the Indre valley and the town of Montbazon.

This monument has stood the test of time, from Philippe Auguste's siege in 1205 to the Hundred Years' War and the Renaissance. Restored in the 19th century, it now houses a museum dedicated to its history and that of its illustrious occupants.

Activities for young and old

The Montbazon fortress offers a host of activities and workshops designed to give visitors a fun and interactive insight into the Middle Ages. Visitors can watch demonstrations of medieval trades and customs, admire working war machines, and take part in period games.

Children can try their hand at activities such as archery and axe throwing, and become knights of the fortress with an introduction to fencing. Santa's village welcomes the little ones in December, offering gifts, entertainment and the magic of Christmas.

An exceptional natural setting

Situated in the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Montbazon fortress enjoys a remarkable natural environment. Its wooded grounds are ideal for family walks and picnics. The proximity of the Indre River invites you to enjoy walks, bike rides or canoeing.

What's more, the fortress is an excellent base from which to explore the riches of the Touraine region, including the famous chateaux of the Loire, vineyards, picturesque villages and local gastronomy. A region rich in discovery awaits you.

Must-do family activities

Discover Montbazon Fortress through a selection of family activities designed to entertain, educate and amaze. Don't miss these three major experiences during your visit.

Introduction to axe and dart throwing

If you're looking for an activity to let off steam while testing your accuracy, then an introduction to axe and dart throwing is for you. This unique experience transports you to the heart of the Middle Ages, where you'll learn the techniques and safety precautions required to handle these historic weapons. Take on the challenge of competing against other visitors in a friendly competition.

Axe-throwing is open to children aged 12 and over, while younger children can try their hand at dart-throwing. The activity is included in the entrance fee, and all you have to do to take part is hand over a denarius to the activity leader.

Meet the craftsmen of the Middle Ages

Explore the daily lives of medieval craftsmen as you meet potters, basket-makers, blacksmiths, weavers, calligraphers, illuminators, herbalists and bardeliers in the fortress. Discover their expertise, ask questions and learn about their crafts. Leave with your own personal creations, such as a clay pot, leather bracelet or illuminated parchment.

To access the creative workshops, present a denier to the workshop leader or buy one at the boutique.

Animated tours: immersion in history

Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of the Montbazon fortress and its famous residents with our animated tours. Accompanied by a guide in period costume, discover the secrets and anecdotes of this historic site, from the dungeon to the underground passages.

Watch captivating dramatized scenes, from the medieval bath to the adoubement or siege of Philippe Auguste. These tours last around an hour and are included in the price of admission. They take place at pre-set times, available on the fortress website or at reception.

Montbazon Fortress - Plan your visit

Planning a family getaway to Montbazon fortress? Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit and get the most out of it.

When should you come?

The Montbazon fortress is open from April to September. Opening times vary: in April, May, June and until September 15, the fortress is open on weekends and public holidays from 10am to 6pm; in July and August, it is open daily from 10am to 7pm. Consult the detailed calendar on our website or at reception for more information.

Allow an average of 3 hours for the tour, although you're free to stay longer and explore at your own pace.

How much does it cost?

Admission is €12 for adults, €8 for children aged 5 to 12, and €10 for reduced rates (groups of 20, jobseekers, disabled people, students, on presentation of proof). Admission is free for children under 5 and for residents of Montbazon, on presentation of proof of address. Admission includes access to the fortress, the museum, guided tours, axe and dart throwing, and a choice of two creative workshops.

Tickets are available online from the fortress website or directly from the on-site ticket office.

How can you make the most of your visit?

For the best possible experience, follow these practical tips:

It's best to visit in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
Wear comfortable shoes: the fortress is perched on a hill and has stairs.
Bring a jacket, as temperatures in the underground can drop to between 12 and 14°C.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the fortress's wooded grounds or in the picnic areas.
If you prefer, the fortress tavern offers medieval specialties from Anjou and Touraine, including delicious fouées and hypocras, a medieval wine.
Don't miss our animated tours, where you can discover the history and secrets of the fortress through theatrical and humorous sketches. Timetables are available at reception and on our website.
Take part in creative workshops to learn about the arts of the Middle Ages, and leave with your own creations. Choose from pottery, leatherwork, calligraphy, illumination or waxwork. You'll be given two deniers on entry, valid for two workshops. Additional deniers are available at the boutique for 2€ each.
Test your skill at axe and dart throwing, included in the price of admission. Axe throwing is reserved for over-12s, but dart throwing is open to all.

We hope this information will help you plan a memorable visit to the Montbazon fortress. Enjoy an unforgettable family outing, rich in cultural and entertaining discoveries.

Fortress of Montbazon - Conclusion

The fortress of Montbazon is clearly an exceptional destination. for a family getaway memorable. This treasure trove of history will transport you through the ages, from the 10th to the 15th century, offering a fascinating plunge into the past. Fun and interactive activities on site will enrich your visit, combining learning and entertainment.

The site also benefits from a magnificent natural setting, situated in the heart of the Loire Valley and just a short distance from several other notable attractions.

So don't delay, make sure you book your visit online today and get ready for an exceptional family day at Montbazon Fortress. An experience you won't soon forget!

Montbazon fortress - FAQ

Montbazon fortress opening times and prices

The Montbazon fortress is open to visitors on weekends and public holidays from April to June, and until September 15, from 10am to 6pm. In July and August, it is open daily from 10am to 7pm. Admission is €12 for adults, €8 for children aged 5 to 12, and €10 for concessions. Admission is free for children under 5.

Activities for children at Montbazon fortress

The Montbazon fortress offers children a chance to immerse themselves in the medieval world, with animated tours, creative workshops and skits. Young visitors can learn medieval crafts such as pottery, basketry, calligraphy and axe-throwing, and take their work home with them.

Getting to Montbazon from Paris or Tours

Visitors can reach the Montbazon fortress from Paris or Tours by train or car. The fortress is close to a TER station (800 m) and a bus stop (200 m). Motorists should follow the D910 and park in Montbazon's north parking lot. The journey by car takes around 2h30 from Paris and 15 minutes from Tours.

History and importance of the fortress of Montbazon

Built in 991 by the Count of Anjou Foulques III Nerra, the fortress of Montbazon is a major example of medieval military architecture in France. It boasts the country's oldest surviving keep and illustrates the rich and eventful history of Touraine from the 10th to the 15th century.