Château de Brissac, Angers

Castle in Angers

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Manfred Heyde

Rising dramatically above the vineyards of the Loire Valley, the Château de Brissac is a vision of grandeur and charm. With its seven stories and over 200 rooms, this majestic residence — still privately owned by the same noble family for more than 500 years — stands as both a living home and a monument to French aristocratic life. Its towering silhouette, part medieval fortress and part Renaissance palace, makes it instantly recognizable among the region's many historic châteaux.

Inside, gilded ceilings, period furniture, and portraits of past marquises transport visitors through centuries of refinement. The Château de Brissac isn't just an architectural marvel; it's one of the must-see places in Brissac-Quincé and is a great day trip from Angers, celebrated not only for its history but also for its cultural vitality, including its private Belle Époque theater and celebrated vineyards.

History and Significance
Things to See and Do
Practical Information
How to Get There
Is the Château de Brissac Worth Visiting?
Other Sites Nearby

History and Significance

The origins of the Château de Brissac date back to the 11th century when Fulk Nerra, Count of Anjou, built the first fortress on this site to secure control of the Loire Valley. Over time, the estate changed hands and purposes until 1502, when René de Cossé, the first Lord of Brissac, purchased it. His descendants — the Dukes of Brissac — have lived here ever since, making it one of the few great châteaux in France to remain continuously within the same family for more than five centuries.

Throughout its long history, the château evolved in style and spirit. After suffering damage during the Wars of Religion, it was magnificently rebuilt in the Renaissance style. Later additions, particularly during the 19th century under Jeanne Say, Marquise de Brissac, brought a touch of Belle Époque glamour. Her private theater, a jewel of gilded stucco and velvet drapery, still stands as a tribute to the family’s love of music and the arts — a highlight of any walking tour of Brissac-Quincé.

Things to See and Do

A tour of the Château de Brissac reveals interiors of extraordinary opulence. Visitors can wander through stately halls lined with ancestral portraits, explore luxurious drawing rooms, and admire the grand staircase that rises through seven floors. The Belle Époque theater, one of the château's most enchanting spaces, evokes the romance of fin-de-siècle France.

Outside, the landscaped park stretches across vast lawns and shaded pathways. Ancient trees, manicured gardens, and serene water features create a peaceful setting for a stroll. Don’t miss the wine cellars — the Brissac estate produces excellent wines, including a signature rosé that you can sample on-site. For many visitors, this blend of art, history, and flavor makes the château one of the top attractions in Brissac-Quincé.

Practical Information

Best time to visit: April to October, when the gardens and vineyards are at their best
Entrance fee in Euros: Around €12 for adults; discounts for children and groups
Opening hours: Typically 10:00–18:00; reduced hours in winter
Official website: www.chateau-brissac.fr
How long to spend: 2–3 hours for the château and gardens
Accessibility: Ground floor and gardens accessible; upper floors via staircase
Facilities: Gift shop, wine cellar, restrooms, picnic area
Photography tip: Capture the château’s full reflection from the pond at the edge of the park
Guided tours: Available in French and English; included in ticket price
Nearby food options: Local bistros and wine bars in Brissac-Quincé village or a short drive toward Angers

How to Get There

The Château de Brissac is located about 15 km south of Angers in the Loire Valley. From Angers, it's an easy 20-minute drive via the D748 road. Public buses run periodically from Angers to Brissac-Quincé, but for flexibility, driving or cycling through the scenic countryside is ideal. Parking is available on-site near the entrance.

Is the Château de Brissac Worth Visiting?

Without question. The Château de Brissac combines historical depth, architectural splendor, and genuine warmth. As one of the best places to visit in Brissac-Quincé, it offers a rare opportunity to see a lived-in château that still reflects centuries of noble heritage. Between its glittering interiors, its peaceful parklands, and its celebrated wines, it's a destination that appeals to both history lovers and dreamers alike.

Other Sites Nearby

Château d'Angers – A powerful medieval fortress housing the magnificent Apocalypse Tapestry.
Château de Saumur – A hilltop stronghold offering panoramic views and a rich museum collection.
Abbaye de Fontevraud – A vast royal abbey and UNESCO site known for its history and artistry.
Musée des Beaux-Arts d'Angers – A treasure trove of fine art and regional heritage.
Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Park – Perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring the Loire's natural beauty, often visited on walking-tours of Brissac-Quincé.

The Château de Brissac isn't just tall — it's towering in spirit, too. With its blend of grandeur, artistry, and timeless elegance, this spot is one of the best places to see in Brissac-Quincé and a shining jewel among the châteaux of the Loire Valley.

The Château de Brissac appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Angers!

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