Château Gaillard, Giverny

Castle near Giverny

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Zairon

Château Gaillard is one of the must-see places in Les Andelys, a breathtaking fortress dramatically perched on a chalk cliff high above the Seine. Built by Richard the Lionheart in the late 12th century, the castle was a marvel of medieval engineering, constructed in just two years and designed with cutting-edge military innovations. Its broken towers, ringed walls, and commanding position still convey the strategic power it once held.

This fortress is often visited on walking-tours of Les Andelys and offers an unforgettable blend of history, legend, and natural scenery. Whether you come to explore its ruined chambers or simply to admire the extraordinary panorama over the river and surrounding countryside, Château Gaillard captures the imagination from the moment you approach it.

History and Significance of Château Gaillard
Things to See and Do in Château Gaillard
How to Get to Château Gaillard
Practical Tips on Visiting Château Gaillard
Where to Stay close to Château Gaillard
Is Château Gaillard Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Château Gaillard
Nearby Attractions to Château Gaillard

History and Significance of Château Gaillard

Richard the Lionheart commissioned Château Gaillard between 1196 and 1198 as a defensive stronghold to protect the Duchy of Normandy from French expansion. Its location on a steep cliff above a bend in the Seine made it nearly impregnable, while its advanced design-featuring concentric fortifications, dry moats, and early examples of machicolations-set a new standard for military architecture in Europe.

The castle's most dramatic chapter came during the siege of 1203-1204, when King Philip II of France launched a determined assault. Despite its formidable defenses, the fortress eventually fell after a long and gruelling siege, marking a turning point in the struggle between England and France for control of Normandy. In the centuries that followed, Château Gaillard shifted hands numerous times, especially during the Hundred Years' War.

By the late 16th century, the castle was no longer considered strategically useful. Fearing its potential use by rebels, King Henry IV ordered partial demolition. Even so, significant sections survived, leaving behind the atmospheric ruins that rise above the Seine today. The fortress remains a powerful symbol of medieval ambition, conflict, and ingenuity.

Things to See and Do in Château Gaillard

Visitors can walk through the lower and upper baileys, exploring the castle’s impressive outer walls and defensive ditches. Interpretive signs help bring the history to life as you wander through the ruins. The inner bailey, accessible during the main opening season, contains the remnants of the keep, whose thick walls once formed the strong heart of Richard’s fortress.

One of the highlights is the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Seine and the picturesque town of Les Andelys below. The sweeping view reveals exactly why Richard chose this site: the river curves dramatically beneath the cliff, offering natural protection and complete oversight of the valley. Photographers will find endless compositions, especially in early morning or late afternoon light.

A walk around the surrounding paths offers additional vantage points and perspectives on the castle’s layout. Combined with Les Andelys’ church, riverbank, and traditional Norman architecture, it makes for a rewarding half-day visit.

How to Get to Château Gaillard

The nearest major airports are Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport, both offering convenient access to Normandy and Les Andelys. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Giverny on Booking.com.

Those travelling by train can reach the region via the Paris-Rouen railway, with the closest station located in Gaillon-Aubevoye. From there, taxis or local buses link to Les Andelys and Château Gaillard. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

If visiting by car, clear routes from Paris or Rouen lead directly to Les Andelys, with parking available near the foot of the hill or at designated areas closer to the site. A short but steep walk is required to reach the ruins. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Château Gaillard

Suggested tips: Wear comfortable shoes; the terrain around the ruins can be uneven and winds strong on the cliff top.
Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn for mild weather and dramatic scenery.
Entrance fee in Euros: Outer baileys free year-round; inner bailey and main ruins typically €3-€4 in season.
Opening hours: Inner bailey open roughly March-November; outer areas accessible year-round.
Official website: Check Les Andelys tourism listings for seasonal updates.
How long to spend: One to two hours depending on walking routes and photography.
Accessibility: Uneven paths and slopes make access challenging for those with limited mobility.
Facilities: Limited at the site; cafés and services are available in Les Andelys.
Photography tip: Capture the fortress from the opposite riverbank for the best full-castle silhouette.
Guided tours: Available during peak months or via local heritage groups.
Nearby food options: Restaurants and bakeries can be found in Les Andelys town centre.

Where to Stay close to Château Gaillard

For a stylish and comfortable stay near the fortress, Le Manoir de Clairval offers beautiful river views and elegant rooms within driving distance of Les Andelys. A convenient option in town is La Chaine d'Or, located near the riverbank with easy access to the castle. For a countryside retreat, Le Clos du Château provides a peaceful base close to local walking trails and historic sites.

Is Château Gaillard Worth Visiting?

Yes, Château Gaillard is one of the best places to visit in Les Andelys for history lovers, photographers, and anyone fascinated by medieval architecture. Its dramatic position, rich past, and atmospheric ruins make it an unforgettable stop in Normandy. The combination of river views and fortress walls creates an experience that feels both epic and intimate.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (1,847)

Château Gaillard at 29 Allée du Pont Moulin in Amboise is a restored Italianate castle furnished in period pieces, with an orangery, Renaissance-style gardens and walking trails through garden and forest grounds; visitors praise its quiet, well-maintained rooms and grounds, the chance to explore without crowds, friendly staff and owner-led tours, a small cafeteria, and estimate a relaxed visit takes about 60–90 minutes.

Jonathan Bekker

4 months ago

"A lovely retreat from the bustling streets. A great place to wind down, to relax some in the seats with the birds, or watching the chateau. Theinterior is actually quite charming too, and make sure to have a little taste at the cafeteria. There is definitely potential for expansion however, since some of the gardens are still a bit plain...."

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Ryan Wischmeyer

9 months ago

"This was a charming castle a little off the beaten path in the city. We were the only visitors in the castle at the time and it was nice being ableto freely walk around without having to navigate other people. The gardens are well maintained as well as the house. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area and have time...."

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Simon Howlett

4 months ago

"Lovely quiet little château with an important place in Scottish and French history. Wonderful restoration and certainly a worthwhile place to visit.Not too many visitors really enhanced our visit...."

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FAQs for Visiting Château Gaillard

The outer areas are free; a small fee applies for the inner bailey during the open season.

The walk is short but steep, with uneven ground in some areas.

Yes, dogs on leads are generally permitted in the outdoor areas.

Picnicking is allowed around the outer grounds, especially in the grassy areas.

Children enjoy exploring, but supervision is recommended due to cliffs and uneven terrain.

The inner sections close in winter, but the outer baileys remain open year-round.

Typically one to two hours, depending on walking pace and interest.

Limited shade is available; bring water on warm days.

Yes, and the views are exceptional.

Yes, especially during peak season or on heritage days.

Nearby Attractions to Château Gaillard

Seine Valley viewpoints: Several lookouts offering superb panoramas of the river and countryside.
Les Andelys Riverside: Scenic riverside paths with views of the Seine and the cliffs.
Collégiale Notre-Dame des Andelys: A beautiful Gothic church in the town centre.
Château de La Roche-Guyon: A dramatic château built into the cliffs downstream.
Musée Nicolas Poussin: A small museum dedicated to local history and art.

The Château Gaillard appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Giverny!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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