Château Gaillard, Giverny

Castle near Giverny

Les Andelys Château Gaillard
Les Andelys Château Gaillard
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

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.

FAQs for Visiting Château Gaillard

Is the castle free to visit?
The outer areas are free; a small fee applies for the inner bailey during the open season.

Is it difficult to reach the ruins?
The walk is short but steep, with uneven ground in some areas.

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

Can I picnic at the site?
Picnicking is allowed around the outer grounds, especially in the grassy areas.

Is the site safe for children?
Children enjoy exploring, but supervision is recommended due to cliffs and uneven terrain.

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

How long does the visit take?
Typically one to two hours, depending on walking pace and interest.

Is there shade?
Limited shade is available; bring water on warm days.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, and the views are exceptional.

Are guided tours available?
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!

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Visiting Château Gaillard

Hours:

Open Wednesday to Sunday (April – Oct),

Morning: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM​

Afternoon: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Price:

€3.50

Address: Château Gaillard, Les Andelys, France
Giverny: 20 km

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