A castle whose central structure dates back to the 16th century, with a few additions in the 18th and 19th century: bell-shaped towers, a small italian style chapel and an english park with 100 year old cedar, oak, laricio pine, and lime trees. The Comte Alec de Brosses, whose family has ruled this paradise since 1745, took over the family estate at the beginning of 2000 and gave up a career in finance to look after it all year round.

Four guest rooms and a country cottage from ancient times await the tourists passing through. A trip which might be extended if one shares the owner's enthusiasm for nature. His passion for plants led him to create an impressive arboretum where he planted 470 different species.

He is also the initiator of the « Rendez-vous d'Ailly» that is held every October on his property. A creativity in constant turmoil that can also be found in the famous Cornouilles jam made from berries that taste like gooseberry and grenadine, resemble small cherries, grow in the park of the castle and adorn the breakfast table of the castle when not being served with game and cheese. Eden's garden can be found at the doorstep of Roanne.

Contact and information: www.ailly.com
Château d'Ailly 42120 Parigny
Tél + 33 (0)477 62 00 39
Photo: Château d'Ailly

Guest rooms with les Gîtes de France Loire: http://www.gites-de-france-loire.com/

Suggested activities around the castle:

- Great news: the castle is located just 5 minutes from Roanne and consequently means a table in the gastronomic firmament: the Trois Gros.

- Wines, estates and wine-growers (for more details)

- Magnificent medieval villages, places full of character and monuments to discover: the Roanne is a treat for history enthusiasts (for more details )

-The massif de la Madeleine: monuments, sites and amazing encounters with bisons when exploring their territory in a covered wagon (for more details).  

-   « Les Rendez-vous d'Ailly » : Now every October since its inception in 2004. A golden opportunity to find rare tree species, old rose bushes and bulbs to plant at home and to meet nurserymen. A moment of conviviality, which also offers a plant kiosk, all kinds of activities with acrobats in the trees and hot air balloon rides and as well as a candlelight dinner in the cellar.