The Estate Grounds

Of the 230 hectares comprising the Estate, about 40 are dedicated to the grounds, a “dignified”, pleasant space that forms a magnificent backdrop to the Castle. Composed of large lawns with wild orchids, it is home to many remarkable trees including Redwoods, Ginkgo Bilobas, Cedars of Lebanon and Plane trees. Its style is characterized by wide curved paths and the strong presence of water.

An eco-friendly vegetable garden and an orchard

Located behind the Castle's outbuildings, the organic vegetable garden of Candé contains a wide range of plants and flowers to enhance the visit: aromatic, medicinal, melliferous, edible flowers, and ancient vegetables abound.

You will also appreciate the new responsible crop techniques used, including permaculture, watering ollas and organic treatments. The ollas (earthen pots buried in the vegetable garden squares) allow simplified watering and saving up to 60% of water as well as permaculture squares. The Song of the Bees, a contemporary work of art, stands among the plants and fallow land as a reminder of the importance of bees and their hives, thirty of which have been installed on the Estate. Ten new hives are also due to be installed in the orchard.

The conservatory orchard, where thousands of heirloom varieties of apples, pears, Medlar trees, fig trees and almond trees can be discovered, is open to visitors. It is maintained by the “Croqueurs de Pommes de Touraine” Association.