Château de Balleroy

Balleroy, France

Built in 1631 by the celebrated architect François Mansart (1598-1666) at the request of Jean de Choisy, the Château de Balleroy and its surrounding buildings are one of the first urban plans that inspired other chateaux, including Versailles. All the buildings were built from scratch. The chateau itself has retained almost all of its original features and it is because of this that it witnessed the major innovations of the 17th Century.

In 1970, Malcolm S. Forbes, owner of a major U.S. newspaper group acquired the chateau which was then fully restored and refurbished. Today, his four sons and his daughter continue his work.

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Founded: 1631
Category: Castles and fortifications in France

Rating

4.3/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Cheryl Richardson (2 years ago)
I really wanted to enjoy this place more but we were sadly disappointed. The house is going under renovation (this was not advertised on the website) you could still go inside but we decided just to enjoy the gardens. It was very quiet so we more or less had the grounds to ourselves which we enjoyed.
David and Mary Frampton (2 years ago)
Hong Nogc was our private tour guide of the chateau. She had an amazing knowledge of the history of the chateau. We would like to thank her and also to wish her good luck with her masters degree ??
Peter Durkin (2 years ago)
Friendly welcome, English speaking staff but only 4 stars as under 3 year roof repair so scaffolding around all building, there is a picture covering to show what the building looks like behind it. I do fully understand these type of works need to happen and sure it would be 5 stars when completed. Very impressive entrance, with road lined trees, stables and coate house. Small Tearoom, we had ice cream which were fair price. We went early on a Saturday and were only people there, they do guided tours of the house in French unless only English people there, which happened with us, you can do the tour with the guide but with handbook to read. You Can't go around the house on your own. Owned by American millionaire Forbes who created a balloon museum. Worth a visit.
nofacefashion (3 years ago)
Splendid one. I’d say it’s a must since you learn a lot from the guided tour. No pictures inside as it is privately held. Enjoy a tea in the garden afterwards:)
Susan Stone (3 years ago)
A stunning chateau worthy of a visit. Staff (only 2 young adults very polite) did their best to welcome and provide service by way of covering reception,tea room and tour guide. Downside tour was all in french, no audio for English only a phamplet which fell far short of the tour guides speech, rendering the tour a tad boring and making us feel very much left out. Also for such a grand building only ~7 rooms covered, wanted to see more and see how both servants and their masters lived. Restored and unrestored. So much to this beautiful lady and I feel we missed so much ?❤
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