In the French formal gardens at Château du Grand Lucé

Château du Grand Lucé is one of the largest estates in Pays de la Loire. It was built in 1760 for Louis XV's intendant, on the outskirts of Le Mans in Sarthe. The statues dotted across the 30 hectare site are exact replicas of those at the Palace of Versailles and were given to him by the king. The property has been registered on the French Supplementary Historic Monument List since 1998.

The gardens at Château du Grand Lucé

In its day, the château welcomed visitors such as Voltaire, Rousseau and Diderot who would often stay to discover the wonders of its natural surroundings. With formal, exotic and kitchen gardens, a forest, pond and meadow, the estate employs a team of seasoned landscapers to maintain its old-worldly charm. They toil away, catering to the owner’s wishes, a well-known American interior designer.

The gardens feature decorative greenery and immaculately manicured lawns. © DR

The grand staircase and drawing room filled with valuable antiques are in themselves a step back in time. © DR

Refined 17th century decor

The interiors of the castle are just as luxurious as the gardens. The white tufeau limestone walls enclose 2 150 m² of space over two storeys connected by a grand staircase. In total, there are 20 rooms : two reception rooms with carved marble fireplaces, two dining rooms, a library and 15 decorated bedrooms. Another building overlooking the outbuildings courtyard features an exhibition hall, swimming pool, gym and chapel. There’s certainly enough to keep the well-heeled guests of this world entertained.

This well-appointed bedroom displays neo-classical style which suits it down to a tee. © DR