Chateau de la Brede, La Brede

This château dates back to the 14th century when it was remodelled in a Renaissance style. In 1689 it was the birthplace of the philosopher Charles Louis de Montesquieu.

He spent much time here, even editing some of his text "The Spirit of the Laws" in the library. This château has been immaculately preserved inside; the library contains thousands of books from Montesquieu's era and its furnished rooms maintain the décor you would expect from the 17th century.

It is located in 150 hectares of woodland featuring an English-style park. Guided tours of this important site are available.

Reviews

Visitor comments

"This is a fantastic place to visit, the chateau is atmospheric and holds it's history palpably. It is worth checking the times of the guided tour which is in French (with a booklet in English) as access to the chateau is only during the tour times but the grounds are beautiful to walk around and you can take some great photos of the chateau from the here. The small child with us was fascinated by the fish in the moat and something in the library (won't spoil it) but at 18 months, the tour may be just a little long. Having said that, we three adults thoroughly enjoyed our visit." - Trip Advisor
"Where great minds meet. You can still feel the presence of Montesquieu. I loved the library with its ceiling made of chestnut tree wood. The garden breathed serenity." - Trip Advisor
"The château is quite small but the guide do a good job in taking you back at the time that the great philosopher was alive; if you want a break for the wine-châteaux, this is a great little place to go." - Trip Advisor

When to come

You should always check the website before visiting. The chateau is open various hours throughout the year and you must be on a guided tour in order to enter the chateau. Self guiding is not an option here.

You are welcome to explore the gardens and surroundings un-guided, open from June to September from 10:00 during the weekends and every day except Tuesday in July and August. Open from 14:00 to 18:00 the rest of the year during weekends and bank holidays.

How to book

If you wish to reserve in advance or for a group then you can do so by calling the local tourist office on the phone number indicated above.

How to get passes

Tickets cost 12€ for the castle and gardens, or 7€ for each of them individually. Free for children under 10 years old, 4.50€ for children 10 to 17 years old.