Chateau de Vendeuvre
These gardens are the inspiration of the Count of Vendeuvre who has been influenced by the renaissance gardens of Italy and particularly their use of water.
There is a garden 'francaise' with parterres, water and water jets, an exotic garden featuring bananas and agavas, a lovely water garden with lots of different uses of water. One being a 'cascade des tortues' or 'tortoise waterfall' which is very charming.
There is an unusual utility garden with a lovely pyramid designed to store ice before the days of refrigerators (see below).
There are also two labyrinths. A relatively small formal labyrinth and also a large informal one great for children. Inside this labyrinth are several pavillions, pagodas and topiaries.
La Glacerie in the gardens of the Chateau de Vendeuvre
Garden Guide:
The Chateau de Vendeuvre is in the commune of Vendeuvre near to Lisieux in Normandy. It is south of Caen. The castle has been open to the public since 1983.
The garden is open for the Tulip Festival every afternoon in April 14h - 18h, and is open every day in May to September 11h - 18h and Sundays and bank holidays in October 14 - 18h.
Address:
Jardins et Chateau de Vendeuvre
14170 Vendeuvre,
Tel: 02 31 40 93 83