Perched on the banks of the Cher River, a tributary of the Loire, the castle complex boasts centuries-old towers, a chapel, gardens, and courtyards. Produced under the Touraine AOC, its wines represent some of the best of the region’s terroir. The Château de Nitray hosts guided tours and tastings; book ahead on the website to secure your place. Thanks to its proximity to Tours—as well as to UNESCO-listed châteaux such as Amboise and Chenonceau—the castle and winery are accessible to independent visitors.
Château de Nitray is a destination for wine lovers, as well as architecture and history buffs.
Individuals can book self-led tours of the château, accompanied by a brochure. Upgrades (including wine tastings, food tastings, and tutored introductions to wine-making) are also available.
The castle makes some bikes available to rent, for those who want to extend their visit and explore its sprawling grounds.
The Château de Nitray is 12 miles (20 kilometers) east of Tours, along the Cher River. If traveling by car, take the D976 or the D140; the trip typically takes around 30 minutes. Direct TER trains also depart from Tours and arrive at Saint-Martin-le-Beau, a 40-minute walk or 10-minute drive away. It’s also just 6 miles (10 kilometers) from both Amboise and Chenonceau.
The Château de Nitray has seasonal opening hours. During the high season—from June 1 through September 30—it’s open daily (apart from Sunday mornings) from morning until midday and, following a period of lunchtime closure, from mid-afternoon to early evening. During the low season, from October 1 through May 31, it is available by appointment and advance reservation only.
There are more than 300 châteaux in the Loire Valley, which are recognized by UNESCO for their extraordinary history and architecture. The Château de Nitray is just a short trip from many of the most notable in the region, including the Château Royal d’Amboise, the Château de Chenonceau, the Château de Chaumont, and the Château de Tours.
