Château de Valmer Christmas Market

A Christmas Market in a Renaissance Wine Setting

The Château de Valmer, located on the slopes of Vouvray in Chançay, opens its doors every year in late November for an exceptional weekend combining open cellars and a Christmas market. This Renaissance wine estate, whose terraced gardens are labeled "Jardin remarquable", offers a unique setting to prepare for the end-of-year holidays by combining heritage, wine, and craftsmanship.

The 16th-Century Troglodyte Cellars

The highlight of the event, the 16th-century troglodyte cellars, usually closed to the public, open exceptionally for guided tours led by Jean de Saint Venant, the owner of the estate. Visitors descend into these underground galleries carved into the tuffeau stone to discover the secrets of winemaking and aging Vouvray wines. Tastings and sales of Château de Valmer wines (dry, semi-dry, mellow, and sparkling Vouvray) complete the visit.

A Market of Artisans and Producers

The Christmas market brings together a selection of local artisans and producers offering original gift ideas and gourmet specialties for the holidays. Jewelry, ceramics, textiles, wooden objects, jams, honeys, chocolates, foie gras, and other Touraine delicacies are presented in a friendly and festive atmosphere. On-site catering allows visitors to extend their stay with a meal or a snack.

Gardens with Free Access

For the occasion, access to the five hectares of terraced gardens inspired by Renaissance Italian villas is free. Visitors can wander freely through the conservatory vegetable garden, the ornamental gardens, the 16th-century troglodyte chapel, and the historic park. In autumn, the gardens offer superb colors and views of the Vouvray vineyards.

An Exceptional Estate on the Vouvray Slopes

Château de Valmer is located on an exceptional site overlooking the slopes of the Vouvray appellation. Its five hectares of terraced gardens, inspired by Italian Renaissance villas, are the work of several generations of the Saint Venant family. The estate produces renowned Vouvray wines, cultivated according to the principles of sustainable viticulture on tuffeau and flint clay soils.