Château Gaillard — Attraction in Les Andelys

Very neat place for a quick stop while driving in France. It's mostly ruins and it's a bit of a steep walk to get up there but if you are interested in medieval castles it's really cool! There are info panels at the base of the castle detailing its history and once you are up you can walk the grounds freely, they even had costumed role players, tents and fires going as if it were an active fortress. We didnt go inside due to time constraints but for a fee you can see the inside too. There is a parking lot at the top of the main hill but it's a little tricky to find (we ended up street parking and hiking up, but if you are not able I suggest doing a little research on the driving instructions). It only took us about a half an hour to explore the grounds and read the info which is in French and English. The view from the hill is...

Five stars is generous, but this castle ruin is well worth a visit if you are in the area (or close). The ruins can be visited virtually any time because only the inner courtyard is restricted; this is a good thing because the center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays - and for the entire low season, only opening in April. The castle is on a high bluff overlooking the Seine and offers spectacular views. The village below is also worth a look. It's best to park in the large (free) lot on the adjacent hill to the castle. The road near the castle is narrow and very steep and has only a few parking spaces. Note that the road is one way and once you begin down, you'll have to drive through the village and circle back to return...

Wonderful lost gem of a place just a short walk from Amboise.Peaceful and away from the crowds. The gardens and house are beautiful, take a picnic and spend the day. We went on a Saturday after visiting Château Amboise. A very dapper gentleman acknowledged us as he was cutting the lawn After we had explored we decided to take a drink on the patio. The same gentleman was there so we had a drink together. He was the owner and had restored the Chateau that had been lost for a hundred years! We spent a glorious hour with Mark and his lovely wife Sophie. They are both so enthusiastic,knowledgeable, brave and charming. What a lovely day...