Chateau de Villandry Gardens

These formal vegetable gardens are one of my favourite places in France. On my 4th visit, my first as a wheelchair /powerchair user, I was relieved to see them labelled wheelchair accessible. In reality, they were a challenge. A few disabled parking spaces are provided, well signposted, on the road near the castle, next to the car park. Good access across road and through ticjet area. The main terrain is either gravel, or a lightly cobbled path. Mostly fairly shallow or medium gravel, so slow, noisy progress, getting occasionally stuck. One area of deep gravel was impossible to navigate, fortunately i found an alternative route. The cobbles varied, compared to many they are bearable, but bone shaking nonetheless! The accessible route (marked by a blue dashed line on the map handed out) included very steep sections - I only felt safe with my husband holding onto the back of my powerchair. I would have struggled to get round alone. I am able to stand and walk a few steps while others repositioned the powerchair, which helped when I got stuck. Obviously that wouldn't be an option for many wheelchair users. I understand that the chateau is accessible on the ground floor but as I visited only the gardens I can't confirm this. 2 disabled toilets, very clean. Friendly staff. I could only access the way out and shop by a side door but staff were quick to anticipate me. Shop very cramped. In a tougher scooter (according to the website a couple are available to borrow) it would be easier. But unless they improve the terrain I don't consider this easily accessible.