Experiences
Romantic Escape
DREAMY GETAWAY
Are you dreaming of a romantic escape ?
For a weekend for two, treat yourselves to a dreamlike getaway in a fairytale château among the Loire Valley castles.
From your very first steps, you will be captivated by the enchanting power of flowers in the fifteen gardens, all awarded the prestigious “Remarkable Garden” label. The Garden of Love Potions, with its roses and other beneficial plants, will leave a lasting impression. It is said that, in the past, these flowers were used in the making of love potions. Today, they awaken emotions within us through a kind of secret alchemy.
The Hôtel du Rivau welcomes you to an intimate and refined setting, listed as a Historic Monument, for a stay imbued with serenity. Here, the journey is also aesthetic: each room is a private gallery where contemporary art blends elegantly with period furniture, creating a décor that is both noble and distinctly modern.
A gourmet dinner at the Secret Garden is the perfect prelude to your timeless night. In a setting of roses, Chef Antoine Lopez reimagines the classics of the Loire Valley, adding a touch of fantasy with edible flowers from the garden.
Gardens and Blooming
Perfumed Rose Conservatory
Gourmet Restaurant Jardin Secret
Hotel and French Art of Living
Weddings
Events Calendar
Where can I see the Rivau rose collection?
The 512 varieties of roses from the Conservatory of Perfumed Roses of Rivau can be admired throughout the different gardens during your visit. The 1,600 rose bushes in this unique rose collection in France — including old roses, modern varieties, ramblers, and English roses — blend harmoniously with the many flowering plants in the estate’s fifteen themed gardens.
The Fairy Path is edged with highly fragrant Gallica roses. The Garden of Love Potions immerses you in the imaginary world linking roses to potions and spells. The Secret Garden delights visitors with its checkerboard of English roses. The Little Thumbling Garden enchants with its yellow rose bushes, while the orchard trees in the Garden of Paradise surprise you with climbing roses…
Is Château du Rivau a suitable place for a marriage proposal?
Château du Rivau, with its enchanted gardens, its Garden of Love Potions, and its fairytale atmosphere, offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable marriage proposal. The estate also hosts weddings and receptions in its historic spaces.
How much time should I allow to visit the gardens and the château?
We recommend allowing at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully appreciate the many facets of Rivau, stroll through its 15 fairytale gardens, and visit its five furnished rooms.
How can I book a table at the gourmet restaurant?
You can book directly via our website, or by contacting the restaurant at +33 6 58 95 96 92 or by email at jardinsecretrivau@gmail.com. Reservations are required.
The Jardin Secret is open from April 1st to November 1st, 2026 :
– Evenings from Wednesday to Friday (7:00 pm to 9:30 pm)
– Lunch and dinner from Saturday to Sunday (12:00 pm to 1:30 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm)
Its setting is perfect for a romantic and timeless experience.
Can I walk alone in the Château du Rivau gardens during a hotel stay?
Yes, hotel guests benefit from privileged access to the fifteen gardens, all classified as “Remarkable Gardens.” Walking through the gardens at sunrise or sunset, away from daytime visitors, is one of the most memorable experiences of a stay. In the evening, the illuminated historic buildings — especially the keep and its machicolations — create a truly magical atmosphere.
Can I stay at the hotel with my dog?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the hotel.