Must-see festival and permanent gardens at Chaumont-sur-Loire, plus what changes through the season and how to plan your route.
Chaumont-sur-Loire combines temporary themed festival gardens with permanent and long-term installations across the grounds. For the broader visiting overview, start with the International Garden Festival visitor guide.
The themed festival gardens
The temporary gardens are the core of the festival. They change each year and are designed to be experienced from within, often using planting, structure, and narrative to interpret a theme.
Permanent and long-term gardens
Alongside the annual plots, the site includes gardens and landscape works that remain in place longer. These provide a more stable counterpoint to the experimental festival route and can be valuable for repeat visitors.
Art and landscape integration
Many garden areas sit alongside contemporary art installations. This blend of landscape and art is a defining feature of the Chaumont-sur-Loire experience.
Seasonal highlights
- Spring: fresh planting and emerging forms
- Summer: denser planting and peak colour
- Autumn: stronger textures and warmer tones
If you want to translate festival ideas into practical concepts, see garden design ideas inspired by Chaumont-sur-Loire. For background on how the festival developed, see the festival history.
Frequently asked questions
Are the same gardens on display every year?
No. The themed festival gardens change every year, while permanent and long-term installations remain for longer.
How many gardens are there to see?
Each edition usually includes several dozen temporary gardens, alongside permanent garden and landscape installations across the grounds.
Do you need specialist knowledge to enjoy the gardens?
No. The gardens are designed to be enjoyed visually and experientially, whether or not visitors have a background in design.