European Heritage Days 2026 and World Espalier Art Days
European Heritage Days invites us to reflect on the theme “Heritage in Peril: Revive, Resist, Reimagine.”
The gardens of Valmer are dedicated to the restoration (or even reconstruction) of a built heritage that has stood the test of time since the 16th century, revived and reimagined over the centuries by successive owners. The botanical heritage has always had to adapt to climate change, socioeconomic constraints, and, above all, the test of time. This will be a special opportunity to unveil exclusive documents on the maintenance of these centuries-old terraces.
The World Days of the Art of Espalier celebrate this art of pruning fruit trees, which is recognized as part of France’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. More than eleven different shapes (vertical or horizontal cordon, single U, double U, palmette, merchant’s flag, etc.) are maintained and pruned by gardeners who have mastered this centuries-old craft. You’ll discover how to plant, train, and care for your espaliered fruit trees through guided tours led by the Croqueurs de pommes de Touraine.
“Photographic Heritage” is the second theme of European Heritage Days. Pierre, statues, fountains, moss, trees, flowers, insects, birds, the garden’s inhabitants… everything is beautiful! Enter the photo contest and create images that will become tomorrow’s photographic heritage. Check the rules on the Château de Valmer website.
This fall, come see how our gardens are holding up! An initiative of the APJRC, the Association of Parks and Gardens of the Centre-Val de Loire Region. This summer, the heat wave caused extensive damage to parks, gardens, and vegetable gardens. Some plants suffered, others held up, and some surprised us.
Discover how gardeners—the unsung heroes of the countryside—observe, protect, adapt, experiment, and share their knowledge. “Those Who Keep the Gardens Going” will welcome you and introduce you to the plants that have held up, explain water management in the garden, share their experiences, and answer all your questions.
On the schedule:
Friday, September 18:
- 2:30 p.m.: Guided tour on the theme “This fall, come see how our gardens are holding up!” with Head Gardener Guillaume.
Saturday, September 19:
- 11:00 a.m.: Guided tour on the theme “This fall, come see how our gardens are holding up!” with Head Gardener Guillaume.
- 2:00 PM: Tour on the art of espalier pruning with the Croqueurs de pommes de Touraine.
- 4:30 PM: Tour on the theme “Heritage in Peril: Revive, Resist, Reimagine” with one of the guides.
Sunday, September 20:
- 11 a.m.: Guided tour on the theme “This fall, come see how our gardens are holding up!” with the property’s owner, Alix de Saint Venant.
- 2 p.m.: Guided tour on the art of espalier pruning with the Croqueurs de pomme de Touraine.
- 4:30 p.m.: Guided tour on the theme “Endangered Heritage: Revive, Resist, Reimagine” with one of the guides.
The “Croqueurs de pommes de Touraine” booth will be on site, and self-guided tours are available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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All guided tours do not require reservations and are included in the admission price.
Heritage Days admission prices, September 19 and 20:
- Reduced rate for everyone: €10
- Free for visitors under 18