Notre histoire

13th Century

The Templar Era

The earliest known structure on the château estate is a fortified 13th-century Templar chapel, which now houses the reception area and the L’Aile Templière cottage.

18th Century

The Renaissance Era

À la Renaissance, le château de l'Epinay se transforme, donnant naissance à sa partie sud, aisément identifiable grâce à sa déambulation, ses fenêtres à meneaux et sa pièce d’eau, destinée à la pêche des moines. La Fuye, ce pigeonnier du XVe siècle, surplombe toujours l’étang du château. À la fin du XVIIe siècle, le château subit de nouvelles modifications pour aboutir à sa forme actuelle. Ce lieu fut hérité par le jeune marquis de La Fayette au XVIIIe siècle, qui s'y rendait régulièrement pour ses fameux dîners animés et ses promenades à cheval sur ses vastes terres, totalisant près de 1600 hectares pour le Château de Dolus.

Vue historique du Château de Lafayette en Touraine

20th Century

The Modern Era

Between 1925 and 1930, the château was remodelled by the architect Philippeau, who added the northern wing and an eastern gallery. The west façade is perfectly symmetrical. The central entrance, reached by a flight of five steps, is surmounted by a window opening onto a wrought-iron balcony. The composition is crowned by a triangular pediment featuring an oculus. Stone dormer windows provide natural light to the attic.

21st Century

The New Renaissance

In 2021, the château was acquired by the Gognet family, who brought Château de l’Épinay back to life through an ambitious restoration project combining respect for its heritage with opening the estate to the public.
Their commitment once again revealed the remarkable historical richness of this exceptional place, while transforming it into a welcoming setting where guests can meet, stay and share memorable experiences.

In 2026, we had the privilege of taking up the mantle at Domaine de Lafayette.
Driven by a deep respect for its heritage and a desire to contribute to its future, we are committed to bringing the estate to life, sharing it with others and conveying the same sense of wonder we felt when we first discovered it.
We also wish to make the estate an integral part of the local community and to contribute, in our own way, to life in Touraine by welcoming projects, gatherings and events.