A fairytale confection of machicolated sugar-white stone topped by a jumble of grey slate turrets, dormer windows and striped chimneys it comes as no surprise to learn that Ussé claims to be the inspiration for Charles Perrault’s 17thC romance Sleeping Beauty. The effect is enhanced by the deep green backdrop of the Forêt de Chinon and celebrated in summer-season son et lumière performances, but with the exception of the Renaissance chapel, tours are disappointing and the interior suffers from an invasion of deadly waxwork figures.