Sleeping Beauty's Castle [DLP]

Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant or The Castle of the Sleeping Beauty is the archetypal interpretation of a castle, one we instantly recognise from the pages of any storybook or from early Disney movies, such as the animated classic Sleeping Beauty. The design is based on the illustrations from the 17th century edition of 'Les Tres Riches Heures du Duc de Berry' (The Very Rich Hours of the Duke of Berry).

The building rises 149ft (45.5m) above the moat. A technique known as 'forced perspective' has been employed to give an illusion of even greater height. The pink walls are topped by 16 whimsical ornamental turrets of subtle sea-blue tiles. Pennants, weather vanes and golden finials adorn the roofline; creepers hang from the walls with enticing stairways leading to the central tower. Visitors can enter the castle by the drawbridge, or from the side by the wishing well (Le Puits Magique); don't forget to wish!

Travel below the castle by a set of steps and you will come upon the dungeon. This is where you will find the protector of the castle in the form of Merlin's Dragon. So if you do pay him a visit becareful not to disturb him while he's sleeping. You'll soon find out what I mean!