French Castles
France is the very definition of history, elegance, culture. Nowhere does heritage with such inimitable flair, be it culture, architecture or gastronomy. And when it comes to history, there’s no better way to delve into the past than by visiting the castles here. Relics and reminders of the country’s remarkable history are at every turn, bearing witness to a richly embroidered past, tumultuous times and regal splendour. There are chateaux all over the country, from different eras and of different styles; from early settlements and fortresses built for feuds through to fairytale castles designed for splendour and sparkle.
Read on for a bitesize history lesson and our pick of just some of castles that should be on your list for a sightseeing trip to France.
History of French Castles over Time
As far back as the 9th century, lords built wooden castles to protect themselves from the Vikings. Wooden lookout towers were built on a hill and surrounded by wooden fencing.
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Our region-by-region guide of the best castles to visit in France
Starting up north in Brittany, we take you round the country on a tour of the chateaux you won’t want to miss.
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Sélection
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Spirit of Loire Valley
Uniquely situated in a vast park bordering the Loire and the Vienne rivers, the Spirit of Loire Valley chateau overlooks a charming village and dominates the Loire. This historic building provides sumptuous views overlooking the terraces
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Un Chateau de Reve
In a pastoral country setting in the heart of an estate comprised of meadows and woodland, Un Château de Rêve looks forward to welcoming you for an outstanding stay between La Baule and Nantes. This is a superb classical chateau dating from the 18th century, located in grounds surrounded by moats which have today been filled in and planted.
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Un Chateau Secret
Un Château Secret is a seaside luxury villa for rent in Charente-Maritime with a pool. This beautiful authentic property has been thoughtfully renovated and offers large either shared or private spaces indoors, a beautiful garden and a heated pool outdoors. Shops and restaurants are reachable on foot.
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Pure Luxury Normandy
Enjoy the grandeur and noble elegance of this French castle for rent for a very special Normandy experience! This immense chateau is set in 50 hectares of immaculate grounds and offers premium amenities. With Pure Luxury Normandy, ChicVillas offers you the promise of an unforgettable stay in a region steeped in history.
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Pearl of Provence
This sumptuous turreted chateau is the last word in luxury. Set against the undulating landscape of sunny, slow-paced Provence, it offers a magical backdrop for a luxury stay and promises uncompromising serenity and indulgence.
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Exquisite Provence
As its name suggests, this luxury chateau in Provence is simply exquisite. Intricate architecture and ornamental chandeliers hallmark the property's prestigious heritage, perfectly offset by a welcoming interior and up-to-minute facilities to make the discerning modern guest feel right at home.
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Un Domaine en Provence
Un Domaine en Provence: This magnificent 14th-century priory is a secluded retreat surrounded by lavender fields, rolling hillside and vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. A quintessentially French luxury rental property that promises sophisticated, slow-paced living at its finest.
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Chateau Heart of Dordogne
This alluring chateau rental in France's Dordogne region is infused with history and promises an enchanting setting for your holiday. Chateau Heart of Dordogne is listed as a historical monument and comes with an illustrious past - you will even have the opportunity to sit in Napoleon Bonaparte's chair!
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Chateau Heart of Gascony
Chateau Heart of Gascony is for anyone who has ever dreamed of renting a castle in France. This 14th-century chateau is everything a castle should be, combining historical features such as turrets, towers and grand fireplaces with modern-day luxury so that guests can live like royalty.
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Spirit of Dordogne
This exquisite castle is the stuff that dreams are made of. Enjoy a slice of the ultimate French lifestyle at this impeccably preserved luxury chateau among fine furnishings, turreted towers and a carefully curated interior that will make you feel right at home. Not to mention stunning views and a riverside location - perfect for exploring the Dordogne.
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