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Home / Travel / Hotels
Hotels

French Castles You Can Stay in During Your Next European Retreat

By Kendall Cornish on March 08, 2019

Don't just travel to France. Travel back in time.

© Sylvain Sonnet/Getty Images

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If you have an affinity for romance, royalty, or anything French, a stay at one of these castles is in your travel future.

From Michelin-starred restaurants and authentic Renaissance decor to sweeping views of rolling hills and on-site wineries, these French castle hotels have pulled out all of the stops to make a far-flung vacation as indulgent as possible. Each of these castles is, or was, a very real home to the most regal, royal, and––well––rich in France, dating all the way back to the 7th-century.

From region to region across the country, we chose the most luxurious and authentic experiences we could find to give you this list of game-changing castle hotel stays, perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, destination weddings, or photoshoots. While most of these castles have been reclaimed, renovated, or even completely redesigned, the authenticity of their exteriors is intact and the experience of staying in a centuries-old castle in the French countryside is as possible and enjoyable as ever (read: indoor plumbing). Surrounded by lush forests, vineyards, and even water, these castles will exceed your expectations and reclaim your typical European vacation.

 
Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

Château de Bagnols

Deep in the Beaujolais wine region sits the grounds of Château de Bagnols, a 15th-century castle transformed into a breathtaking hotel and spa destination.

At this luxury resort, you are able to customize your stay and optimize your experience by choosing from three different suite settings: traditional château, French countryside, and modern luxury. Suites from $230.

Courtesy Château de Mercuès

Château de Mercuès

With a Michelin-starred restaurant and Malbec winery on-site, this 13th-century château stay is the optimal choice for epicures. 

Follow your visit to the astounding 7th-century chapel on the grounds with a peek into the castle's winery and cellar. Suites from $215.

Courtesy Château de Beauvois

Château de Beauvois

Live like royalty in this traditional luxury château. Renaissance decor and 15th-century architectural wonders make this charming castle a truly immersive experience. Suites from $215.

Courtesy Château de la Treyne

Château de la Treyne

Set on the banks of the Dordogne river, this luminous 17th-century castle is the ultimate romantic retreat. The La Favorite suite features red brocade walls and a marble bathroom with a dazzling gold claw foot tub. Suites from $230.

Courtesy Château de la Flocellière

Château de la Flocellière

This regal hotel allows you to book entire 5-6 bedroom apartments on the castle grounds, making it a unique destination for a trip with friends or family. 

Take strolls through the medieval garden and wooded park that surround the castle or simply enjoy the privacy of a spacious and luxurious suite. Suites from $170.

Courtesy Domaine de la Tortinière

Domaine de la Tortinière

This turreted castle is an exhibition of sublime French architectural and interior craftsmanship. Each room combines modern sophistication and old-world charm, making it a design lover's fever dream. Suites from $102.

Courtesy Château de Fère Hôtel & Spa

Château de Fère Hôtel & Spa

Appreciate the staggering ruins just behind this stunning castle before treating yourself in the Hana Spa. This château is home to a luxurious bathhouse experience: a fusion of beauty rituals from both Europe and Asia. Suites from $212.

Courtesy Art Hotel Tours

Art Hotel Tours

This 4-star hotel's modern interior design affords your castle stay all the luxury comforts of the 21st-century. Dark walls, white furnishings, and mod lighting fixtures contrast beautifully with the castle's regal 19th-century exterior. Rooms from $158.

Courtesy Château Sainte Sabine

Château Sainte Sabine

The expansive driveway of this elegant château sets the scene for any special event. Teeming with wildlife, the grounds of this 17th-century castle are worth leaving your cozy room to explore. Rooms from $119.

pey09/Wikimedia Commons

Château de Gudanes

While not quite ready to book, this incredible mansion was built in the 1700s and is currently being renovated by its loving new owners. Follow this beautiful estate's journey back to life while you (and we!) wait for its floral-draped gates to open. Under restoration; prices to come.

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