20 Dreamy Château Hotels in France Where You Can Sleep in Style

Drive through the French countryside and you’ll soon be enamored by the sight of historic royal residences punctuating the landscape. From Champagne to the Côte d’Azur, many of these castles have been constructed, ruined, and rebuilt, many times over.

And nowadays, some of the most beautiful châteaux throughout the country have been reinvented once again. These stately homes that were once reserved for the nobility, have been lovingly restored and converted into hotels, allowing you the unique freedom to experience the life of the aristocracy.

These castle hotels in France range from indulgent luxurious lodgings, right through to surprisingly affordable B&B’s and family-friendly apartments – so everybody can experience the royal treatment on offer when you stay in a château in France.

We’ve scoured the country to find the most beautiful accommodation with outstanding service so you can start planning your château holidays in France.

Château Les Carrasses - one of the most stunning Chateau Hotels in France

Where to Find Château Accommodation in France

We’ve plotted the most beautiful château hotels of France on the map below to make your holiday planning easier. Simply click on the markers to bring up the details of each French château hotel.

Alternatively, if you already have your heart set on staying in a château hotel in the Loire Valley, or perhaps a romantic castle in the South of France, you can jump directly to the relevant section in the table of contents below.

Châteaux in the South of France

From the medieval city of Carcassonne to the Southern French Alps, the South of France is home to some of the most beautiful château hotels in France. Discover them below.


CHÂTEAU LES CARRASSES

19th-century family-friendly château hotel with a pool, tennis courts and bike hire in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France.

Château Les Carrasses, built at the end of the 19th century, has everything you could wish for in a castle hotel. Thick, stone walls and sharp, pointed towers evoke a long-lost past, and the beautiful interiors add a note of luxury.

However, this castle offers a more laid-back experience than some of its five-star counterparts, making this a particularly family-friendly retreat. Guests may choose between self-catering apartments in the estate and rooms in the main castle, allowing for greater flexibility and accommodating groups up to eight with ease.

Château Les Carrasses - one of the most stunning Chateau Hotels in France
Photo Credit – Château Les Carrasses

Restaurant at Château Les Carrasses

The restaurant at Château Les Carrasses offers seasonal Mediterranean cuisine, producing delicious, fresh dishes, and catering to a local crowd. Restaurant meals and pizzas are also available to take away.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the atmospheric port of Capestang
  • Spend a day by the sea at one of the region’s beautiful beaches
  • Cycle along the Canal du Midi

Key events during the year

How to get to Château Les Carrasses

The closest town to this luxury hotel in the south of France is Béziers (19km). The closest international airports are Béziers Cap d’Agde Airport (BZR) and Montpellier (MPL).


CHÂTEAU DE FONSCOLOMBE 

18th-century château hotel in Provence with pool & wellness centre, set within grandiose grounds at the gate of the Luberon.

A luxurious garden complete with fountains, stone sculptures and an organic vineyard set the scene for Château de Fonscolombe. This exclusive estate tucked into the bucolic countryside north of Aix-en-Provence was once the home of French nobility. And after a thoughtful and thorough 18-month renovation, has been transformed into an elegant 50-room hotel.

Savour the opulent surroundings, seek shade under a cedar tree planted by the Queen of England, and enjoy the modern comforts on offer in this 5-star estate.

Château de Fonscolombe is one of the best chateau hotels in France
Photo credit: Château de Fonscolombe
Château de Fonscolombe is one of the best chateau hotels in France
Photo credit: Château de Fonscolombe

L’Orangerie Restaurant at Château de Fonscolombe

Treat yourself to a meal on the terraces of L’Orangerie during your stay and you’ll be won over by the simple yet scrumptious flavours. Specialising in Provençal cuisine with a creative twist, L’Orangerie sources only the best local and seasonal products for its menu – including produce grown right on the estate! 

Key attractions & things to do near the château

Key events during the year

  • Festival d’Aix-en-Provence (international music festival) – July
  • Piano festival in La Roque d’Antheron – July/August 
  • Truffle festival in Avignon – February

How to get to Château de Fonscolombe

The closest city to this château in the south of France is Aix-en-Provence (18km). The closest international airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS).


CHÂTEAU SAINT-MARTIN

12th century Provence château with pool, spa, tennis courts, and Michelin-starred onsite restaurant.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the Côte d’Azur by retreating to the hills of Provence and this peaceful, luxurious château. Originally a 12th century crusader fortification, Château Saint-Martin boasts period architecture with modern, stylish interiors, a Michelin-starred restaurant and an award-winning spa.

Set in 34 acres of peaceful, verdant grounds with beautiful olive groves and fantastic views over the Provençal landscape, this castle offers a blissful retreat from the world.

Château Saint-Martin is one of the best chateaux hotels in France
Photo credit: Château Saint-Martin & Spa
Château Saint-Martin is one of the best chateaux hotels in France
Photo credit: Château Saint-Martin & Spa

Le Saint-Martin Restaurant

Château Saint-Martin is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant perched on a beautiful terrace with panoramic views stretching to the Còte d’Azur. Emphasis is placed on light, deceptively simple dishes that allow the fine Provençal flavours and ingredients to shine.

In the summer months, an additional restaurant (L’Oliveraie) opens for wood-fired pizzas and grills.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the stunning markets in the historic village of Vence
  • Visit the glassblowing museum in Biot
  • Go cycling/hiking/horse riding at the Col de Vence

Key events during the year

  • Nice Carnival – February
  • Vence ‘Nuits du Sud’ World Music Festival – July

How to get to Château Saint-Martin

The closest town to this château in the south of France is Nice (24km). The closest international airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE).


CHÂTEAU LES OLIVIERS DE SALETTES

16th century château hotel in Provence with outdoor pool, spa, cooking courses and wine tasting.

This luxurious chateau hotel in the Drôme region of Provence has been carefully and tastefully restored by the current owners and offers a slice of luxury away from the beaten tourist path.

With an impressive, tree-lined drive, imposing architecture and glorious views over the parkland, this atmospheric castle is suitable for couples and families, offering plenty of local activities.

This is the ideal summer retreat, where you can spend days lounging by the pool and nights sampling delicious local cuisine.

Château Les Oliviers de Salettes - Castle hotel in France
Photo credit: Château Les Oliviers de Salettes

Restaurant at the Château les Oliviers de Salettes:

The food at Château les Oliviers de Salettes is a particular highlight. The restaurant serves up the finest Provençal produce, carefully transformed into delicious, mouth-watering dishes. The lunchtime ‘market’ menu also offers excellent value.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the historic town of Montélimar and its medieval castle (and sample the famous nougat)
  • Hiking and outdoor activities in the Drôme Provençale
  • Browse the markets in the town of Nyons (for herbs, olives and lavender)

Key events during the year

  • Lavender Parade in Valréas – August

How to get to Château les Oliviers de Salettes

The closest town to this château hotel in France is Montélimar (20km). The closest international airports are Avignon-Provence Airport (AVN) and Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS).


HÔTEL DE LA CITÉ CARCASSONNE 

 12th century château hotel in the South of France with outdoor pool & spa.

The medieval city of Carcassonne is a breath-taking reminder of France’s medieval past, perched high on a hill with 800-year-old fortifications. The entire city is itself a fortress, and the Hôtel de la Cité, one of only two hotels inside the city walls, offers a truly unique chateau hotel experience.

This beautiful hotel is tastefully decorated and fully equipped for a luxurious city break, complete with 12th-century tower, an award-winning spa and an excellent restaurant. What’s more, a trip here allows guests to appreciate the stunning architecture of Carcassonne after all of the tourists have gone home for the day, from your very own medieval terrace.

Hotel de la Cité Carcassonne is one of the best castle hotels in France

Restaurant at the Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne 

The Michelin-starred restaurant at the Hôtel de la Cité is one of the castle’s major attractions – be prepared for quality French cuisine and fine local specialities, often presented with a unique twist.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Tour the fascinating medieval fortress of Carcassonne
  • Visit the many Cathar castles in the region (including Peyrepertuse and Quéribus)
  • Go caving in the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine

Key events during the year

  • Festival de Carcassonne (music, theatre and dance) – July

How to get to Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne

The closest town to this castle hotel (other than Carcassonne) is Narbonne (61km). The closest international airport is Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS).


CHÂTEAU DE PICOMTAL

Medieval château bed & breakfast in the Southern French Alps offering cooking workshops in a traditional setting.

This gorgeous 16th-century castle, complete with a 13th-century tower, sits close to the Écrins National Park, near the medieval village of Crots. Take in the Alpine scenery as you wander through the beautiful gardens, and admire the fine stained glass windows in the medieval chapel.

The traditional interiors are in keeping with the historic architecture, complete with richly decorated rooms and sparkling chandeliers, making this a tranquil and atmospheric location for a weekend away.

Château de Picomtal - Amazing chateau hotels France
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons / Fr.Latreille. Edited

There is no restaurant at Château de Picomtal, however, their cooking classes are followed by dinner.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Go hiking and cycling in the Écrins National Park
  • Visit the Romanesque Abbey of Boscodon
  • Play water sports on the Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Key events during the year

  • The castle offers a regular programme of concerts throughout the summer

How to get to Château de Picomtal

The closest town to this château bed & breakfast in France is Gap (35km). The closest international airports are Cuneo International Airport (CUF) and Marseille Provence Airport (MRS).


Castle Hotels in the South West of France

The Bordeaux wine region is home to some incredible châteaux, and many of them have been converted into stately hotels. Or how about discovering the delights of the Dordogne Valley by staying in a cosy B&B.

CHÂTEAU HÔTEL GRAND BARRAIL 

19th-century château hotel near Bordeaux with onsite spa, Turkish baths and an outdoor pool.

This beautiful castle, nestled in acres of vineyards, looks straight out of a fairy tale. Boasting classic 19th-century architecture, with an imposing tower, the Château Hôtel Grand Barrail absolutely glows at sunset hour, making this an exceptionally romantic castle destination.

Inside, the rooms offer modern comforts with luxurious touches, and the location is second-to-none, offering easy access to Saint Émilion, Bordeaux and the Dordogne Valley.

Grand Barrail - Château Hôtel Restaurant Spa
Photo credit: Grand Barrail – Château Hôtel Restaurant Spa

Restaurant at the Château Grand Barrail Hôtel

The gastronomic restaurant at Château Grand Barrail Hôtel offers seasonal ingredients and fine local cuisine, specialising in dishes from the Périgord and Bordeaux regions, within an elegant setting. 

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the historic village and caves of Saint Émilion
  • Tour the vineyards of the Bordeaux region
  • Go cycling through the countryside around Saint-Émilion

Key events during the year

  • Saint Émilion Jazz Festival – July

How to get to Château Grand Barrail Hôtel

The closest town to this castle hotel in France is Bordeaux (40km). The closest international airport is Bordeaux (BOD).


CHÂTEAU LAFAURIE-PEYRAGUEY 

13th-17th century country château hotel set within the vineyards of South-West France.

The château at Lafaurie-Peyraguey dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most important wine-producing estates in Sauternes. This is the place where wine lovers and history buffs find the ideal sweet spot, a historic building with a formidable reputation for viticulture.

This beautiful hotel also offers a taste of luxury, providing a peaceful haven of relaxation in between tours of the stunning countryside around Bordeaux.

Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey is a stunning hotel in France
Photo credit: Wikipedia Commons / Evoe Conseil. Edited.

Restaurant at Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey

The Michelin-starred restaurant at Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey works culinary magic with simple, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Rooted in local tradition and produce, the carefully designed set menus offer a gastronomic experience not easily forgotten.

Key attractions & things to do near the castle

  • Visit the historic village of Saint Émilion
  • Tour the vineyards of Sauternes
  • Go hiking in the Gascony Natural Park

Key events during the year

  • Saint Émilion Jazz Festival – July

How to get to Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey

The closest town to this château hotel in France is Bordeaux (8km). The closest international airport is Bordeaux (BOD).


CHÂTEAU DE MARAVAL 

15th century château accommodation in the Dordogne Valley with spa, outdoor pool and gym.

This stunning, unique castle is the ideal couple’s hideaway in the beautiful Dordogne Valley. Just a short drive away from the charming town of Sarlat, this 15th-century castle is secluded, quiet and peaceful, offering a luxurious retreat in a historic setting.

The owners offer an intimate, personalised service, and the castle has been tastefully restored to ensure every possible comfort.

Best Chateaux hotels in France - Château de Maraval
Photo credit: Château de Maraval
Best Chateaux hotels in France - Château de Maraval
Photo credit: Château de Maraval

There is no onsite restaurant at Château de Maraval, but meals are offered at the owner’s table at prior request.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Canoeing along the Dordogne River
  • Treat yourself to hot air ballooning over the Périgord
  • Visit the beautiful historic village of Domme

Key events during the year

  • Sarlat Truffle Festival – January
  • Sarlat Theatre Festival – July/August

How to get to Château de Maraval

The closest town to this guest house in the Dordogne Valley is Sarlat-la-Caneda (16km). The closest international airport is Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS).


CHÂTEAU DE LALANDE

18th – 19th Century Château with pool in the Périgord region of France

Château de Lalande, nestled in the lush, green countryside of the Périgord, offers a traditional French chateau experience. The castle dates from the 18th century and has been carefully and tastefully restored by current owners Catherine and Yves Staebell, preserving its period charm and grandeur.

Equipped with an outdoor pool set in historic parkland, comfortable rooms decorated in an elegant manorial style, and an excellent restaurant, Château de Lalande has everything required for complete relaxation. This château hotel offers an ideal base from which to explore the glorious Dordogne Valley.

Château de Lalande is one of the Best Château Hotels in France
Original photo credit: Wikimedia Commons / Père Igor. Edited.

Restaurant at Château de Lalande

The Périgord is famous for its gastronomy, and the kitchen at Château de Lalande is no exception. This is the place to try local specialities skillfully prepared by Chef Yves Staebell. Guests may choose from the standard menu or the decadent ‘Epicurean’ menu, served to the entire table.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the prehistoric wall paintings at the award-winning Lascaux cave complex
  • Discover the enormous stalactites and stalagmites at the Gouffre de Proumeyssac
  • Go canoeing along the Dordogne River, passing by medieval castles on your way

Key events during the year

  • Night markets – July/August
  • Périgueux New Orleans Jazz Festival – July
  • Périgueux Mime Festival – July

How to get to Château de Lalande

The closest towns to this French château hotel are Périgueux (15km) and Bergerac (50km). The closest international airport is Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (EGC).


Château Hotels in the North West of France

The Loire Valley may be home to some of France’s most famous castles, but there are plenty more to discover in this intriguing region of France. Normandy and Brittany also offer country escapes and château stays in luxurious surroundings.

CHÂTEAU LA CHENEVIÈRE 

17th century château housing a 5-star hotel with pool, spa & gym in Normandy.

This intimate boutique hotel is set in historic parkland, filled with ancient cedars and sequoias. A beautiful setting that imposes a slower, more relaxed way of life on its visitors.

The rooms are decorated with elegance, with frequent nods to the castle’s historic legacy, and the service here is personal and attentive.

This is a family-friendly hotel designed for relaxation and is ideally located to facilitate exploration of the beautiful Normandy coast.

Château la Chenevière - one of the best castle hotels in France
Photo credit: Château la Chenevière
Château la Chenevière - one of the best castle hotels in France
Photo credit: Château la Chenevière

Restaurants at the Château la Chenevière

The Château la Chenevière boasts not one, but two restaurants, promising a gastronomic journey through some of Normandy’s finest cuisine. The main dining room, Le Botaniste, provides fine French gastronomy, while the Petit Jardin serves up light lunches and grills.

Key attractions & things to do near the castle

  • Visit the Bayeux Tapestry, and learn about Normandy’s medieval connections with England
  • See the gorgeous harbour and port of Honfleur
  • Spend a day on the golden sands of Arromanches beach

Key events during the year

  • Beauregard Music and Arts Festival near Caen – July

How to get to Château la Chenevière

The closest town to this château hotel in Normandy is Bayeux (8km). The closest international airport is Caen-Carpiquet Airport (CFR).


CHÂTEAU DE CHANTORE

18th century château hotel in Normandy near the region’s finest attractions.

The Château de Chantore is an 18th-century castle hotel set in vast grounds, perfectly located to allow visitors to experience some of Normandy’s finest treats.

The epic monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel is just a short drive away and is visible from the castle itself, and the beautiful beaches of Carolles and Jullouville, the town of Saint-Malo, and the atmospheric fishing villages of the Normandy coast are within an easy drive.

The grandiose interiors will transport visitors back in time, and the beautiful historic park, home to the owners’ horses, is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk.

Château de Chantore - One of the Best Castle Hotels in France
Original image credit: Wikimedia Commons / Ikmo-ned. Edited.

There is no onsite restaurant at Château de Chantore, but breakfast is served daily in the dining room and the owners are very happy to recommend and book local restaurants for your convenience.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the iconic monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel
  • See the medieval monuments of Avranches, including the Gothic church and the Scriptorial of Mont-Saint-Michel, which hosts the monasteries priceless manuscripts
  • Visit the fortified port town of Granville and the Christian Dior Museum

Key events during the year

  • Via Aeterna Sacred Music Festival at Mont-Saint-Michel – September

How to get to Château de Chantore

The closest town to this château in northern France is Avranches (9km). The closest international airport is Rennes Bretagne Airport (RNS).


CHÂTEAU DE PENFRAT

19th century château hotel in Brittany that allows you to experience royal living on a budget.

This beautiful castle is set in tranquil ground next to the River Odet. Once a traditional hunting lodge, the Château de Penfrat is now a comfortable retreat for families and couples, and the ideal base from which to explore southern Brittany.

A romantic hideaway offers that simple, comfortable rooms and a peaceful environment, but the main attraction here is the beautiful parkland, where you can spend the days walking, picnicking and soaking up the sun next to the river.

Château de Penfrat is one of the loveliest Chateau hotels in France
Photo credit: Barbora Berger / Château de Penfrat.

There is no onsite restaurant at Château de Penfrat, however, a bountiful breakfast is served in a gorgeous garden setting. There are also BBQ facilities provided.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the medieval town of Quimper, with its medieval castle and historic quarter
  • Kite-surfing and windsurfing in Pointe de la Torche/canoeing on the River Odet
  • Watch the sunset at the Pointe du Raz, the westernmost point of Brittany

Key events during the year

  • Festival Le Cournouaille, an annual festival of Celtic and Breton culture – July

How to get to Château de Penfrat

The closest town to this château hotel in northern France is Quimper (15km). The closest international airport is Brest Bretagne Airport (BES). 


CHÂTEAU DES BRIOTTIÈRES

18th century château hotel in the Loire Valley with outdoor pool, spa and tennis courts.

The Loire Valley is littered with impressive castles, and there’s no finer way to immerse yourself in local culture than by staying in your very own château hotel.

The Château des Briottières is a magnificent example of 18th-century castle architecture, with opulent interiors and ten beautifully decorated, luxurious bedrooms, set in 100 acres of parkland.

The castle has been owned by the same family for seven generations, and the current owners live in the property, providing visitors with a very warm welcome.

Château des Briottières is one of the best chateau hotels in France

The Château des Briottières’ restaurant

The Château des Briottières provides a traditional table d’hôtes rather than a gastronomic restaurant, comprising a set menu of family recipes and local dishes. Vegetarian and children’s options are available upon request.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the impressive chateaux of the Loire
  • Explore the town of Angers, including the castle, botanical garden, and cathedral
  • Visit the medieval Abbey of Fontevraud

Key events during the year

  • Anjou Theatre Festival – summer

How to get to Château des Briottières

The closest town to this château hotel in the Loire Valley is Angers (29km). The closest international airport is Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE).


CHÂTEAU DE PERREUX 

18th century château accommodation in the Loire Valley with outdoor pool. 

The pointed towers of this romantic castle hotel are an elegant reminder of the historic legacy of the beautiful Château de Perreux in Amboise, in the Loire Valley. The hotel’s slick interiors are warm, comfortable and modern, albeit punctuated by exposed beams and other period features.

Set in a green parkland with tree-lined avenues, this castle offers elegance, style and a very warm welcome. You can also rent this French château privately – making it the perfect place to host a country wedding or large family reunion.

Château de Perreux is one of the finest château hotels in the Loire Valley

The restaurant at Château de Perreux

The restaurant at Château de Perreux is devoted to showcasing the best the Loire Valley has to offer. Featuring simple, elegant meals, made from locally sourced ingredients, this hotel effectively showcases some of the region’s finest dishes. The restaurant serves a set menu that changes daily.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Visit the nearby Amboise castle
  • Take a tour of the Loire’s finest vineyards
  • Hire bikes and explore the Loire Valley on two wheels

Key events during the year

  • ‘Prophecy of Amboise’ Sound and Light Show at Amboise Castle – July
  • Vitiloire, wine festival of the Loire Valley – May

How to get to Château de Perreux

The closest town to this château hotel in the Loire Valley is Tours (26km). The closest international airport is Tours Val de Loire Airport (TUF).


Château Hotels in France’s Eastern Regions

It shouldn’t come as any surprise that France’s wine country is also château country. Both the Bourgogne and Champagne regions host some incredible historic hotels, and the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is home to fine examples of Renaissance architecture.

CHÂTEAU DE VAULT DE LUGNY 

12th century boutique hotel with indoor swimming pool, tennis courts and farm in the Bourgogne region.

The Château de Vault de Lugny may be the only castle hotel in France where you can take a swim beneath 12th-century vaults. This stunning, ancient building dates from the 12th century and is reportedly a favourite holiday destination of singer Eric Clapton.

The rooms are lavishly decorated and come with a range of period features and antiques, adding to the vintage charm of this beautiful hotel.

Château de Vault de Lugny is one of the most beautiful chateau hotels in France
Photo credit: Château de Vault de Lugny
Château de Vault de Lugny is one of the most beautiful chateau hotels in France
Photo credit: Château de Vault de Lugny

The Château de Vault de Lugny Restaurant

Although the restaurant at the Château de Vault de Lugny is undoubtedly focused on traditional Burgundian cuisine, the menu is inventive, fresh and modern, showcasing this region’s wonderful produce at its best. Ingredients are as local as they come, with most of the vegetables gathered from the castle’s extensive gardens.

Key attractions & things to do near the castle

  • Hiking/Cycling in the Morvan National Park
  • Visit Dijon, the region’s gastronomic hub
  • Explore the medieval town of Vézelay with its medieval church

Key events during the year

  • Semur-en-Auxois Horse Racing Festival, including chariot races – May

How to get to Château de Vault de Lugny

The closest town to this French castle hotel is Auxerre. The closest international airport is Orly International Airport (ORY).


CHÂTEAU DE FÈRE

17th century château hotel in the Champagne region with outdoor pool and spa.

The Château de Fère is a beautiful 17th-century castle, perched next to its medieval twin. The older, ruined Château de Fère was built in the 12th century, and its remaining walls create an imposing, atmospheric silhouette for guests at the more modern hotel and spa just next door.

The 32 rooms of the Château de Fère offer luxury and comfort and are tastefully decorated, in addition to providing beautiful views over the surrounding countryside. The ideal base for exploring everything Champagne has to offer.

The restaurant at Château de Fère 

The Château de Fère offers classic French gastronomy in a choice of set menus – of three, four or five courses. This is an excellent place to sample a wide range of French wines and champagne, alongside a variety of dishes inspired from all corners of France.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Explore the ancient town of Soissons, former capital under the early Franks
  • Tour the vineyards and caves of Champagne
  • Visit the iconic Gothic Cathedral at Reims

Key events during the year 

  • Épernay champagne festival – December

How to get to Château de Fère

The closest town to this castle hotel in Champagne is Soissons (28km). The closest international airport is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).


CHÂTEAU D’ÉTOGES 

17th century château hotel in the Champagne region of France with gourmet restaurant and onsite spa.

Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, this beautiful 17th-century castle is classified as a historical monument. The French kings once used this spot to break their journey en route to the eastern provinces of France, and it’s easy to see the attraction.

Complete with pepperpot towers, a traditional moat, beautiful grounds and lavish interiors, this is certainly the place to experience a little royal decadence. There’s no better place to sample all the delights that Champagne has to offer.

Château d'Étoges is one of the most beautiful castle hotels in France
Photo credit: Wikipedia Commons / EH of Etoges. Edited

L’Orangerie restaurant at Château d’Étoges

The Château d’Étoges restaurant is found in the Orangery and offers wonderful views over the castle grounds. It provides classic French fine dining, with an excellent wine list, and is an ideal place to try some traditional regional dishes.

A full separate vegetarian and vegan menu further defines this restaurant as a leader in innovative French cuisine.

Key attractions & things to do near the castle

  • Tour the Champagne vineyards
  • Visit the city of Reims and its beautiful Gothic cathedral
  • Visit the medieval town of Troyes

Key events during the year

  • Joan of Arc Festival, Reims – July
  • Ay Champagne Festival – July
  • Foire de Chalons (food, wine, arts and music) in Chalons-en-Champagne – September

How to get to Château d’Étoges

The closest town to this castle hotel is Chálons-en-Champagne (40km). The closest international airports are Paris-Vatry Airport (XCR) and Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).


CHÂTEAU DE BAGNOLS

Renaissance château housing a 5-star hotel with pool, spa, and Michelin-starred restaurant, in the Rhône department.

This Renaissance castle is straight out of a fairy-tale, set amid rolling vineyards and complete with fortified walls, moat and drawbridge. The stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens are the stars of the show, creating an other-worldly atmosphere and offering the perfect place to kick back and relax.

Nestled in the beautiful Beaujolais countryside, the Château de Bagnols offers classy interiors and a warm welcome – the ideal retreat for a romantic weekend for couples, or a relaxing holiday in luxury.

Chateau de Bagnols is one of the most beautiful castle hotels in France
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons / Pascal Muradian. Edited.

Restaurant 1217 at Château de Bagnols

The Michelin-starred restaurant at the Château de Bagnols is a major attraction – expect fine dining and wonderful, locally sourced ingredients. Although the dinner menu is on the higher end of the price range, the lunchtime set menus offer very good value for money.

Key attractions & things to do near the château

  • Vineyard tours and wine tasting in the renowned Beaujolais region
  • Visit the nearby Museum, Botanical Gardens and Geological Trail at the Espace Des Pierres Folles
  • Hiking in the Pierres Dorées region

Key events during the year

  • Beaujolais Nouveaux Festival, celebrating the arrival of the new vintage – November

How to get to Château de Bagnols

The closest town to this hotel château is Lyon (36km). The closest international airport is Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS).


CHATEAU DE CODIGNAT 

16th century luxury château hotel in Auvergne with outdoor pool, tennis court and spa.

The Auvergne, one of France’s wildest regions, is not well known for its castles, but the Château de Codignat offers five-star chateau luxury in the heart of the Auvergne’s mountainous countryside.

Featuring fine stone architecture, tree-lined paths and warm, atmospheric interiors, this is an ideal place to come for an authentic château experience.

The lavish period features add to the ambience, and the luxury outdoor pool and beautiful castle grounds provide the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Château de Codignat is one of the most beautiful château hotels in France

The restaurant at Château de Codignat

The castle restaurant offers a delicate Auvergne-inspired cuisine with locally sourced produce. Guests may choose from a range of set menus, ranging from four to six courses.

Key attractions & things to do near the castle

  • Tour the region’s long-extinct volcanoes, and visit the Volcano museum and amusement park at Saint-Ours-les-Roches
  • Ascend the Puy de Dome for fantastic views across the region
  • Visit local historic villages such as Chateldon and Montpeyroux to learn more about the culture and history of the Auvergne

Key events during the year

  • Clermont-Ferrand Short Film Festival – February

How to get to Château de Codignat

The closest town to this château hotel in Auvergne is Clermont-Ferrand (34km). The closest international airport is Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE).


With so many beautiful château hotels in France, choosing where to stay can be a fun, yet difficult task. Why not incorporate a few of these stunning châteaux into a road trip worthy of royalty…

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Dreaming of staying in a French château? These beautiful castle hotels in France have been handpicked for delivering the quintessential royal experience in France. Book your château holiday in France today! #france #castles #chateau
Dreaming of booking a château holiday in France? We have you covered with the most beautiful castle hotels in France. #france #castle #chateau #frenchcastles

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13 Comments

  1. They do all look very dreamy indeed but I think my favourite is Château Hôtel Grand Barrail. I don’t know the area around Bordeaux nearly well enough so I’d love to think we could stay there to explore St Emillion and surrounds. Château de Fere looks fascinating too.

  2. So pretty. We stayed a night, not in a chateau, but in a very nicely decorated and impressive looking villa. The only problem was we on a cycle touring holiday and had run into gloopy mud from a flooded section of the Rhone and were filthy. But it was a cycle friendly hotel and they couldn’t have been nicer or more helpful. I was so embarrassed !

  3. There are some gorgeous châteaux featured in this post. On the first night of my honeymoon, we stayed in Château Hôtel de la Rapée, in Normandy. That was a long time ago, so I’m not sure if it’s still in existence! There is definitely something very romantic about a French castle! Thanks for hosting #AllAboutFrance

  4. One of my dream trips is to tour some of these chateaus in France. The Hotel Grand Barrail really got my attention. I would love to explore the nearby caves. Pinning your post for future travel planning!

  5. Wow! Have you actually stayed in all of these?? I am insanely jealous. With four kids and dog we currently prefer more basic (i.e. less breakable) accommodation, but these look wonderful for whomever has the time and money to indulge.
    Greetings from Luxembourg.

    1. Oh yes, I can imagine! Some of the options are kid-friendly and there are castle hotels for every budget too – so maybe don’t cross it off your bucket list just yet 😉 And no, I haven’t stayed in all of these (I wish!) I’m just rounding them up after much research for future travel inspiration 🙂

  6. Oh my gosh, what beautiful places to stay! I didn’t realize but there’s one of these fabulous places where I live! I think if I could be spirited straight to one of them for the weekend, it would have to be the Chateau du Fère! The ruined castle attached to it attracts me so much. #allaboutfrance

  7. Oh how dreamy. We stayed in a gorgeous Loire chateau (pre-kids, can’t remember its name) years ago, and it was a fantastic experience. Maybe one day… #AllAboutFrance

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