Some of us dream of owning a penthouse in New York, others prefer to think of themselves living like a prince or princess in a fairytale castle. If you belong to that category, you either have the option of buying a castle and possibly financially ruin yourself, or of just renting one for a weekend. Whatever you choose to do, there is no better place to do so than in France. With an estimated 45,000 castles throughout the country, there are certainly enough options to choose from. Below are 5 castles in France that you can rent out for a weekend, a week or – why not – even longer.
1. Château de La Ménaudière, Chissay
The Loire-Valley is world-famous for its numerous castles but most tourists only get to visit them during the day. Even though the Château de La Ménaudière might not be one of the most famous in the region, this 15th-century castle is still stunning and nothing short of perfect for a weekend getaway. Moreover, the Chenonceau, Amboise, Blois and Chambord castles are just a stone’s throw away.
With room for up to 42 people, a tennis court, swimming pool and helipad, it has everything to make your holiday memorable. Nature lovers will be in for a treat as well, as the castle has a 28-hectare terrain.
Price: on request.
2. Château de Pitray, Saint-Emilion
If you’re more of a wine lover, then the Château de Pitray will be right up your alley. Not only is it located in the world-class Saint-Emilion wine region, Bordeaux and Bergerac are also within driving distance, so a wine tasting session might well be in the books. The castle dates back to 1466, has been in the same family for 26 generations and the interiors will make you feel like true royalty.
The chateau has room for 26 guests, a swimming pool, a music room and much more. The castle is also closely tied to the wine making industry, as there are 60 hectares of vines on-site and the possibility for a wine tasting session in the chateau itself.
Price: 7,800 euros for a weekend, 13,400 for a week
3. Château de Roussillon, Roussillon
Do you prefer a romantic castle ruin over a richly-decorated chateau? Then look no further than the Château de Roussillon. The remnants of this 13th-century castle have everything you need for an unforgettable wedding or simply a cosy family get-together. With its setting amidst the forest on top of a hill, you’ll quickly forget you’re actually in the 21st century.
The Château de Roussillon has room for 21 guests but can welcome up to 110 during festivities and receptions.
Price: from 3,800 euros for a weekend and from 5,800 for a week
4. Château de Villers-en-Ouche, Villers-en-Ouche
Would you like to be present at the Olympics in Paris this summer without having to deal too much with the crowds? Just one hour and 30 minutes from Paris, the Château de Villers-en-Ouche is still within reasonable driving distance and will certainly offer you a different experience than if you were staying in Paris’ city centre. The main part of the castle dates back to 1610 but was built on the site of a former Roman villa.
The Château de Villers-en-Ouche has room for up to 25 guests and an interior you won’t soon forget. However, the park is even more memorable, with countless centuries-old trees and even an antique swimming pool.
Price: from 2,650 euros for a weekend and from 5,600 for a week
5. Château de Laumière, Saint-Rome-de-Cernon
The style of the Château de Laumière in the Aveyron-region is certainly remarkable. On the outside, the 14th-century building looks quite cohesive, but on the inside, you’ll find a mismatch of styles, ranging from the middle ages to the sixties. However, that is exactly what sets it apart from the other all-too-curated castles on this list.
The Château de Laumière has room for up to 16 guests and aside from a stunning swimming pool, you’ll even find a chapel on-site. Even though the region has a lot to offer, exploring the castle itself alone will probably take you a few days.
Price: from 800 euros a night
