Most of us grow up watching Disney movies about beautiful princesses living in a faraway land in a breathtaking castle.
We imagine, we are princesses and build make-believe castles out of bedsheets, and whatever other materials we can think of.
But what if you could stay in a real castle?
What if you could make your dreams a reality?
Who doesn’t want to stay in a castle?
Yes, France is full of top cities to visit, but why not get out of the cities and stay in a countryside castle.
Here are some of the best castle hotels in France, that you can stay in to make your dreams come true.
Top 10 Best Castle Hotels in France
1. Chateau de Picomtal
In the highest points of the summer and the snowiest points of winter, you will experience nothing but beauty from this hotel and its grounds (especially when you stay in the Louis XVI Suite)!
This is as luxury as luxury gets. With a huge traditional canopy bed, you experience the highest standard of comfort and decadence.
Not to mention that you can fill your days and nights with activities such as guided tours, nocturnal tours, cooking workshops, fine dining and even concerts!
If you are looking for a more intimate setting this is one of the best castle hotels in France.
Location
This castle hotel gives you a bit of everything. You’re close to the town of Embrun, which allows you to have an awe-inspiring view of Lake Serre-Ponçon.
Yet, you are also exceptionally near to the Southern French Alps too! It’s worth noting that the castle itself is situated right at the entrance to Ecrins National Park.
2. Chateau de Bagnols
Chateau de Bagnols is the epitome of 5-star luxury.
The grand structure of the old-time French castle blends seamlessly into its meticulously maintained grounds.
To get inside this once-in-a-lifetime hotel, you must walk across the original drawbridge and feast your eyes on the stunning entranceway.
For the utmost French experience, you will want to stay in the Château suite, if you are looking for a contemporary, yet still harking back to old-world France feel, go with the Chai suite.
For a truly French countryside approach to your holiday, the Jardin suite is the way to go.
Whatever you like to do — swim, walk, keep fit, get pampered, lounge, fine dine — you can do that and more at Chateau de Bagnols.
You will defiantly feel like a princess if you choose to stay here, which is why it makes it one of the best castle hotels in France.
Location
Even though there’s no reason to leave the grounds — all the beauty you could wish for is here — the castle is just 2.5 hours from Paris by TGV. Shopping, museums, and more stunning views await you here.
Besides that, the location is one of the countryside, with panoramic views, and exceptional wildlife sightings. You will not be disappointed.
3. Chateau de Codignat
This castle brings you a slice of traditional French culture, right in the heart of 15 hectares of the natural park. Due to the sheer size of the magnificent structure with its cascading turrets, you will feel as though it’s just you and your loved ones. It’s your very own piece of France.
Upon arrival, you’ll be starstruck by the original stone exterior and well-maintained window sashes. Then, as you step foot inside you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back in time. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sure.
This is by far one of the best castle hotels in France; it doesn’t matter why you’re there, whatever the occasion, it will be unforgettably special. Comfy business conferences, magical weddings, secluded honeymoons, or a week of fine dining, Chateau de Codignat is the perfect place.
Location
The castle is right in the heart of French history. But that doesn’t mean you aren’t close to other areas of exploration. In fact, Clermont-Ferrand is only a few kilometres away — don’t stress, the city vibe stays in Clermont and doesn’t come back with you to your countryside escape!
4. Relais de Chambord
Looking for a fairytale holiday? Relais de Chambord will give you exactly that. Set in what seems like a forest glade, you will be instantly transported to a whole new world.
In the grounds, you can opt into magical dining experiences surrounded by tall trees, mystical lanterns, and stunning table setups. Here, you’ll be in your own little universe which is perfect for romantic getaways and honeymoons.
You have access to 23km of hiking trails that feature private observatories so you can stop for a rest along the way and still not miss out on the expansive views.
Or, you can discover The Domain by bike if that’s more your style.
Inside, you can spend a day relaxing in the spa. Whether you want a hammam, sauna, pot of herbal tea, or a massage, the Spa by Nuxe can provide it.
If you can’t afford to spend the night in this Castle, you can still visit parts of Chateau de Chambord during the day.
Location
Even though this castle hotel is set in its own fairy-esque grounds, you can still travel to Paris in under 2 hours.
If the mood strikes, you’ll be able to spend your day observing the Eiffel Tower and come home to your princess castle.
5. Chateau les Carrases
For all you wine lovers out there, Chateau les Carrasses is the place to be. Why? It’s a 19th century Languedoc wine estate that has been restored and turned into your new favorite holiday destination.
This castle hotel characterizes itself as “authentic and serene” which couldn’t be more accurate. The back of the expansive property features comfortable deckchairs set up under parasols next to the crystal-clear infinity swimming pool.
Drinks are served poolside whenever you wish to sip on a cocktail while you catch some of the gorgeous French sun rays.
For those who fancy a little more luxury, you don’t have to stay in the suites. You can choose to stay in their extremely high-end private villas. And yes, they do include your own private pool, sun loungers, and stunning gardens. This is why it is one of the best castle hotels in France.
Location
In the grounds and the surrounding area, you can take part in a bunch of amazing activities. Whatever your interests are — horse riding, yoga, cuisine, markets, shellfish farming, truffle hunting, antiques, and more — you can do it all.
Plus you’re only a mere 2 hours from the Toulouse airport, so getting to your little slice of heaven couldn’t be easier!
6. Hotel de la cité Carcassone
Hotel de la cité Carcassone is a medieval-inspired fortress retreat. Staying here allows you to be in the heart of a World Heritage Site which you just can’t experience anywhere else.
It still showcases the Neo-Gothic style it was built in during the 19th century. You will feel like you’re there. It’s a unique, magical experience for sure!
The castle boasts a total of 47 rooms and a bunch of suites (13 to be precise). While each of these has a slightly different style, they all harp back to ancient France so you’ll get an injection of culture no matter which bedroom you pick. And, you can choose from 2 stunning views — the old city, or the stunning gardens.
Alongside all of this, you get a plethora of services from online check-in to concierges, from porters to air conditioning. Essentially, whatever you want, you can have at Hotel de la cité Carcassone.
Location
It’s set in the middle of the old-world-fortified city of Carcassonne. The location allows you to experience both the natural and man-made beauties this country has to offer. You truly get the best of both worlds.
7. Chateau de la Motte
Season 1 of Escape to the Chateau brought us the charming couple Dick and Angel Strawbridge who dared to take on the challenge of restoring an abandoned French chateau.
Well, this is the chateau. It’s all finished. This dream duo managed to inject some new life into the fantastic, majestic building. They’ve lived the French fairy tale and have opened up their spare bedrooms to you, their next guest.
Every vertex of this accommodation screams traditional France which merges wonderfully with the rural backdrop you’ll find yourself in. It’s a true pleasure to walk through the grand entranceway and find yourself enveloped in a homely, yet majestic feeling.
This will undoubtedly be your luxury home away from home, making it one of the best castle hotels in France.
Location
The property is situated next to a charming, panoramic lake that houses amazing wildlife. You’ll notice the trees and accurately pruned hedges that work to boost the feeling of high-class living.
There’s no doubt that you won’t want to go back to “real life” after this.
8. Chateau Hotel Grand Barrail
This castle hotel has taken French culture and turned it into a modern specialty.
Outside, you’ll find the large, enticing swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip after a long day exploring the surrounding countryside. Alongside this, there are pretty gardens backed by the natural reservoir which makes for a truly spectacular view — perfect for the photographers among us.
The interior features elements of traditional French tastes like the carpets and drapes, but incorporates modern, luxury features that bring your holiday to the next level.
You should expect nothing but perfection from Chateau hotel Grand Barrail.
Location
Holidayers love the South of France and we bet that you do too! Luckily, this luxurious castle is situated in the sought after region of Saint-Émilion.
Here, you will be surrounded by trees, vineyards, and just about every kind of breathtaking view you could imagine.
9. Chateau de Sadillac
So far, all of these have been somewhat romantic holiday destinations for newly-weds and in-love couples. However, we’re switching it up with this one since it’s perfect for the whole family — yes, including your little ones.
For those who remember reading Disney tales like Cinderella and Snow White when they were kids, you’ll be pleased to know that this castle is akin to the ones these characters’ abodes. Making it my top pick for best castle hotels in France while traveling with kids.
The grounds are exceptional and the interior has been restored to the highest standard. Exposed brickwork is a design feature in a lot of the 9 suites which only adds to the magical experience.
The owners have managed to incorporate lots of fun child-friendly elements like playgrounds, televisions, DVD players, trampolines, board games, swimming pools, and more in a very stylish manner. Nothing detracts from the beautiful view, yet your kids won’t be stuck for things to do.
Location
Here, you’re just 17km from Bergerac and a mere 13km from Eymet so there’s plenty of areas to explore.
You can even visit Châteu de Bridoire from here which is pure bliss! The best parts of France are here, just for you.
10. Chateau de Mercues
Our final best castle hotel in France is Chateau de Mercues. This turreted beauty stands proud in the vast countryside that offers hours and hours of peaceful exploration.
Inside, each suite has been designed with one word in mind — luxury. While French culture can be seen in some elements, the designers have incorporated a stunning blend of contemporary features too. Whatever your tastes, this hotel is the place to be.
Location
Located in the heart of the countryside, surrounded by lakes, trees, and European flowers, you’d think you’re super far away from everything. But this isn’t the case. You’re close to Mercuès itself, as well as Salapissou, Les Englandières and so much more!
Thank you so much for reading and I hope you enjoyed this article on castle hotels in France. If you are planning on trip to the south of France be sure to read my article on Best Villages in the South of France.
This is so lovely. thank you for the great write up