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. It didn’t take them long to realise that wood wasn’t the most resistant of materials, especially when attacked by fire, and they soon opted for stone structures instead.
Mediaeval castles
The 11th century heralded the arrival of mediaeval fortresses whose watchword was defence. The lord would live in the main tower which was surrounded by high crenelated walls with arrow slits. They were either built on a hilltop vantage point with clear views of the horizon to see an imminent attack coming, or on flat ground, protected by a moat. In either case, dungeons and drawbridges were the order of the day and living was rustic.
Renaissance castles
As the centuries passed and times became slightly less barbaric, the purpose of castles began to shift away from military defence and more towards comfort. The 15th century marked the beginning of the Renaissance era: Kings and Queens took centre stage while plumed and paintbrush-wielding artists like Da Vinci and Michelangelo enjoyed their heyday. Castles were less about keeping out and more about showing off. Ornamental mouldings, decorative sculptures and decadent gardens swathed royal residences in elegance and prestige, and interiors were decked out with plush, gilded furnishings.
The French Revolution in 1789 put paid to the monarchy and ended the era of royal residences. However, captains of industry kept the country’s chateau-building reputation alive well into the 19th century with palatial palaces designed to flaunt their newly-made wealth.
Centuries of architecture are still standing strong and just waiting to be admired. If you like the idea of delving into the stories of times gone by, then here are a handful of addresses where you can do just that. Whichever corner of France you’re headed to, we’ve got you covered.
Before we set off, here’s a quick timeline of French dynasties to help you navigate the tales you’ll hear along the way!
The Capetians: 987 to 1328. Rewind back to the Middle Ages. This mediaeval dynasty counted 15 kings and spanned more than three centuries.
The Valois: Reigned from 1328 to 1589. This period saw a succession of 13 kings on the throne, some of whom were dubbed the good, the wise, the mad, the cautious and the builder. Henri II lived from 1519-1559 and was married to Catherine de Medicis.
The Bourbons: Reigned from 1589 to 1795. Six kings, including Henri 4th and a string of Louis’ including Louis 14th, the Sun King who built the Palais de Versailles, and Louis 16th who was guillotined in the wake of the French Revolution. His wife, Marie-Antoinette, came to the same grizzly end a few years later.
Castle gardens
The reputation of a castle often depended not only on the architecture but also its gardens, which, even today, are sometimes the main attraction. The Gardens of Villandry in the Loire Valley are a perfect example; although Villandry castle is suitably impressive, the reputation of its intricately designed gardens far surpasses the castle itself.
Initially no more than a place to grow food and feed animals, castle gardens became more creative and aesthetic in the 16th century. Some chateaux landscapers are just as eminent as architects – André Lenôtre, who designed the gardens of Versailles, for example.
Estate gardens might include vegetable gardens, rose gardens and water features, and are often split into two styles; French and English.
French gardens are formal, set out in neat, symmetrical lines with military precision. The layout usually creates a visual “lead up” to the castle to highlight the architecture. Trees are dotted along the alleys and low-lying plants are used around the building, sheared and shaped to within an inch of their existence. Water features may be used to enhance the effect.
English gardens are more informal - less orderly and more spontaneous with the emphasis on nature rather than architecture. Filled with bursts of colour and irregular lines, they generally require less maintenance.
Sélection
Pearl of the Loire Valley is a luxury château to rent in the Loire Valley which can accommodate fifteen people. If offers you complete comfort in a sophisticated setting. Perfectly furnished, it adapts to all your desires thanks to the diversity of its living areas and the atmospheres they offer. The location is perfect for discovering this region which is world renowned for its châteaux, its heritage and the charm of its countrysides.
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Majestic Loire Valley is a luxury rental castle in the Loire Valley between Saumur and Tours. This majestic 12th-century building is a listed historical monument. The original architecture has been carefully maintained and renovated, with contemporary additions bringing the chateau into the 21st century. Set in a scenic region famed for being the cradle of kings, this genuine historic residence has all the makings of a very special stay. Guests will also enjoy the heated swimming pool and the tennis court.
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Château Wine and Design is a luxury property for rent in the heart of the Bordeaux vineyards. A high-end refurbishment has brought a contemporary flourish to this old property while keeping its nobility intact. The chateau is located between the Gironde and Dordogne areas of the New Aquitaine region in south-east France, a place where vineyards, sunshine and historic properties abound.
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Loire Valley Green Chateau is a private chateau to rent for a holiday in the Loire Valley. With turrets, roses and wooden shutters, it has everything you’d expect from a French country chateau! And it’s well located too, between Tours and Saumur, among a landscape of castles and vineyards. You will love the rural peace and scenery here, just three hours from Paris. This is a region of rivers, fields and unspoilt nature where life is slow and every minute is savoured.
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Château Paris-Loire Valley is a family-owned château to rent just two hours from Paris. With a heated pool set in huge tree-dotted grounds, it’s ideal for a group getaway or family gathering. It brims with quintessential French elegance in keeping with the famous Loire Valley castles nearby.
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"Chateau Trésor de Sologne" is a château with a pool to rent in the Loire Valley, ideal for a holiday in France with the extended family or a group of friends. Close to the wine-producing town of Sancerre, the chateau’s beautifully decorated interior has large, bright living spaces featuring soft tones with pops of colour. Outside, the pool and pool house with a kitchen have everything you need to enjoy long leisurely days relaxing and recharging outdoors. Or venture out to explore – this rental property for 12 has castles and vineyards on the doorstep.
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Magnificently restored, "Luxury Retreat Dordogne" is spacious and luxurious, with a swimming pool. The modern feel is reflected in the choice of decor, with its pop colours and carefully selected mix of styles. In the heart of the countryside and at the gateway to the Dordogne, this estate is a haven of well-being and serenity that invites you to share moments with your beloved ones.
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In the heart of the Gers region and set in a medieval village, this former wine estate offers spacious accommodation for 12 to 14 people, a large natural stone swimming pool and areas dedicated to children for an unforgettable holiday.
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"Pure Nature Côte d'Azur" is a château in the hills above the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, perfect for combining South of France glam with a secluded retreat among nature. Take in breathtaking views of Bay of Saint-Raphaël on the horizon from the large swimming pool or as you sip drinks on the terrace.
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