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When Francis I began to reign in France he was very young, and with that momentum and contagious energy of his twenties, plus his vision of a dynamic, united, humanistic and intellectual country, he became a key driver of the Gallic Renaissance. That same determination that he showed in his life and the desire to leave a great legacy for France, together with his passion for art and architecture, you can see if you visit the most beautiful castles in France.
A tour of the most beautiful castles in France
To speak of France is to be inspired by the power of love, the exhibition of beauty and the ostentation of luxury and comfort. And this is nothing new, the sophisticated and charming atmosphere of France is revealed when contemplating 10 of its most beautiful palaces; witnesses of a past led by kings, noble, virtuous and powerful. They are heritages that adorn wonderful regions such as the Loire Valley, the historic fortress of Occitania and the charming villages of Alsace. Plan your trip to France with a private tour full of luxury and the best memories.
The castle of Chambord
A beautiful castle that was the favorite fantasy of King Francisco I and where several architects participated who gave image and representation to the Renaissance; among them Leonardo Da Vinci. One of the attractions of the Château de Chambord is the double spiral staircase that makes Da Vinci’s innovative and futuristic idea come true. It was a novelty in the years when elevators did not exist; and even in our times it is considered an ingenious architectural work.
If you visit the Château de Chambord, you will love to see the beautiful, spacious and luxurious rooms where King Louis XIV rested. Also, do not miss the opportunity to admire the beauty of the frescoes, relaxing and wonderful palace gardens.
Chenonceau castle
A regal medieval architectural work also known as the castle of the ladies. Admired for the design of its dazzling arches that pose over the river Cher and that once was a silent witness to a very intense life. Where the ladies Luisa de Lorraine, Catherine de Medici and Diana de Poitiers contributed their ideas and personal touch in the decoration of its lush gardens. Already inside the palace, a large ballroom is located that allowed the pleasure of parties permanently.
The fortress of Angers
This castle houses exclusive treasures, such as the Chapel of San Juan Bautista, the enigmatic tapestry of the apocalypse that reveals in an artistic way the information contained in the book that concludes the holy writings. And do not miss admiring the impressive view offered by the Angers Palace through its amazing viewpoints. Take full advantage of the visual landscape and take all the selfies and photos you want to capture the splendor of the impressive place and the beautiful moment.
Castle of the Dukes of Great Britain
This imposing and regal castle, located in Nantes, houses a beautiful historical museum that reveals the past of France. This permanent exhibition includes a collection of works that describe shocking events such as the reach of Napoleon Bonaparte’s empire or the ravages of World War II. Another element to admire in this well-preserved castle is the water mirror; a very common protection strategy in medieval times that today delights our eyes.
Castle Azay-le-Rideau
A jewel of medieval, elegant and angelic architecture, the fruit of the union of French traditions and innovative Italian decorations. Located on an island and possessing a beautiful slate stone roof, it has a design worthy of kings and queens. It was built and renovated many times by some of its owners, who acted as royal treasurers and councilors. For more than 30 years it was even the home of King Louis XIII, although over time it was abandoned.
Today, the Azay-le-Rideau castle is one of the treasures of the Loire Valley and is protected by UNESCO. It was restored with passion, delicacy and good taste, recovering its ancient and exquisite architectural and decorative beauty. Now it exhibits a completely royal, charming and exuberant air, worthy of its former occupants. If you travel to France this summer, you cannot miss this spectacular castle.
Vincennes the castle of the city
Paris also has a medieval castle, considered one of the largest in Europe. Vincennes Castle is an impressive fortress that still retains its original architecture. Built as a hunting lodge for Louis VII, over the years it becomes a fortress.
Then, the keep is built nearby with 50m high; Carlos V being the one who promotes its completion and maintains his residence there. It was the official residence of the kings of France from the 12th to the 18th centuries. The beauty of the Vincennes, next to the great keep, was also made up of the country house and the holy chapel.
Castle of Pierrefonds
The most outstanding medieval architectural jewel in Upper France, it housed the conqueror Napoleon Bonaparte and his heirs. One of its great attractions is its excellent location, which allowed it to maintain control over very large areas of French territory. This castle has been the scene of great historical films such as Joan of Arc and The Man in the Iron Mask.
Castle of Carcassonne
Carcassonne is a beautifully fortified and well-preserved medieval city, its county castle keeps the secrets of many legends; among them that of the dualistic medieval religious sect called the Cathars.
They challenged the Catholic Church by criticizing its handling of power and wealth. The Cathars based their actions and teachings on the example of humility, simple life and service in favor of the human being that Jesus and the first Christians practiced. Its towers and battlements will allow you to enjoy amazing and exclusive views of the Aude river.
Salses-de Chateau
An invincible castle that has been disputed for centuries and that kept France and Spain in conflict. Faithful witness of the passage of time, whom not even the most bloody medieval battles managed to weaken. Because in this castle you can see first-hand the courageous history of Gothic France. So if you want to keep beautiful memories of your trip to France this summer, don’t forget to take advantage of the spectacular view offered by the Salses de Chateau.
Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle
The beautiful villages of Alsace also have their medieval history, and the Haut-Koeningsbourg castle occupies an important place in the region. This enclosure is in the middle of Strasbourg and Colmar, which gives it a border profile; which undoubtedly contributed at the time to the multiple impasses between France and Germany. The castle stands imposingly on the top of a beautiful mountain, surrounded by a wonderful environment that includes a national park; all this allows for an amazing view.
We invite you to know France through our private tours with driver and private guide, it will be an unforgettable experience.
