Without a doubt, France is one of the best destinations in the world for explorers and travelers looking to step back in time to explore the allure of the area’s many majestic castles. Along with being a renowned travel destination for incredibly complex and celebrated wine, delicious cuisine and charming historical cities and towns, the country is a haven for lovers of grand historical architecture.
From the opulent and enchanting halls of Château de Versailles to the fairytale atmosphere and splendor of Château de Azay-le-Rideau, each castle is entirely unique and offers plenty of opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the history and heritage of the French region.
Château de Pierrefonds: A Fairytale Fortress
Located right at the heart of a verdant forest, Château de Pierrefonds is a true fairytale fortress of epic proportions. A visit to this incredibly captivating site will quickly transport travelers back in time and remind them of classic stories and narratives such as The Beauty and the Beast.
This castle’s gorgeous cobblestone paths, fortified walls and drawbridge might remind visitors of a certain iconic map in the Counter Strike shooter franchise. While visitors might not be able to play this involved multiplayer game while on holiday, they could enjoy some thrilling downtime at CSGOLuck.com in their hotel room or while sipping a coffee at a charming coffee shop between exploring castles.
Château de Versailles: The Grandeur of French Royalty
A short train ride or drive outside of Paris will bring visitors to the incredible Château de Versailles, an enduring symbol of power and majesty. The castle itself is well-known for allowing visitors to view it’s breathtaking hall full of mirrors, the grand and elaborately decorated King’s Grand Apartments and the beautiful manicured gardens surrounding the towering structure.
While exploring the opulent palace interiors and grounds, visitors can learn the history of the structure by wandering around the various exhibitions and events hosted throughout the year. A casual stroll through this architectural marvel’s many manicured garden paths will afford them with opportunities to watch renowned fountain shows, depending on when they visit.
Château de Mont-Saint-Michel: The Enchanted Island Castle
Explorers who make a plan to travel to Château de Mont-Saint-Michel may immediately recognize this medieval masterpiece from Disney’s Tangled movie. The castle is extremely photogenic as the entire walled structure is known for how it rises in a dramatic manner from the sea.
Today, Château de Mont-Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting millions of international visitors each year to the rocky island situated within Normandy. For the views of the castle alone, this architectural wonder is a must-visit travel spot for all lovers of beautiful and historic sites. The best views and photo-opportunities can be found at the abbey located near the top of the island and guests to the castle are allowed to explore the narrow staircases and streets of this striking historical monument.
Initially built as a strategic fortification, this stunning tourist attraction has served as a prison and an abbey before finally becoming an iconic heritage site surrounded by tidal flats. When the tide is high, the entire Gothic masterpiece appears as though it is floating on the water, offering an awe-inspiring vista to anyone looking on from the shore.
Château de Fontainebleau: A Haven for Art and History
Conveniently situated a short distance away from the capitol city’s center, the treasure trove of art that is Château de Fontainebleau is well worth a visit any time of the year. The breathtaking and stunning castle has been a luxurious residence for French royalty for over 8 centuries, making it a unique cultural spot for history buffs to explore.
Guests who find themselves at the museum of Château de Fontainebleau can take in the distinctive historical pieces, artifacts and artworks found there. Anyone interested in stepping inside the castle itself will be able to admire numerous tapestries and frescoes before taking a walk outside to enjoy the expansive gardens of the location.
Château de Azay-le-Rideau: A Jewel of the Loire Valley
Explorers willing to travel outside of Paris should add a visit to Château de Azay-le-Rideau to their travel itinerary. This Renaissance castle is a true gem found in the middle of the Loire Valley that is iconic for it’s picturesque setting, elegant atmosphere and romantic architecture.
The fairytale appearance of this castle is just one aspect of it’s enduring allure. The structure also boasts immaculately furnished rooms within its interior and charming garden spaces to wander around. Along with Château de Azay-le-Rideau, the valley that surrounds the Loire additionally has many other fortifications and structures to visit, making the entire area a good destination for fans of castles.
Closing Thoughts
Scattered across the countryside, visitors to every part of the country will have ample opportunities to visit and view the collection of towering structures that bygone kings and queens once called their homes. Having withstood the test of time, the castles of France continue to capture the imagination of people today and have inspired authors, artists and game developers over the centuries and in more recent decades.
