For an aristocratic-style trip, these castles converted into luxury countryside hotels offer a mix of refined elegance and state-of-the-art comfort. On the agenda: sumptuous suites, gourmet dinners, majestic parks, and dreamy spas to be pampered like a queen. Castle life, yes, but with Wi-Fi.
Near Nantes: Château de Maubreuil
The pitch: Nestled in a green setting just minutes from Nantes, this sublime Relais & Châteaux is the only 5-star establishment in the region. Built in the 14th century, destroyed during the Revolution, then rebuilt in 1815, it reinvents itself as a jewel with about fifteen spacious rooms ranging from 28 to 77 m². In addition to an elegant pool and a Cinq Mondes spa nestled under vaulted cellars, La Table du Marquis elevates fresh produce from a permaculture garden under the direction of the chef duo Ingrid and Guillaume Decombat.
Why you'll love it: The spirit of travel invites itself within the noble residence through artworks sourced from all over the world. Each room unveils a storytelling ambiance to immerse yourself in a mysterious atmosphere without leaving your cozy nest. Choose your spot for the night between Jardins de Babylone, Richesses du Rajasthan, Escale à Saint-Pétersbourg, Nuit birmane... The same cosmopolitan vibe extends into the gardens, where cacti and tropical plants neighbor orchards, vines, and a permaculture mandala garden.
Price: from €357
In Provence: Château de Fonscolombe
The pitch: Want to play a modern-day marquise in a classified building surrounded by vineyards? Bingo! In Provence, on a vast estate at Puy-Sainte-Réparade, this property, which remained private for centuries, has been converted into a 5-star castle hotel. Turrets, boudoirs, canopy beds in the 50 rooms spread between the castle and annexes, a 10-hectare park dotted with statues, fountains, and a cedar tree planted by the Queen of England (so chic), a pool for a refreshing dip... everything is there to feed your Insta feed with stylish shots. Beyond the sumptuous accommodations, the castle houses a restaurant serving revisited Provençal cuisine with local ingredients, notably those grown on the estate.
Why you'll love it: The isolation offers absolute tranquility, ideal for disconnecting and recharging. All this while being close to civilization, with Marseille 30 minutes away and Luberon within easy reach.
Price: from €315
In the Southwest: Château de Montcaud
The pitch: In Sabran, a medieval village in Languedoc nestled between the Cévennes and Provence, hides this 1848 folly transformed into a charming 5-star hotel. The vibe: a chic and warm family home cultivating tasteful hospitality, set amidst hectares of lavender. The 29 rooms and suites, including two duplexes (#wanted), are decorated with extreme refinement, blending vintage charm with modern comfort. For those seeking privacy, a private house guarantees absolute tranquility.
Why you'll love it: Two restaurants, a pool, pétanque, and tennis courts add to the experience for endless afternoons far from the world's madness. The landscaped park is pure bliss with its blooming rose bushes and romantic ponds where koi carp swim among lotus flowers.
Price: from €297
Near Angers: Château de L’Épinay
The pitch: It's hard to get more romantic than this castle with a stone façade draped in ivy. 15 minutes from Angers, this stunning residence is the perfect base for a road trip to discover the region's treasures: Château de Serrant (a must), Zoo de La Flèche, Saumur... The proof? The guestbook is full of praise. The 27 rooms offer an elegant, unique, and soothing décor with park views, fireplaces, tapestries, spacious layouts, and high-quality bedding. Ultimate delight: a Balinese cabin nestled on the estate's private island. Royal peace guaranteed.
Why you'll love it: Girl bosses afraid of boredom in the countryside? No worries, there's plenty to keep you busy non-stop: bikes for leisurely rides along the Loire, tennis, pétanque, and even canoeing... For wellness fans, a spa offers massages, facial treatments, reflexology, yoga, pilates, and meditation... Slow life mode activated.
Price: from €162
In Sauternes: Château Lafaurie Peyraguey Lalique
The pitch: South of Bordeaux, the small village of Sauternes is known for its sweet wine, often enjoyed with foie gras. This magnificent castle belonging to Maison Lalique is surrounded by a Premier Cru vineyard dating back to the 13th century. It offers a handful of refined and sumptuous suites with an Art Deco touch. The highlight of the experience? The two-Michelin-starred restaurant, led by chef Jérôme Schilling, elevating local ingredients: Aquitaine caviar, seasonal tomatoes, local duck... served in Lalique crystal, naturally.
Why you'll love it: The crème de la crème, in one of the most beautiful wine regions in France. Sobriety not advised. This experience is reserved for discerning enthusiasts who appreciate the best wines and refined pleasures.
Price: from €284
