The most beautiful châteaux to discover in Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
It’s not just the châteaux of the Loire Valley that have shaped the landscape and history of France! Set off to discover the most beautiful châteaux in Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance, they too have left their mark on the history and landscape of our rural areas.
Villages sprang up at the foot of medieval fortified castles built on rocky outcrops, sometimes themselves surrounded by defensive ramparts to ward off attackers.
During the Renaissance, the ruins of some medieval castles served as the foundations for new buildings. Having abandoned their defensive function, the castles then became places of residence and splendour, where rich ornamentation was intended to display the wealth and power of their owners. Whilst the châteaux of the Loire Valley are amongst the best-known examples in the world, other equally fascinating buildings, scattered throughout our Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, are well worth a visit.
The Middle Ages or the Renaissance : which era do you prefer? Choose from our selection of the most beautiful châteaux to discover in Les Plus Beaux Villages de France!
The finest examples of castles in the medieval architectural style
Château d'Anjony
Château
Description
This 15th-century castle is notable for its keep and interior, which features remarkable frescoes. A residential wing was added in the 18th century to improve comfort.
The same family from Anjony has inhabited the castle ever since it was first built.
Opening periods
- From 02/03/2026 to 11/10/2026
Address
Le Bourg
15310 TOURNEMIRE
Château de Beynac
Château
Description
Perched high on its rocky outcrop, Beynac Castle is impossible to miss. With its crenellated walls, towering keep and terraces, it offers spectacular views of the valley and neighbouring castles.
Address
24220 BEYNAC-ET-CAZENAC
Château de Castelnaud
Château
Description
This 12th-century castle, which has been restored, now houses a museum of medieval warfare. The rooms of the seigneurial residence feature a collection of 200 weapons and pieces of armour.
Address
24250 CASTELNAUD-LA-CHAPELLE
Château de Châteauneuf
Centre d'interprétation
Description
This interpretation centre is dedicated to the history of the castle and regularly hosts exhibitions and events for all ages.
Discover the castle's buildings, which were constructed or converted between the 12th and 18th centuries. These include the keep, the main residence containing Flemish tapestries and medieval furniture, Philippe Pot’s residence, a chapel housing tempera paintings and a copy of Philippe Pot’s recumbent effigy (held at the Louvre), and a tower. A medieval garden completes the tour.
Address
21320 CHÂTEAUNEUF
Château de Yèvre-le-Châtel
Château
Description
The diamond-shaped castle, a majestic 13th-century fortress, rises behind its ramparts and four towers.
Follow the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the Beauce, the Gâtinais and the Forest of Orléans. Then, explore the medieval herb gardens, which are home to over 150 medicinal and aromatic plants.
Address
45300 YÈVRE-LA-VILLE
Forteresse d'Angles
Fort
Description
The ruins of this thousand-year-old castle exude a unique atmosphere. Amidst the remains of its towers, walls and chapel, enjoy a captivating tour suspended between sky and stone!
Opening periods
- From 02/11/2026 to 09/27/2026
Address
Route du château
86260 ANGLES-SUR-L’ANGLIN
Forteresse de Polignac
Fort
Description
To truly experience the town, a visit to Polignac's fortress is essential, as it makes a striking impression the moment you arrive.
Take a fascinating 14-step tour of the towers and ramparts to enjoy the panoramic views and step right into the heart of the Middle Ages!
Opening periods
- From 02/07/2026 to 01/03/2027
Address
3 place Princesse de Polignac
43000 POLIGNAC
Forteresse Royale
Ensemble fortifié
Description
Perched high above the Aveyron Gorges, the Royal Fortress of Najac takes you back to the heart of the Middle Ages, complete with high walls, a keep and arrow slits.
This fortified castle was once home to the Knights Templar, who were imprisoned here in the early 14th century. From the fortress's terrace, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the village and the surrounding Aveyron countryside.
The finest examples of Renaissance castles
Château de Grignan
Château
Description
The Renaissance castle in Grignan bears witness to the visit of the Marquise de Sévigné in the 17th century and has some fascinating stories to tell.
It was partially rebuilt in the 19th century and is now a lively place, with cultural events taking place all year round. Make sure you don't miss the stunning views from its terraces!
Château de La Roche-Guyon
Château
Description
Take a journey through time as you explore the history of this castle, from the medieval keep to the state rooms. Then, from the cliff top, enjoy the stunning views of the Seine and the village before exploring the castle’s exhibitions.
Address
95780 LA ROCHE-GUYON
Château de Montsoreau - Musée d'Art Contemporain
Musée
Description
This Loire Valley château has been transformed into a bold contemporary art museum, housing the world’s largest collection of works by the Art & Language movement. Exhibitions, performances and events bring this exceptional venue to life.
Address
Passage du Marquis de Geoffre
49730 MONTSOREAU
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