Discover the immense beauty of the country’s stunning and grandest castles with luxury car rental France and enjoy the trip of a lifetime.
The beautiful country of France is one of the most enchanting countries in Europe. Known for its desserts, wine, football teams, historical significance, and breath-taking scenery, France is on every traveler’s bucket list. But did you know that France is also home to some of the most gorgeous castles? The country served as a battleground in many medieval wars, which is why its land is littered with castles and forts.
You must have seen many of these French castles in movies and television shows. These historical monuments invoke inspiration and serve as sites of photoshoots and places where painters come to muse over the scenery. If you’re planning a holiday, it is advisable to choose a luxury car rental France to explore the country at your own convenience.
While there may be numerous castles in France, a few of them are unmissable. Here is a guide to some of the most spectacular architectural marvels in France, all located within driving distance of Paris.
Chateau de Chantilly
While this castle is located near Paris, not many visit it as it is not one of the most popular ones. However, you should definitely drive your rented luxury car to visit this castle as it offers picturesque sprawling castle grounds. The grounds are so big that they consist of lakes, wooded areas and canals. The Anglo-Chinese garden is a must-see for both history buffs and leisure seekers alike.
The castle also houses grand stables with a variety of horses and an equestrian museum. If you enjoy art, there is an art museum located within the castle. One can easily spend a whole day admiring the castle and all it has to offer.
Chateau de Fontainebleau
Another day trip from Paris, this castle is located 55 kilometres outside the capital and the journey you will be making in your luxury car hire offers scenic views. Built in the 12th century, the castle served as hunting grounds for King Louis VII. It radiates royalty and has hints of both renaissance and classicism in its architecture.
There are no waiting lines or admission charges, so you can visit the castle any time of the year. There is adequate parking space available for your rented luxury car, so take your car for a spin and enjoy your day at one of the most prolific French castles.
Palace of Versailles
While not a castle in the traditional sense, the Palace of Versailles is one of the grandest buildings in all of Europe. Constructed in 1631, this chateau once served as the seat of power in France. History buffs flock to this palace as this is where the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919, bringing World War I to an end.
The palace now showcases the most important moments in French history and is an absolute treat to the eyes. The Hall of Mirrors, a room in the palace, consists of over 350 mirrors and should not be missed. While it is a short drive from Paris, you should buy tickets in advance as approximately 8 million people visit every year. Rent a luxury car so you don’t miss out on this wonderful monument!
Mont Saint Michel
Located in Normandy, this castle can be driven to by renting a luxury car for the most memorable day trip. Mont Saint Michel inspired the castle you see in the Disney movie Tangled. A coastal Normandy beauty, Mont Saint Michel is actually a walled city that offers stunning views if you climb up to the top. You can partake in a paid guided tour as well that takes you to the interior depths of the city where you can see the remains of an 8th-century abbey.
Mont Saint Michel is lovely to visit regardless of the time of the year. However, for a truly unique experience, visit this castle during high tide when it gets converted into an island accessible only by boat.
Chateau de Chenonceau
This castle was shrouded in controversy as King Henry II gifted it to his mistress Diane de Poitiers. Upon the death of the king, his widow Catherine de Medici claimed the castle for herself after forcefully removing the mistress.
The castle is one of the most significant ones in French history as it was ruled solely by women. For this reason, it was nicknamed ‘Le Chateau des Dames.’ Its famous arches are partly submerged in water, making it the most recognisable in the Loire region. Rent a luxury car and visit this historic site on your next trip to France.
Chateau de Puymartin
When thinking about castles, it is impossible not to mention the many ghost and ghoul stories that castles harbour. If you love ghost stories, you must visit Chateau de Puymartin in Aquitaine. While it is a long drive away from Paris, the castle is worth a visit for its legends. Drive down to the south in your luxury car rental France for a spooky experience.
The legend goes that the White Lady can be seen running towards the northern tower. In the 16th century, the husband of Therese de Saint-Clar locked her in a tiny room for 15 years after he discovered that she was having an affair. The room has now been deemed a historical and mythical landmark by the national government.
There are many more castles you can visit. A few honorary mentions include Chateau de Brissac which was the site of a double murder, Chateau de Joux, Castle Montresor, Chateau d’Annecy, and Chateau de Verteuil. All the aforementioned castles make for memorable day trips, especially if you choose a luxury car rental France.
Europe is filled with magical destinations that make you, your family and your camera very happy. France is known to be the most romantic country in the world, and the castles simply add to it. All the castles are well maintained as the French take immense pride in them. Rent a luxury car and experience the beauty of the country for yourself.
