France is a treasure trove of tiny towns brimming with character and charm; these are the ten countryside towns to rent a chateau in France.
When you think of France, you think of style and glamour, effortless elegance, and food to die for. In a nutshell, who wouldn’t want to spend their vacation frolicking in the French fields, drinking wine, and soaking up the sun?
In this article, we round up ten top countryside towns to rent a chateau in France. Ready for the trip of a lifetime? Read on!
The World Bucket List’s top tips for heading to countryside towns to rent a chateau in France
- After reading our article and if you decide you would like to stay in one of these, we would recommend that you book in advance as the chateaux can be in high demand.
- Next, research the area that you are staying in and explore the local area, culture, sights, and attractions.
- If you are staying in more remote villages or areas, it may be helpful to learn a few basic French phrases to help when speaking to locals.
- Indulge in the local French cuisine and wine in whatever region you decide to visit.
- Lastly, and most importantly, enjoy the tranquillity that that these chateaux in these beautiful parts of French countryside on offer.
10. Bergerac – the sleepy market town
Located in southwest France is Bergerac, a sleepy market town that sits along the water. Residents here live a more laid-back life, and the town is as easygoing as they come.
In the surrounding countryside, impressive estates, and chateaus – like the 10-bed country manor, Chateau De La Cheine – offer guests a stay that won’t soon be forgotten.
More info: HERE
9. Solesmes – for impressive abbeys
Situated in the Sarthe region of the Loire Valley, Solesmes is a small town with great history. It is the site of the Benedictine Abbey of St Peter that was founded in 1010, and boasts a wealth of picturesque walking trails around the area.
Impressive rentals, such as the seven-bedroom impressively-restored Manoir Les Deux Fonds, also thrive in this part of the country.
More info: HERE
8. Le Bugue – the riverside town
Set in the Dordogne region is the small market town, Le Bugue – one of the top countryside towns to rent a chateau in France.
Located along the Vezere River, this country town is a hub of local life with winding streets and stunning surrounding areas. Rentals such as the 17th-century Chateau Des Truffles are fit for a fairytale and bound to knock your socks off. Experience the magic of Dordogne, nestled in the southwest of France.
More info: HERE
Read more: The World Bucket List’s picks for the 10 best ski chalets in France, ranked, along with the best Chamonix chalets you need to book
7. Brantôme – the Venice of Périgord
A sight to admire, the town of Brantôme is an attractive mix of medieval and renaissance architecture. Imagine strolling through this village with a French pastry in hand!
Also located in the Dordogne region, holiday rentals here thrive, and with the vast array of restored chateaus on offer, it is no surprise why. Our vote goes to the nearby Chateau Du Campe.
More info: HERE
6. Souillac – for summer Jazz
Located in south-western France is Souillac, a small village thriving with local life. Each summer, a jazz festival comes to town, and the energy is electric.
Closeby properties like Chateau Les Tourelles are fit for royalty and big enough for the entire family.
More info: HERE
5. Perigueux – for its cathedral and Roman ruins
Considered a place of great historical and cultural significance, a holiday in Perigueux is bound to be one of remember.
Complete with impressive Roman ruins, a cathedral and charming local life, it is safe to say Perigueux is one of the top countryside towns to rent a chateau in France. If in the locale, make sure to stay at Chateau Fleur.
More info: HERE
4. Sarrians – a village in the heart of Provence
Sarrians is located in the stunning – and oh so sophisticated – Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in southeastern France.
This quiet countryside town is perfect for those looking to escape the rat race; France is, in fact, the most visited country in the world! If visiting this part of France, Chateau Vaucluse is the place to stay.
More info: HERE
3. Banne – for summer art festivals
Located in the south of France is Banne, a traditional village in the foothills of the Cevennes.
Surrounded by sleepy hamlets and sprawling countryside estates, Banne is another one of our top countryside towns to rent a chateau in France.
If you’re considering a holiday here, check out Chateau De Mazelle. This 11-bedroom property is the epitome of luxury.
More info: HERE
2. Rocamadour – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Rocamadour is a top tourist destination and one of the most charming countryside towns to rent a chateau in France.
With dramatic scenery and immense history, it is no surprise that this UNESCO World Heritage Site was voted ‘the favourite village of the French 2016’. Stay at the nearby Chartreuse Des Roses if you get a chance!
More info: HERE
1. Montrésor – one of the most beautiful villages in France
Montrésor has been named one of the most beautiful villages in France, and with its dreamy setting, it is plain to see why.
Set along the River Android, with impressive architecture and storied history, Montrésor is truly a place plucked from the pages of a fairytale. Stay at Chateau Alarie for a holiday you’ll always remember.
More info: HERE
Your questions answered about the best countryside towns in France to rent a chateau
If you still have some outstanding questions on the best countryside towns in France to rent a chateau, not to worry! We have you covered in this section, as we have put together some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic to us and from online.
Which area is best for chateau in France?
There are lots of great areas in France for a chateau, but one of the most charming is the Loire Valley, which is home to beautiful architecture and stunning landscapes.
Where is the prettiest village in France?
Gordes in Provence is one of the prettiest villages in France, as well as Giverny in Normandy, Chablis in Yonne and Montpeyroux in Auvergne.
What is the prettiest town in France?
Some of the most prettiest towns in France would be Colmar, Chamonix, Saignon, Gordes, or Bayuex.
Where should I live in rural France?
A popular choice for people who wish to live in rural France would be the Dordogne region. Here, you will find a scenic countryside, beautiful cuisine, and villages teeming with history and charm.
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