15 châteaux and manor houses to visit in Normandy
Normandy, a land of history and legends, is home to some of the most beautiful châteaux and manor houses in France. From medieval architecture to elegant Renaissance buildings, this region offers an extraordinary journey through the centuries. Let’s discover 15 architectural gems that are the pride of Normandy’s heritage.
See also the Rouen guide :
- Top 11 culinary specialities in Rouen
- Discovering the houses of Corneille and Flaubert in Rouen
- Top 7 activities in Rouen
- Discover the most beautiful villages around Caen
- 6 of the most beautiful villages around Rouen, hidden treasures of Normandy
- The most beautiful villages in Calvados to discover
1. Saint-Germain-de-Livet castle
Nicknamed “the wonder of the Pays d’Auge”, the Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet (Saint-Germain-de-Livet, 14100 Lisieux, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 1200 reviews) is considered to be one of the most beautiful châteaux in Normandy. This unique architectural nugget harmoniously blends a 15th-century timber-framed manor house with a 16th-century dwelling in glazed brick and Caen stone.
Surrounded by a moat and nestling in a green setting, this Norman jewel, listed as a Historic Monument, is astonishing for its exceptional architecture. The interiors are brimming with refined furnishings and works of art, testifying to the splendour of yesteryear. The formal gardens that surround the château offer infinite tranquillity and are the perfect complement to this marvel of Norman heritage.
2. Château Gaillard in Les Andelys
Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Seine, Château Gaillard (Chemin du Château Gaillard, 27700 Les Andelys, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 3,500 reviews) is a medieval military masterpiece. This legendary fortress was built by Richard the Lionheart, Duke of Normandy and King of England, in the late 12th century.
Despite its imposing ruins, the castle offers exceptional views over the meandering Seine and the town of Les Andelys. The remains of this remarkable defensive architecture bear witness to the military ingenuity of the period, and are a must-see for fans of medieval history.
3. Carrouges Castle
In the heart of the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park, Carrouges castle (Le Château, 61320 Carrouges, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 2,800 reviews) rises majestically with its brick towers, slate roofs and granite facades. This Renaissance residence bears witness to the architectural evolution between the Middle Ages and modern times.
Surrounded by a moat, the château houses sumptuously furnished and decorated period flats. The estate extends over ten hectares of parkland and gardens, with orchards and flowering groves inviting you to stroll and contemplate.
4. Crèvecœur castle
Château de Crèvecœur (Crèvecœur-en-Auge, 14340, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 850 reviews) instantly plunges you into the heart of the Middle Ages. This exceptionally well-preserved medieval site is one of the last remaining examples of a small feudal seigneury in Normandy.
The ensemble comprises a farmyard with its farmhouse, barn and dovecote, as well as a magnificent stone chapel. The whole complex is protected by high walls and a moat, bearing witness to the social and defensive organisation of the medieval era.
5. Canon Castle
A perfect example of 18th-century classical architecture, Château de Canon (Canon, 14270 Mézidon-Canon, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 1,200 reviews) captivates visitors with its elegance and romantic gardens. This charming residence was the work of a famous lawyer of the Enlightenment.
The estate, a listed Historic Monument and Remarkable Garden, boasts the fascinating Chartreuse gardens, with their succession of perennials. Water mirrors, cascades and canals create a delightfully romantic atmosphere that enchants visitors.
6. Falaise Castle
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A medieval jewel dominating the town, Falaise Castle (Boulevard de la Libération, 14700 Falaise, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 2200 reviews) is closely linked to the history of William the Conqueror, who was born here around 1028. This impressive fortress with its three keeps tells the story of a thousand years of Norman history.
Completely restored, the château now features a modern scenography retracing the epic of the Dukes of Normandy and the Kings of England. Historical reconstructions and sound effects immerse visitors in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. For a complete discovery of the region, don’t hesitate to visit Caen with our guided tour.
7. Vendeuvre castle
An authentic testament to the art of living in the Age of Enlightenment, Château de Vendeuvre (14170 Vendeuvre, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 800 reviews) has kept its original furnishings and decoration intact. This 18th-century residence, which is still inhabited, offers a unique immersion in history.
The gardens, classified as “Remarkable Gardens”, are characterised by the omnipresence of water, with their surprising water features and cascades. This harmony between architecture and nature makes Vendeuvre an exceptional site in Normandy.
8. Beaumesnil Castle
A masterpiece of 17th-century Baroque architecture, Château de Beaumesnil (2 Place de Verdun, 27410 Beaumesnil, rated 4.2/5 on Google out of 950 reviews) dazzles visitors with its rich brick and stone decor. This exceptional residence is surrounded by four hectares of formal gardens.
One of a kind, Beaumesnil is entirely dedicated to gastronomy and the arts of the table. Visitors can discover French culinary history and even discover the secrets of Beaumesnil’s famous caramels, creating a memorable taste experience.
9. Pirou Castle
Considered to be the oldest castle in Normandy, Pirou Castle (Rue du Château, 50770 Pirou, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 1100 reviews) impresses with its exceptional fortifications. No fewer than five fortified gates, three moats and high ramparts protect this impregnable fortress.
Inside the walls, visitors can see the remains of medieval life: bakery, wine press, chapel and sentry walk. The shale roofs and preserved architecture make it easy to imagine what life was like in this stronghold in the Middle Ages.
10. Caen Castle
Covering an area of 5.5 hectares, Caen Castle is the largest fortified enclosure in Western Europe. Founded around 1060 by William the Conqueror, this exceptional complex has dominated the city for almost a thousand years.
Today, the château houses the Musée de Normandie and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, offering visitors a journey through the region’s art and history. The restored ramparts light up at nightfall, creating a stunning spectacle that can be seen from all over the city. Let theNavaway itinerary guide you on your visitto Caen.
11. Château d’Ô
Built in the 15th century, Château d’Ô (61390 Mortrée, rated 4.0/5 on Google out of 650 reviews) stands proudly with its huge Renaissance turrets piercing the Norman sky. This residence bears witness to a unique artistic savoir-faire, combining flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance styles.
The château’s exceptional architecture, with its many influences, can be discovered from the guard room to the intimate drawing rooms. Each room tells a page of history and reveals the artistic evolution of the region.
12. Ango Manor
A summer palace built in the early 16th century, the Manoir d’Ango (Varengeville-sur-Mer, 76119, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 1400 reviews) was built by Jehan Ango, the most powerful shipowner of the time and governor of Dieppe. Listed as a historic monument since 1862, it bears witness to Normandy’s maritime wealth.
The Renaissance architectural ensemble impresses with its monumental dovecote, capable of housing 3,200 pigeons and adorned with refined decorative motifs. The history of this “Norman Medicis” and his privateering expeditions is written in every stone of this exceptional residence.
13. The Champ-de-Bataille castle
Owned by interior designer Jacques Garcia, Château du Champ-de-Bataille (8 Route du Château, 27110 Sainte-Opportune-du-Bosc, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 2100 reviews) is considered to be one of the most sumptuous residences in the world. This 17th-century jewel has benefited from an exceptional thirty-year restoration.
The 138-hectare gardens, redesigned in the spirit of Le Nôtre, offer a grandiose spectacle with their perspectives, bosquets and fabriques. Jacques Garcia’s collections, displayed in the grand flats, reveal a refined art of living and a passion for French decorative art.
14. Bizy castle
Nicknamed the “Versailles of Normandy”, Château de Bizy (Avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny, 27200 Vernon, rated 3.8/5 on Google out of 750 reviews) has a captivating array of rooms with fine wood panelling and Bonaparte family memorabilia. This 18th-century residence houses the memoirs of the Marshals of the Empire.
The monumental stables and English-style gardens complete the visit. The richly furnished flats bear witness to the period’s taste for French decorative art and the influence of the imperial court.
15. Coupesarte manor house
An authentic Augeron dwelling dating from the 15th and 17th centuries, the manor house at Coupesarte (Allée du Manoir, 14140 Mézidon Vallée d’Auge, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 320 reviews) is a perfect example of traditional Norman architecture. Listed as a historic monument since 1947, this timber-framed jewel is surrounded by a moat and surrounded by greenery.
Considered one of the most beautiful manor houses in Normandy, Coupesarte has an exceptional architectural harmony, with its half-timbered structure and perfect proportions. Although damaged during the fighting in 1944, it has been meticulously restored by its successive owners.
In conclusion, these 15 châteaux and manor houses represent an exceptionally rich architectural heritage that is the pride of Normandy. From medieval times to the splendours of the Grand Siècle, each residence tells a page of French history and bears witness to the artistic evolution of the region. To get the most out of these marvels, don’t hesitate to take one of the Navaway audio tours, which will take you in the footsteps of William the Conqueror and the great figures who have shaped Normandy’s history.
FAQ
What is the most beautiful château in Normandy?
The Château de Saint-Germain-de-Livet is often considered to be the most beautiful château in Normandy. Nicknamed “the jewel of the Pays d’Auge”, its unique architecture is a blend of 15th-century timber-framed walls and 16th-century glazed bricks.
How long does it take to visit the châteaux of Normandy?
To visit all 15 of these châteaux and manor houses, allow at least a week. Each site requires 2 to 3 hours of sightseeing. It is advisable to group visits by geographical area to optimise your travel arrangements.
Which Normandy châteaux are free?
Some châteaux offer free access to their exteriors and gardens, such as Caen Castle (enclosure) or the ruins of Château Gaillard. However, most of the interiors and collections are chargeable, with prices ranging from €5 to €27 depending on the site.
When is the best time to visit Normandy’s châteaux?
The best time to visit is from April to October, when most of the châteaux are open and the gardens are in bloom. Summer offers the best weather, but avoid July and August to avoid the tourist crowds.
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