Chateaux in the Dordogne are more abundant than any other region of France, indeed there are apparently as many as 1000 properties in the Dordogne, south west region of France, classed as chateau or castles.
There is good reason for this as the Dordogne region of France has a rich history of wars of which the one known as the one hundred years war is the most well known, there was a need for defensive chateau or castles in the Dordogne region. There are quite a number of strategically placed, fortified chateaux in the Dordogne which resemble the sort of castles which exist throughout England, Wales and Scotland, with turrets and battlements.
The Dordogne wine production industry is the other reason for such a proliferation of chateaux and in this case it was more a matter of sheer affluence which led to the construction of grand properties as well as a certain practicality for the making, storing and keeping the wine safe. Many of the wine chateaux are rather refined with traces of Italianate architecture, particularly 17 century and are meant to reflect the affluence and influence of the owner. A fine example is the chateau at Bordeilles on the river Drone where the main bedroom suite was specifically built in an attempt to impress and seduce Catherine Medici, of the most important Italian family of the age.
There are also many Dordogne chateaux which are a combination of the two, some are what we would class as manor houses or even country houses as opposed to real castle, these were built by landowners and again reflected their status as well as their requirements.
Chateau rental in the Dordogne has become very popular in recent years with large groups and families sharing the cost, who are now able to take advantage of chateau to rent at very reasonable prices. These are chateaux which have been adapted for chateau holiday rental as they are no longer needed for their original purpose and the rental income is now required for their upkeep. So now there is a unique opportunity for relatively normal people to holiday in a historic chateau, a wonderful experience enjoyed by children and adults alike. The Dordogne offers the richest choice.
To chateau rent for your holiday you can choose from our hand picked range or you may prefer to consider some of our large houses to rent in France as well as sometimes a manor type property will suffice. Our holiday advisors will help you choose, please call (no charge) or send us an email.