La Nuit des Châteaux: A Unique French Castle Experience
Posted on
This Autumn, France’s castles will sparkle under the moonlight as La Nuit des Châteaux returns for its 7th edition. From October 17 to 19, nearly a hundred historic estates across the country and Europe will open their doors after dark, inviting visitors to step into history in a way that feels magical, rare and special.
Whether walking the ramparts of a medieval fortress or strolling through the immaculate gardens of a Renaissance estate, guests are treated to an atmosphere unlike any other. For three nights only, the treasures of France’s heritage come alive beneath the stars, through music, theatre, candlelit tours and storytelling.
What Is La Nuit des Châteaux?
La Nuit des Châteaux was launched in 2019 by the heritage platform Dartagnans to raise awareness about the importance of preserving historic monuments. The concept is simple but powerful: open castles at night, bring them to life with events and connect the public to the magic of these places in a way daytime visits cannot. Each year, dozens of castles across France and Europe participate, ranging from royal estates to privately owned gems that are rarely open to the public.
What Visitors Can Expect
Each château crafts its own experience for La Nuit des Châteaux, ensuring every visit feels special. As you discover and explore the property, you might take a walk through candlelit halls and moonlit gardens, where the flickering glow of lanterns brings the past to life.
Actors dressed in elaborate costumes often perform historical reenactments, transporting you back in time with their stories and dramas. In the heart of grand courtyards, concerts, theatrical performances, and captivating storytelling unfold, filling the night with music and intrigue.
Some châteaux transform into impressive spectacles, featuring dazzling light shows and immersive soundscapes that showcase their architectural beauty. For those who enjoy local flavours, cheese and wine tastings, and regional delicacies from the terroir, France’s culinary traditions provide a taste of the country’s gastronomic heritage. Families can participate in treasure hunts and interactive activities, creating a memorable experience for all ages.
Where to Experience La Nuit des Châteaux
One of the charms of La Nuit des Châteaux is its nationwide reach. No matter which region of France you are in, a participating estate is never far away. In 2025, castles across the following regions will open their doors:
- In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpesregion: Château de Montrottier (Haute-Savoie) and Château de Saint-Montan (Ardèche)
- In Bourgogne-Franche-Comté: Château de Bazoches (Nièvre) and Château de Tanlay (Yonne)
- In the Brittany region: Domaine de Suscinio (Morbihan) and Château de Dinan (Côtes-d’Armor)
- In Centre-Val de Loire: Château de Valençay (Indre), Château de Montpoupon (Indre-et-Loire) and la Forteresse de Montbazon (Indre-et-Loire)
- In Grand Est: Château d’Ailleville (Aube) and Château de Jaulny (Meurthe-et-Moselle)
- In Hauts-de-France: Château de Cercamp (Pas-de-Calais) and Château de Couin (Pas-de-Calais)
- In Île-de-France: Château de Grosbois (Val-de-Marne) and Château de Dampierre-en-Yvelines (Yvelines)
- In the Normandy region: Château de Balleroy (Calvados), Château de Creully (Calvados) and Château de Bizy (Eure)
- In the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region: Château de Jumilhac (Dordogne), Château de La Mothe Chandeniers (Vienne) and Château Soutard (Gironde)
- In Occitanie: Château de Bruniquel (Tarn-et-Garonne) and Château de Merville (Haute-Garonne)
- Pays de la Loire/Loire Valley: Château du Plessis-Macé (Maine-et-Loire)
- In Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur: Château de Tallard (Hautes-Alpes) and Château de Simiane (Vaucluse)
For the full list of participating estates, see the official La Nuit des Châteaux website.
A Unique Opportunity for Château Owners
La Nuit des Châteaux isn’t only about visitors; it’s also a rare chance for château owners to showcase their properties. The event is the must-attend event for heritage property owners, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. It offers the opportunity to promote your estate, generate revenue and contribute to the preservation of France’s historic treasures. For many, it’s the perfect balance of sharing their heritage with the public while ensuring its future protection and legacy.
Why You Should Go
La Nuit des Châteaux is more than just a night out; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in France’s cultural heritage in a way that feels alive and vibrant. Every château brings something unique to the event, whether it’s the thrill of medieval jousting tournaments or the elegance of contemporary concerts set against centuries-old stone walls. By attending, you’re not just a passive spectator; you’re also contributing to the preservation of these historic monuments, as every ticket sold helps fund their upkeep and restoration.
Beyond the well-known landmarks, this event invites you to discover châteaux tucked away in quiet corners of the countryside that you might never stumble upon otherwise. It’s an opportunity to see history from a new angle, to wander through time, and spaces that have witnessed centuries of stories, and to create memories that will stay long after the night ends.
Dates, Tickets and Practical Information
This year, La Nuit des Châteaux will take place from Friday, October 17, to Sunday, October 19, 2025. As this is a highly anticipated event, we recommend booking your tickets in advance to ensure availability. You can buy them online through the official website or directly from the participating châteaux.
When planning your visit, remember that some châteaux are situated in remote areas, so organising transportation in advance is essential. Renting a car or joining a guided tour can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. As for what to wear, October evenings in France can be quite cool, so dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes will ensure you stay warm and relaxed while exploring.
If you’re keen to capture the enchanting atmosphere, consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance and a tripod, for longer exposure shots in the dark. The soft glow of lanterns and the dramatic lighting of the châteaux create perfect conditions for superb photographs you’ll be proud to share with your friends and followers on social media. Don’t miss the chance to capture the magic of the light on a special château night.
Learn More About Châteaux in France
If La Nuit des Châteaux inspires you to explore further, we have a collection of in-depth resources on our site. Discover the stories behind some of the oldest châteaux in France, explore our guide to renovating a French castle, and look at our comprehensive Château Buyer’s Guide, complete with detailed information and a downloadable PDF.
Unlock Extra Images