Top 5 Castles around Saint-Brieuc
Best castles around Saint-Brieuc are found in Brittany, France, a region known for its historical significance and diverse landscapes. This area offers a collection of châteaux and fortresses, each presenting unique architectural styles and historical narratives. Visitors can explore structures ranging from medieval strongholds to elegant residences. The region provides opportunities to engage with centuries of history through its preserved castles.
Best castles around Saint-Brieuc
- The most popular castles is Château de Bienassis, a castle that is a classified historic monument from the 15th and 17th centuries. It is still a lived-in residence, offering tours of its elegantly furnished ground floor and extensive grounds.
- Another must-see spot is Citadel of Bréhat and Glass Workshop, a castle and historical site. This 1863 citadel is well-preserved and features a glass art studio where visitors can observe production and purchase art objects.
- Visitors also love Château du Val, a 15th-century castle that now operates as a hotel and restaurant. It provides amenities such as a solarium, swimming pool, sauna, and spa, alongside refined French cuisine.
- Saint-Brieuc is known for its medieval fortresses, historical residences, and châteaux that have been repurposed into hotels. The variety of castles to see and explore includes structures with moats, defensive features, and those with extensive gardens or modern amenities.
- The castles around Saint-Brieuc are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 70 upvotes and 75 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Citadel of Bréhat and Glass Workshop
Highlight • Castle
Worth seeing is also the glass art studio. One can watch in the production of art objects, which can be bought in the shop also commercially.
A tour around the citadel is worthwhile because of the rock formations, the grove and the view of the sea. A bank off the beaten path is perfect for a break with stunning views of the mainland.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château de Bienassis
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Château du Val
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
View of the pond and the Château de Quintin
Highlight • Viewpoint
Photo credit: Emmanuel Berthier
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Corlay Castle and its pond
Highlight • Castle
From 1616, the site, which was already in very poor condition, was gradually abandoned for more than three centuries. It will take a buyout by the municipality to begin a vast revaluation of its ruins, and a rehabilitation of the buildings.
I advise you to take the time to explore the remains of this castle with its typical architecture from the end of the 15th century, whose past splendor we can only imagine.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Saint-Brieuc
Cap d’Erquy Val-André on foot – sea, nature and Breton heritage
The Customs Officers’ Path – GR 34 between Erquy and Saint-Malo
The Customs Officers' Path – GR 34 between Paimpol and Erquy
Sun cream and waterproof coats – 11 days in Brittany
The chapels and sunken lanes of Morbihan – GR 341
A hiking break in Brittany
The Seven Saints Pilgrimage — France’s Tro Breizh revisited
A Breton hike from Bréhec to Perros-Guirec — France’s GR 34A
From pink granite to the Opal Coast — cycle France’s la Vélomaritime
Coastlines of the English Channel — Tour de Manche
Other adventures around Saint-Brieuc
Tips from the Community
The pond dates back to at least the 16th century. It once covered the entire valley area. Its marshy parts bordered the bases of the medieval city walls, forming a natural defense at the foot of the original castle. On 18-19 August 1773, torrential rains caused a sudden flood that washed away the causeway of the pond, destroying the mills and causing the death of 15 people. The Gouët had a wild course there and the pond supplied the castle mill. The marshy areas of the valley were filled in for the development of the Corlay road in 1864 and to build the station of the “Petit Chemin de fer des Côtes-du-Nord” in 1907. Photo credit: Emmanuel Berthier
0
0
If you are on the island, you should definitely visit Castille.
1
0
Just take a 200 m detour from the cycle path and pause for a moment. It's worth it 👍
2
0
Beautiful castle. Not open every day.
1
0
Château Val, Planguenoual is a hotel and restaurant located in a 15th-century castle in the Côtes-d’Armor department, in Brittany. It offers a romantic and comfortable setting, with a solarium, a swimming pool, a sauna, and a spa. The rooms are spacious and elegant, some with a view of the park or the lake. The restaurant serves refined French cuisine, with local and seasonal products. The hotel also organizes various activities such as hiking, squash, and children’s games. It is a popular destination for weddings, seminars, and family reunions.
8
0
The crenellated wall is a remnant of the ring wall from the 15th century. The corner towers and turrets date from the 17th century. Porcelain (from China, Japan and Bayeux) and furniture are exhibited on the ground floor. The facade on the garden side still contains two towers from the 15th century.
7
0
Built between the second half of the 12th century and the first half of the 13th century, this schist and granite castle was destroyed during the Hundred Years War and then rebuilt by Jean de Rohan from 1475 to 1493. The pond, located at north of the castle, fed the moats which are now filled in. From 1616, the site, which was already in very poor condition, was gradually abandoned for more than three centuries. It will take a buyout by the municipality to begin a vast revaluation of its ruins, and a rehabilitation of the buildings. I advise you to take the time to explore the remains of this castle with its typical architecture from the end of the 15th century, whose past splendor we can only imagine.
0
0
Pretty chateau framed by a moat and with extensive grounds through which to take walks on mown lanes.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Saint-Brieuc offer activities for families and children?
Several castles in the region are great for families. The Château de Bienassis is a lived-in residence with extensive grounds for exploration. Château du Val, now a hotel, organizes children's games. The Château de la Hunaudaye hosts children's workshops, and the Château de Quintin offers treasure hunts for younger visitors, alongside its beautiful gardens.
What historical periods do the castles around Saint-Brieuc represent?
The castles around Saint-Brieuc span several historical periods. You can find medieval fortresses like the 13th-century Château de la Hunaudaye and the 12th-century Corlay Castle. The 15th-century Château de Bienassis and Château du Val showcase later architectural styles, while the 18th-century Château de Quintin and the 1863 Citadel of Bréhat offer insights into more recent history.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities or hiking near the castles?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. For instance, the Château de Bienassis has extensive grounds with mown lanes for walks. The Château de Craffault features bridle paths and a peaceful pond ideal for nature walks. You can also find easy hikes around Saint-Brieuc, such as the 'La Pointe d'Erquy' loop or 'Les chaos du Gouët' loop. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Saint-Brieuc guide.
Which castles offer unique experiences beyond typical tours?
The Château du Val operates as a hotel and restaurant, offering a romantic stay with amenities like a solarium, pool, sauna, and spa. The Château de Quintin hosts unique events such as murder parties and candlelight dinners. The Citadel of Bréhat features a glass art studio where you can watch production and purchase art objects.
What natural features can be seen around the castles?
Many castles are set amidst beautiful natural surroundings. Château de Bienassis is framed by a moat and extensive grounds. The Château de Quintin is known for its majestic French gardens. Corlay Castle is situated near a pond that historically fed its moats. The Château de Craffault boasts a park with ancient beech trees, box bushes, and a peaceful pond. The View of the pond and the Château de Quintin highlight also showcases the natural beauty of the area.
Are there any castles that are still inhabited or offer a glimpse into aristocratic life?
Yes, the Château de Bienassis is a classified historic monument that is still a lived-in residence. Visitors can tour its elegantly furnished ground floor, including the salon, guardroom, kitchen, dining room, staircases, and chapel, offering a direct experience of aristocratic life.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Saint-Brieuc?
The summer months are generally ideal for visiting, as many châteaux, like Château de Bienassis and Château de Craffault, host various events and open their grounds more extensively during this period. The pleasant weather also makes exploring the gardens and outdoor areas more enjoyable. However, some sites, like Château de Craffault, also offer access in early autumn.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?
Yes, some castles offer dining options or are located near amenities. The Château du Val operates as a hotel and restaurant, serving refined French cuisine. The Citadel of Bréhat has a cafe in its courtyard. For other castles, nearby towns will offer various dining choices.
Are there any castles with unique architectural features or defensive elements?
The Château de la Hunaudaye is a prime example, featuring water-filled moats, a drawbridge, and arrow slits that highlight medieval defensive architecture. The Citadel of Bréhat is an 1863 fortress that remains well-preserved. Even the Cathédrale St-Étienne in Saint-Brieuc has a fortress-like appearance with sturdy towers and defensive openings.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the castles?
The Saint-Brieuc region offers various cycling routes. You can find MTB trails, such as the 'Marsh bridge – View from Cap Fréhel loop' or 'Greves de langueux – VTT Côtes d'Armor Hillion loop'. There are also gravel biking options like the 'Greves de langueux – Douvenant Viaduct loop'. For detailed routes, refer to the MTB Trails around Saint-Brieuc guide and the Gravel biking around Saint-Brieuc guide.
Which castle offers notable gardens?
The Château de Quintin is particularly known for its majestic French gardens, which are registered national heritage sites. These gardens provide a picturesque setting and are a significant attraction for visitors.
Most popular routes around Saint-Brieuc
Most popular attractions around Saint-Brieuc
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Explore Saint-Brieuc’s best castles region by region:
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Saint-Brieuc:
