15 Best French Château Wedding Venues for a Dream Destination Wedding
From rosé receptions to private pools, our collection of French château wedding venues is simply magnifique!
We know that so many of you are considering an overseas wedding but have yet to decide where, which is why we’ve pulled together a selection of wedding chateaux in France that will totally exceed your expectations.
If you were ever in doubt that luxe doesn’t have to mean long haul, these super-stylish wedding chateaux in France are here to prove it. Whether you dream of tying the knot overlooking a blossoming vineyard or the glittering French riviera, there is something for every kind of couple in our roundup below.
Elegant and romantic, chateau weddings in France lend themselves perfectly to outdoor ceremonies and al fresco celebrations, not to mention an epic wedding weekender. Since many boast accommodation and are set in honey-hued villages or rolling farmscapes, they’re perfect for gathering all your friends and family together in one place.
And with these gorgeous venues (almost) on your doorstep, planning a chateau wedding may not be as tricky as you might think. Further down, our expert answers your commonly asked questions about weddings in France, including details about what to expect from French chateau wedding packages.
The 15 Best Wedding Chateaus in France: Your Ultimate Guide
History, fine wine, sunshine and views aplenty, these chateau wedding venues in France have it all. C’est chic!
1. Couvent Notre Dame des Prés
The magic of Provence unfolds here at stunning former 12th century convent, Couvent Notre Dame des Prés. Adored by couples for its three-and-a-half hectare park, beautiful old chapel, gallery and impressive 24-metre swimming pool, it’s now an incredible wedding venue that’s filled with the dreamiest spots to tie the knot and celebrate under the stars.
Dance until dawn within the chateau’s stone walls, have your pictures taken on the terrace overlooking the gardens and enjoy a traditional feast with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Tables decorated with flowers, candles and fairy lights will only wow your guests even more.
- Location: Reillanne, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
- Capacity: Up to 150
- Accommodation: Five rooms can accommodate up to 10 people
2. Château de Tresserve
Located in the much sought-after region of Savoie, in the French Alps, Château de Tresserve is a one-of-a-kind French fancy that casts its spell the moment you arrive. Located between a shimmering lake and a mountain (yes, really), it’s filled with ridiculously gorgeous rooms for celebrations of all sizes.
Our favourites include the Tresserve and Salle du Lac, which are located on the upper level and have a veranda which can accommodate up to 220 people for al fresco drinks with serious views.
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to wedding packages, too – if you’re looking for wedding venues in France that deliver finishing touches like personalised guest books and access to its private wine cellar, this is the place. There are also optional extras you can take advantage of, including car park security and a Rolls-Royce rental.
- Location: Savoie, Riviera des Alpes
- Capacity: 30-220
- Accommodation: Five luxury bedrooms
3. Domaine Le Grand Belly
If you’re the kind of couple who dreams of combining a dreamy chateau wedding in France with activities such as kayaking, hiking or sailing over the course of the weekend, let us point you in the direction of Domaine Le Grand Belly.
The beautiful 13th century property retains many of its original period features and delivers a rather alluring double whammy of Provençal-style romance and country charm – couples will arrive to the sight of lavender fields, vineyards and olive trees, all bathed in that unmistakable warm light only found in southern France.
Despite its vast dimensions (there’s more than 1,000 hectares to explore), this country pad feels beautifully serene and remote, with several spots to take advantage of for your vows and reception. So many spots, in fact, you can move from one area to another as the story of your day unfolds: cocktails in the garden, dinner in the courtyard, evening pool party on the terrace… Decisions, decisions!
- Location: Rochefort-du-Gard, Gard
- Capacity: 50-300
- Accommodation: Sleeps up to 50 guests
4. Château La Tour Vaucros
Sitting pretty in the heart of Provence, Château La Tour Vaucros is a luxurious pad of enormous proportions – with a pretty hefty capacity to go with it. Lush grounds, charming yet elegant interiors and a real Mediterranean-style atmosphere are just some of the things that await couples who tie the knot at this French chateau.
Choose a romantic garden ceremony or say your vows in one of the chateau’s two reception rooms – both of which are steeped in character and boast warm and inviting period décor. The two spaces combined will seat 350 guests and host 600 for a cocktail reception, so you’re sure to have enough space to throw some shapes after your third glass of rosé (don't mind if we do).
- Location: Sorgues, Vaucluse
- Capacity: 30-600
- Accommodation: Space for 49 overnight guests
5. Château de Courcelles Le Roy
Nestled in the charming town of Beaulieu-sur-Loire, this magical wedding chateau in France has goosebump-inducing surroundings that feel an entire world away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Set in the most immaculate parkland – which includes a private swimming pool – there are also several outbuildings at Château de Courcelles Le Roy to make use of alongside the main house. Choose from the elegant and spacious dining room with its exposed barn-like beams, then the lounge or the bar for your after-party – unless you’d prefer to celebrate outside on the water’s edge, of course.
There is plenty of accommodation on site here, too, so your guests won’t have far to head when it’s time for carriages.
- Location: Beaulieu-sur-Loire, Loiret
- Capacity: Up to 180
- Accommodation: 19 rooms on site sleeping up to 55 guests
6. Château de La Colaissière
Nestled just six kilometres from the Loire Valley, Château de La Colaissière is a dream-come-true castle surrounded by a medieval moat and drawbridge to ensure you make the most dramatic entrance possible – if you don’t want to arrive by hot air balloon or helicopter, that is.
This 14th century property was also once the seat of the Duchy of Brittany, but it now boasts some of the most beautiful rooms designed for more contemporary living, with elegant and luxurious furnishings that give a nod to its noble past.
Say your vows in the nearby church of St Sauveur de Landemont or within the courtyard walls of the castle. Reception drinks can also take place al fresco or in the grand, steepled Knights Room, with its exposed brickwork and stunning Louis XIV-style chairs.
This region is brimming with wineries, too, so there are plenty of spots for guests to grab a bite and raise a glass over the course of the weekend.
- Location: Saint-Sauveur-de-Landemont, Maine et Loire
- Capacity: 50-140
- Accommodation: 45 beds available on site
7. La Grange de Javon
A charming 13th century building in the heart of Provence, for a long time La Grange de Javon was quite simply an outbuilding of the Château de Javon farming estate – today it takes rustic chic to new heights as a glorious wedding and events space.
It really is a boho bride’s dream, bordered by lavender fields and forest views for miles, and with traditional stone facades. You can say your vows under an open-sided tipi with views of the fields beyond and eat rustic gourmet food with your guests as you soak up the fresh air.
Make the most of the teams trusted book of suppliers too – they’ll cover everything from flowers to catering.
- Location: Sault, Vaucluse
- Capacity: Up to 200
- Accommodation: One honeymoon suite plus four additional bedrooms, sleeping 10 in total
8. Château de Lerse
Possibly one of the prettiest and more unique chateaus in France for a wedding we’ve ever seen, there’s a reason Château de Lerse in the southwestern part of the country has garnered plenty of five-star reviews.
Perfect for couples craving a laidback vibe, there’s a dreamy courtyard for reception drinks as well as a custom-built stretch tent with tables, chairs and heat lamps to ensure you can drink and dine under the stars for as long as you like. Though, if you prefer, you can also mosey on into the purpose-built barn, which boasts its own bar and dancefloor.
Either way, follow it up with a pool party brunch the following day – the whopping 17m x 6m pool even features a state of the art sound system to welcome guests back with a bang (hangover not recommended).
- Location: Pérignac, Charente
- Capacity: 35-250
- Accommodation: There are eight luxury double glamping tents on site, each with toilets and showers
9. Château de Saint-Martin du Tertre
Located just 30 minutes north of the capital, surrounded by postcard-perfect manicured lawns, Château de Saint-Martin du Tertre will provide an unforgettable canvas for your big day.
With plenty of beautiful, historical rooms and a breathtaking colonnade, there are lots of options for exchanging your vows. Our pick for receptions? The exquisite Gala Room with its ornate ceiling, parquet floor and twinkling crystal chandelier. The space comfortably seats 220 but more if you make use of the adjacent rooms.
Be sure to make the most of the incredible staircase for your portrait photos, too. Plus there are preparation rooms and bedrooms aplenty.
- Location: Saint-Martin-du-Tértre, Val-d’Oise
- Capacity: Up to 340
- Accommodation: Space for the couple and 32 additional guests
10. La Trésorière
On a gloriously green five-hectare estate that begs to be Instagrammed, this luxury property offers couples not only the dreamiest of wedding chateaus in France as the backdrop to their day, but full use of a greenhouse, pretty courtyard and even a nomadic tent for those who want a more rustic feel.
Couples can expect nothing less than excellence at La Trésorière when it comes to the arrangements, too: the team promises to tailor every element of your day and is known for its impeccable standards.
We’d highly recommend a post-wedding brunch the following day, but the truth is, you might not want to leave the comfort of your bridal suite. This luxurious outpost has a private jacuzzi and sauna as well as a romantic terrace shaded by a Virginia creeper.
- Location: Maureilhan, Hérault
- Capacity: 50-400
- Accommodation: On-site apartments can accommodate up to 44 guests
11. La Château de Beauvois
Occupying 40 hectares of wooded parkland in the Loire Valley, this exclusive spot is unbeatable when it comes to privacy and elegant settings to tie the knot.
Whether you’re looking to plan an intimate blessing in the manicured gardens on the banks of the Briffaut pond or eat, drink and be merry with your guests in the spacious 120-seat dining room complete with period fireplace, La Château de Beauvois is sure to rise to the occasion. And, for the ultimate knees-up, you and your guests can make the most of the 35 charming rooms for the whole weekend.
- Location: Saint-Étienne-de-Chigny, Indre-et-Loire
- Capacity: 10-120
- Accommodation: 35 rooms on site
12. Domaine de la Maison de Colette
Overlooking – and with direct access to – some of the most beautiful beaches France has to offer, Domaine de la Maison de Colette is a seven-hectare estate that belonged to French author Colette between 1910 and 1926, and is brilliantly geared towards hosting larger weddings.
As well as the main house, couples will have the adjoining bamboo-frame, sea-facing marquee at their disposal for the entire weekend, which comfortably seats 300 for a seated reception. Not only is it the perfect spot to dine and raise a glass, but with zero neighbours, it’s an idyllic option for those who want to dance long into the night.
- Location: Saint-Coulomb, Ille et Vilaine
- Capacity: 50-300
- Accommodation: Two houses available for guests
13. Château des Briottières
Once a family home, now a luxurious four-star hotel, this gem – located in the heart of a 50-hectare park – has the kind of views you dream about when you’re stuck at your desk thinking about… well, your future chateau wedding in France. With shimmering lakes and centuries-old trees as far as the eye can see, there are so many great spots for post-ceremony cocktails and canapés.
Inside Château des Briottières, the décor is just as photogenic, with space to dine and dance until the early hours with loved ones like it was your own home. Those lucky guests who get to stay over are in for a treat, too – there are 10 elegant suites in the main house all boasting four-poster beds, period furniture and come-hither alcoves, with several options in the outbuildings, too.
- Location: Champagne, Maine et Loire
- Capacity: 10-180
- Accommodation: 18 bedrooms in total across the estate
14. Le Mas de la Rose
On the cusp of a peaceful and picturesque village, Le Mas de la Rose is a former 17th century sheepfold renovated into a bucolic wedding venue of dreams.
Take a wander down the flowery paths and exchange vows amid the wildflower and lavender borders, enjoy your first cocktail as newlyweds on the terrace by the private pool (where there will be waiters circulating with trays of hors d’oevres drizzled with the estate’s own olive oil), and have your photos snapped in the shade of the sweet-smelling pine and olive trees.
Inside, there’s plenty to wow your guests with interiors that are packed with farmhouse-style charm – think exposed brickwork and canopies of twinkling fairy lights overhead. Post-wedding, enjoy everything from the tennis courts to bicycles for hire to really make a weekend of it with your loved ones.
- Location: Orgon, Bouches-du-Rhone
- Capacity: 40-150
- Accommodation: There are nine rooms to accommodate staying guests
15. Château d’Aveny
There’s no end to the photo opportunities at this bells-and-whistles estate, ideally located just an hour’s drive from Paris. Château d'Aveny stands amongst a postcard-pretty haven of verdant landscape, which includes formal gardens, elegant architecture and centuries-old trees.
You can say ‘I do’ outside on the lawns of the Rose Garden, in a beautiful clearing on the edge of the forest or on the gravelled terrace, though the indoor options are just as beautiful – think sparkling chandeliers, sumptuous parquet floors, grand staircases and enchanting arched windows that help create a warm and intimate atmosphere.
Couples could even choose the old stables for a pared-back rustic feel. Whatever you decide, expect cocktails and French delicacies of the highest order.
- Location: Dampsmesnil, Eure
- Capacity: 20-200
- Accommodation: 94 beds available
Wedding Chateaus in France FAQ
How much does it cost to get married in a château in France?
A chateau wedding in France certainly has the wow-factor, but it doesn’t come cheap. In fact, it’s a bit of a myth that getting married abroad always comes in less expensive than marrying in the UK. That said, the cost of a French château wedding is pretty comparable to that of a wedding weekend in a stately home venue here in the UK.
“Costs can vary widely, depending on the region, season, guest count and how lavish the couple’s vision is,” says Charlotte Ricard-Quesada, founder and creative director at La Fête.
“For a beautifully planned French château wedding with around 80-100 guests, you should realistically budget around £100,000 upwards. This would cover venue hire, catering, planning and design, flowers, entertainment, photography and accommodation for a few nights.”
Smaller chateau and dry-hire venues will offer plenty of flexibility and may come in cheaper in some cases, but keep in mind that you will need to budget for everything else on the list.
What is included in a French château wedding package?
“Typically French chateau wedding packages will include exclusive use of the property and its grounds, on-site accommodation for a select number of guests, and often a dedicated events team or planner who is familiar with the property,” says Charlotte.
“You can usually expect basics such as tables, chairs, and sometimes crockery and linens too. Some venues will also offer in-house catering or direct you to trusted local suppliers,” she adds.
Do French châteaux offer wedding planning services?
If you’re booking a wedding package as opposed to a dry-hire venue, most French wedding chateaux will offer in-house planners to lend a hand with the celebrations in the run-up and on the day, or at the very least be able to recommend a trusted local event planner. That said, always check before you book.
If you want something truly bespoke from start to finish, there are plenty of luxury wedding planners in the UK who are more than familiar with many wedding venues in France and who can tailor every element of the day to your vision.
Are château wedding venues in France available year-round?
Yes, wedding chateaus in France are generally available all year round, though – much like in the UK – will get booked up quickly during peak wedding season (May to September).
How far in advance should I book a château wedding venue?
“Ideally, couples should begin planning and secure their venue at least 12-18 months in advance, particularly if they have a specific region, season or château in mind,” says Charlotte. “Some of the more popular venues can book out up to two years ahead, especially for peak summer weekends.
“Planning a destination wedding is a beautiful journey but one that benefits immensely from time so we can weave every detail together seamlessly and without compromise!” she adds.
Can foreigners legally get married in France?
“The legal aspect is often the most intricate part,” says Charlotte. “For UK couples, having a legally binding ceremony in France requires at least one partner to have been a resident in the country for a minimum of 40 consecutive days prior to the civil ceremony. For this reason, most couples choose to handle the legal side back in the UK, often with a small registry office ceremony, and then celebrate their symbolic or religious wedding in France.
“This allows for full creative freedom, a more relaxed experience and no compromise on the beauty and emotional significance on the day,” she adds.
Discover more French wedding venues here.
