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Château de la Roche Courbon: A Fairytale Fortress

Discover a majestic French château with remarkable gardens, prehistoric caves, and a rich history in Saint-Porchaire, Charente-Maritime.

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The Château de la Roche Courbon, nestled in Saint-Porchaire, France, is a stunning castle dating back to the 15th century, transformed into a luxurious residence in the 17th century. Known as the 'Sleeping Beauty's castle' , it features remarkable French gardens set on stilts, prehistoric caves, and a museum, offering a captivating journey through time.

A brief summary to Chateau de la Roche Courbon

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Take a guided tour to explore the castle's interior and learn about its history.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive gardens and prehistoric caves.
  • Allow at least 3 hours for a comprehensive visit of the castle and grounds.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the designated area or have a meal at the on-site restaurant.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Château de la Roche Courbon via public transport, start from Saintes. Take bus line 172 from STE Gare Routière de Saintes to SPC Salle des Fêtes in Saint-Porchaire. The bus ride takes approximately 24 minutes and costs €3. From SPC Salle des Fêtes, the château is a short walk away. Check the bus schedule in advance as services are limited.

  • Taxi

    For a quicker journey to Château de la Roche Courbon, take a taxi from Saintes. The taxi ride from Saintes to Saint-Porchaire typically takes around 13 minutes and costs between €30 and €40. Taxis are available in Saintes, but it is advisable to book in advance. Alternatively, a taxi from Saint-Porchaire to Chateau de la Roche Courbon will cost approximately €59.

  • Driving

    If driving to Château de la Roche Courbon, use the GPS coordinates 45°50'10.80'N, 0°46'55.13'O. The château is located in Saint-Porchaire, approximately 20 minutes from Saintes. From Saintes, follow the D114 and D122 to Saint-Porchaire. Free parking is available at the château. Be aware that the approach to the parking area can be narrow but is manageable for larger vehicles.

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Discover more about Chateau de la Roche Courbon

Château de la Roche Courbon, located in the commune of Saint-Porchaire in the Charente-Maritime department, is a jewel of Saintonge. Built in the 15th century on a rocky spur, the fortress was converted into a comfortable dwelling in the 17th century by Marquis Jean-Louis de Courbon. The site has evidence of human occupation dating back to prehistoric times. The castle's architecture showcases a blend of medieval and Renaissance styles. A fortified castle was initially constructed around 1475, consisting of two main buildings, four powerful towers, and a massive keep. Over the centuries, it was transformed into a more elegant residence, featuring a beautiful balcony supported by arcades and a grand staircase leading to the French-style gardens. These gardens, extending over 10 hectares, provide breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, complete with flowerbeds, statues, and ponds. What makes these gardens unique is that they are built on stilts, to overcome the marshy ground. Visitors can explore the castle's interior with a guided tour, discovering period furnishings, tapestries, and family portraits. The wood painting room is a particular highlight. Beneath the castle, prehistoric caves decorated with parietal engravings dating back over 17,000 years offer a glimpse into prehistory. The site also features a museum showcasing archaeological objects and tools from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. The castle is a designated historical monument with gardens labeled as remarkable.

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