Seven centuries of Breton history
Beneath the airs of a Renaissance manor, the Château de Careil hides a rich past as a medieval defensive site. Built as early as the 14th century with a walkway and machicolations, it belongs to the lordship of Careil attested since 1471.
In the 16th century, the château became a protestant stronghold under Jean du Bouays: it was here that the Huguenots retreated from Le Croisic during the religious wars. The building added at this time is one of the finest examples of Breton Renaissance architecture.
Occupied and furnished year-round, the château is open for visits with its original rooms and collections that trace the history of its various occupants, from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Three visits, three atmospheres
Classic visit: guided tour of approximately 1 hour of the inhabited interiors. Every day from June to August, at 11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00. Adult 6 € · Child 5 €.
Game visit: for children aged 5 to 12, who embody a privateer or the lord of the château. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 17:00, in July-August. Adult 7 € · Child 6 €.
Candlelit visit: nocturnal show visit with the character of Cyrano de Bergerac performing the duel or nose monologue. Monday and Wednesday at 21:30, in July-August. Adult 10 €.
Prices may change · Please consult careil.com for confirmation.
Practical information
33 rue du Château de Careil
44350 Guérande
No credit card on site
The château also hosts birthdays (ages 5-12) and weddings.
From L'Écrin des Nymphes
The Château de Careil is approximately 5 km from the studio. Allow 10 minutes by car via the D92, 20 minutes by bike (the bikes from L'Écrin are at your disposal) or 2 minutes by bus via the Lila Presqu'île line to the Careil stop.
Ideal to combine with a walk in the salt marshes of Guérande or a lunch in the medieval town of Guérande, just a few kilometres away.
Antonin's advice
« My top pick: the candlelit visit in July-August. The nocturnal atmosphere with Cyrano in the furnished rooms is worth the trip, it’s very different from a classic museum visit. For children, the game visit on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday turns them into lords or privateers for 1 hour, they love it. Remember to bring cash or a cheque book: no credit card on site. »
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Château de Careil located?
The Château de Careil is located at 33 rue du Château de Careil, 44350 Guérande, just 1 km from La Baule. Allow about 10 minutes by car from L'Écrin des Nymphes.
What types of visits are offered?
The château offers 3 visits: the classic guided tour (June to August, several slots from 11:00 to 18:00), the game visit for children aged 5-12 (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 17:00 in July-August) and the candlelit visit at 21:30 with Cyrano de Bergerac (Monday and Wednesday in July-August).
What are the prices?
Classic visit: Adult 6 € · Child 5 €. Game visit: Adult 7 € · Child 6 €. Candlelit visit: Adult 10 €. Prices may change, please consult careil.com for current rates.
How to pay for the visit?
The château only accepts payments in cash, cheques and holiday vouchers. No credit card on site. Please plan to bring cash or a cheque book.
Is the château open all year round?
Every day from early June to late August. The rest of the year, guided tours are possible by reservation, as well as every day except Saturday during the short school holidays. Please consult the detailed schedule on careil.com.
Is the château accessible to people with reduced mobility?
As the château is a historic monument that is inhabited, some parts (notably the upper floors) are not accessible to wheelchairs. The inner courtyard and the ground floor remain accessible. Please contact the château directly to prepare your visit.