Top 6 Castles around Beauvais

The Oise department surrounding Beauvais offers several historically rich châteaux. Highlights include the 17th-century Château de Boury, known for its classical architecture and French gardens, and the Renaissance-style Château de Troissereux with its unique 'Tower of Time' and extensive park. You can also explore Saint-Cyr Castle, set in a quiet countryside, and the medieval Château de Crèvecœur, which has royal connections.

Yes, several castles in the area are suitable for families. Château de Boury offers activities for children and a large park with a playground. Saint-Cyr Castle and Château de Crèvecœur are also categorized as family-friendly, providing historical exploration in engaging settings.

The region boasts a variety of architectural styles. Château de Troissereux is a prime example of 15th and 16th-century Renaissance architecture with its distinctive brick and white limestone. The Château de Boury, designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, showcases the elegant French classical style of the late 17th century. Additionally, Château de Crèvecœur represents a blend of medieval fortress and Renaissance reconstruction.

Absolutely. The Château de Troissereux is set within a 12-hectare park, attributed to Bernard Palissy, featuring an arboretum, moats, and canals, and serving as a natural bird sanctuary. The Château de Boury boasts a 4-hectare park with meticulously maintained French gardens and elegant outbuildings.

The area around Beauvais offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Gerberoy centre ville — loop' or 'Le Dolmen des Trois Pierres — loop from Delincourt,' which are moderate in difficulty. For easier walks, consider routes like the 'Plan d'Eau du Canada loop from Fouquenies.' Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Beauvais to the Memory Cycle Route via the Plateau Picard.' You can explore more options in the Hiking around Beauvais or Gravel biking around Beauvais guides.

While specific trails directly *within* every castle's grounds might vary, the region offers many routes that pass near or provide views of these historical sites. For instance, you can find easy hiking loops around Gerberoy, which is close to some of the castles. The extensive park of Château de Troissereux also provides pleasant walking opportunities.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for visiting the castles around Beauvais. The weather is pleasant for exploring the grounds and gardens, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful. Some castles, like Château de Boury, are open from mid-April to mid-October, making these seasons perfect for a visit.

Beyond the more prominent sites, the Saint-Cyr Castle is described as a magnificent estate lost in the middle of nowhere, offering a quiet countryside experience. The Château de Crèvecœur, despite its royal past, might also be considered a hidden gem as it underwent significant restoration after a period of abandonment.

Yes, guided tours are available at some locations. The Château de Boury offers guided tours allowing visitors to see the period kitchen, salons, and chapel. Château de Merlemont also provides guided tours upon request, offering a 35-minute visit experience through its centuries of history.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical architecture and natural beauty. Many enjoy the elegant architecture and French gardens of places like Château de Boury, and the unique features and extensive parks of Château de Troissereux. The quiet, picturesque settings of castles like Saint-Cyr Castle are also highly valued.

Yes, the Château de Crèvecœur has a notable royal past, having welcomed François I in 1520 and witnessing visits from Louis XIV, who even spent a night there on July 15, 1680.

For specific opening hours, tour availability, and visitor information, it's best to check the official websites or contact the castles directly. For example, you can find information for Château de Merlemont on visitbeauvais.fr, and for Château de Troissereux on visitbeauvais.fr or visitacity.com. Château de Boury is typically open on Sundays and public holidays from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. during its opening period.