Top 3 Castles around Pernant
Castles around Pernant offer a glimpse into centuries of history and architectural evolution in the Aisne department. The region is characterized by its historical significance, featuring structures that range from medieval military strongholds to transformed residential châteaux. These sites often stand overlooking valleys, providing historical context to the surrounding landscape. Pernant itself is home to the notable Château de Pernant, a medieval fortress that showcases the area's rich past.
Best castles around Pernant
- The most popular castles is Septmont Keep…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Septmont Keep
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Vic-sur-Aisne Castle
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Septmont
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On August 1, 1835, Victor Hugo, while traveling, wrote: “Two places from Soissons ... in a …
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Pernant Castle — 700 years
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Château de Gabrielle d'Estrées
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Located in the Aisne region, Septmonts Castle was originally the country residence of the bishops of Soissons. Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, it retains several original features, such as the so-called Saint-Louis Room. Visitors can discover a 14th-century keep and square tower, as well as a 16th-century Renaissance pavilion. Bombed during the First World War, Septmonts Castle is now classified as a historical monument for its chapel and keep, and an inscription for the rest of the buildings. The impressive keep is over forty meters high and consists of seven stories of complex architecture. Septmonts Castle itself is adorned with a park featuring an arboretum and an orchard. The entire complex is open to the public, and the Renaissance residence also hosts temporary exhibitions. Every June, the site hosts the Pic'Arts rock festival concerts.
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Bakery, bar, tobacconist... Perfect for starting and finishing a hike
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Ideal for starting a hike
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In the heart of the village of Vic-sur-Aisne, surrounded by a leafy park and overlooking the Aisne valley, lies the imposing Château de Vic-sur-Aisne. What today appears to be an elegant country house, bears in its walls the traces of a turbulent past. Originally built on the foundations of a medieval castrum, the estate grew in the 17th century into a stately castle, with symmetrical facades, round towers and an impressive thirteen-metre high keep — a remnant from the 13th century. The architecture reflects the transition from defensive structure to residential comfort: robust, but refined. The gardens, partly in French style with straight lines and box hedges, partly in English landscape style with winding paths and romantic corners, invite you to stroll and contemplate.
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The Château de Pernant is a modest-sized medieval fortress located in Pernant, in the Soissonnais region of France. It is the historic monumental part of a larger whole, the Pernant estate, which serves as a cultural and musical center. The castle dates from the 14th/15th century and was rebuilt in the 16th century. During the First World War the area was bombed, causing extensive damage to the castle.
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The Donjon de Septmonts is a medieval tower in the French village of Septmonts, located near Soissons, in the Hauts-de-France region. The tower was built in the 14th century and was originally part of a castle that served as a residence for the bishops of Soissons. The tower is 47 meters high and has seven floors. It is a striking example of the princely style of the late 14th century, combining both military and residential functions. The tower is currently undergoing a restoration programme.
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The Keep of Septmonts is a 14th century tower which was once the residence of the bishops of Soissons. The tower is 45 meters high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the park and arboretum surrounding the tower, where you will find a variety of trees, plants and flowers from different continents. The park also has a picnic area, playground and vineyard that reflects the local wine heritage. The Donjon de Septmonts is open every day from May to September and on weekends the rest of the year. Entrance is free and you can enjoy a guided tour or a self-guided tour with an audio guide. The Donjon de Septmonts is a privileged place to discover the history and nature of this charming village in Aisne.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Pernant?
The Pernant region offers a diverse range of castles, from medieval military strongholds to châteaux that have evolved into comfortable residences. You can find impressive keeps like Septmont Keep, which combines military and residential functions, and historical sites like Vic-sur-Aisne Castle, showcasing a transition from defensive structures to elegant country houses. There are also ruins, such as Pernant Castle, that offer a glimpse into the area's past.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Pernant?
Yes, several castles in the region are suitable for families. Septmont Keep and Vic-sur-Aisne Castle are both categorized as family-friendly. Septmont Keep features a park with an arboretum and orchard, while Vic-sur-Aisne Castle is surrounded by a leafy park with both French and English-style gardens, ideal for strolling.
What historical insights do the castles around Pernant offer?
The castles provide a rich historical narrative. Septmont Keep, a 14th-century tower, was once a residence for the bishops of Soissons and is a striking example of princely style. Vic-sur-Aisne Castle reflects centuries of architectural change, from a medieval castrum to a stately residence. Even the ruins of Pernant Castle, a 14th-century military stronghold, tell a story of its past, including damage from World War I.
Can I visit the Château de Pernant?
The Château de Pernant is a medieval fortress that suffered extensive damage during World War I and is now largely in ruins. While it is private property and not accessible for direct entry, visitors can observe the castle from the public road and appreciate its historical significance as one of the last remaining examples of 14th-century military architecture in the Aisne department. It is sometimes part of a larger domain that hosts cultural activities.
Are there hiking opportunities near the castles?
Yes, the region around Pernant offers various hiking trails. You can find routes like the 'Château de Pernant — loop' which is an easy 6 km hike, or more challenging options like 'Le Ru de Juvigny — loop from Pommiers'. For more details and routes, explore the Hiking around Pernant guide.
What other outdoor activities are available near Pernant's castles?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy mountain biking and road cycling. There are numerous MTB trails, including 'Pernant Castle — 700 years – The Fontenoy ponds loop', and road cycling routes such as 'Château de Gabrielle d'Estrées – Berzy Le Sec - The castle loop'. You can find more information in the MTB Trails around Pernant and Road Cycling Routes around Pernant guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Pernant?
The castles and their surrounding parks can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the grounds and nearby trails, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and cultural events, such as the Pic'Arts rock festival hosted at Septmont Keep every June. Even in winter, the historical structures retain their charm, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any castles associated with famous historical figures?
Yes, the Château de Gabrielle d'Estrées is a historical castle that allows visitors to imagine the daily life of Gabrielle d'Estrées, a significant figure in French history known for her relationship with King Henry IV. This site offers a unique connection to the past.
What natural features or viewpoints can I find near the castles?
Many castles are situated in scenic locations. Vic-sur-Aisne Castle, for instance, overlooks the Aisne valley and is surrounded by a beautiful leafy park with both French and English-style gardens. The keep of Septmont (Septmont Keep) dominates one of the most beautiful villages of the Aisne, offering picturesque views of the surrounding area.
What do visitors appreciate most about the castles in this region?
Visitors often appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The impressive architecture, such as the 47-meter high Septmont Keep, and the serene park settings, like those at Vic-sur-Aisne Castle, are frequently highlighted. The opportunity to explore ruins and imagine past eras, as with Pernant Castle, also resonates with many.
Is there parking available at the castles?
While specific parking details for each castle are not always provided, many historical sites in rural areas typically have some form of parking nearby or in the closest village. For Pernant Castle, you can observe it from the public road, suggesting roadside access. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most accurate parking information.
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