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Château de la Hunaudaye

4.5
·2k reviews·Plédéliac, France

Explore a 13th-century medieval fortress with five towers, a moat, and ramparts, offering a journey back in time.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Un cadre bucolique...
© Cédric Bossard

Château de la Hunaudaye

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a 13th-century medieval fortress with five towers, a moat, and ramparts, offering a journey back in time.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"An amazing adventure and a really well restored Château, great walks along the walls and up and down the turrets."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Steep steps in towers! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring ramparts and forest paths.

🏰 Kids' Dress-Up Fun

Interactive dress-up boxes available for children (and adults!) to enhance the medieval experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Five Towers

The Five Towers

Throughout the Château

Explore the unique residential, defensive, chapel, and storage towers, each offering a glimpse into medieval life and strategic design.

Moat and Drawbridge

Moat and Drawbridge

Entrance

Experience the classic medieval fortress imagery with its water-filled moat and impressive drawbridge, a truly picturesque scene.

Medieval Gastronomy & Games

Medieval Gastronomy & Games

Exhibition Areas

Discover the culinary traditions and playful pastimes of the Middle Ages through interactive exhibits and workshops.

Rampart Walks

Rampart Walks

Castle Walls

Stroll along the ancient ramparts for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a unique perspective of the fortress.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Medieval Adventure

Visit during off-peak hours to truly soak in the medieval atmosphere. Weekday mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to explore the five towers and ramparts without the hustle and bustle. Consider checking their event schedule for special medieval reenactments or workshops.

Accessibility & Exploration

While the main courtyard is accessible, the real magic lies in climbing the steep steps of the five towers. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the ramparts and surrounding forest paths. The castle offers a dress-up box for kids, adding an interactive element to the visit.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Event Days
Why
Medieval reenactments
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

En visite au château de La Hunaudaye à Plédéliac, les élèves de 5ème ont découvert l'époque médiévale sous plusieurs aspects : visite du château mais aussi découverte de jeux et initiation à la gastronomie du Moyen-Age 👑
collegeplouguenastlangast
64 likes • 1.1K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Steep steps in towers! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring ramparts and forest paths. Reddit

🏰 Kids' Dress-Up Fun

Interactive dress-up boxes available for children (and adults!) to enhance the medieval experience. Reddit

Connaissez vous le château de la Hunaudaye en Bretagne ? ✨ Un endroit plutôt secret qu'on a décidé de vous présenter aujourd'hui !
gitesdefranceenbretagne
74 likes • 1.7K views
https://www.instagram.com/chateau_de_la_hunaudaye/ #bretagne #chateaudehunaudaye Beautiful medieval Castle 🤩🥰😍. Destroyed 1793 during the french Revolution 😢. 5 Türme: 2 Wohntürme (für die Herrschaft & die Knechte/Soldaten), ein "Kapellen"turm (außergewöhnliche Reliefs um den Türbogen🤓), ein Wehrturm und ein Lagerturm.
don_r_macedo
32 likes • 419 views

🌳 Explore the Moat & Forest

Don't miss a walk around the moat or a hike in the surrounding forest for beautiful scenery. Reddit

🗺️ Multilingual Information

Information boards are available in multiple languages, making history accessible to all visitors. Reddit

Zoologistes de château fort 🦔🏰 Laissez-vous guider à travers les cinq tours du château de la Hunaudaye et découvrez la petite histoire du lieu comme la grande histoire du Moyen Age. C’est aussi découvrir un château-fort tel qu’on l’imagine avec ses douves en eau et son pont-levis. La visite emprunte les anciens chemins de ronde pour mieux comprendre le système défensif et les logis seigneuriaux. ...
cotes.darmor
215 likes • 6.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Steep steps in towers! Wear sturdy shoes for exploring ramparts and forest paths. Reddit

🏰 Kids' Dress-Up Fun

Interactive dress-up boxes available for children (and adults!) to enhance the medieval experience. Reddit

🌳 Explore the Moat & Forest

Don't miss a walk around the moat or a hike in the surrounding forest for beautiful scenery. Reddit

🗺️ Multilingual Information

Information boards are available in multiple languages, making history accessible to all visitors. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The ramparts offer stunning photo opportunities of the castle and its surroundings. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Château de la Hunaudaye for its well-organized and interesting medieval experience, with many highlighting the interactive elements for children and the scenic beauty of the ruins. While some note the steepness of tower stairs and a desire for more preserved artifacts, the overall sentiment is positive, with many recommending it as a worthwhile visit for its historical charm and engaging atmosphere.

"Well organised, friendly and an interesting place to visit. The entrance and main courtyard are suitable for those with mobility concerns but the se real towers have very steep steps. Well worth the effort for the views and the wildlife."

Iain Walker

"It’s a very nice castle, very good view and interesting history overview; enough places at the parking lot; easy to navigate and get there. next to the castle you can find an amazing Crêperie for a lunch - delicious food and excellent service."

Svitlana Tretiakova

"I first visited here 20 years ago and it was a great experience then.
This time round so much has been developed and added. It is an amazing adventure and a really well restored Château. Great walks along the walls and up and down the turrets. A dress up box for the kids and the adults that have never grown up.
We had a great time and will be back again soon for a walk round the moat."

James Hunt

What People Like

Well-organized and interesting
Interactive for kids
Scenic beauty

What People Dislike

Steep tower stairs
Desire for more artifacts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Château de la Hunaudaye is located in Plédéliac, Côtes-d'Armor, Brittany. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. InstagramReddit Many visitors arrive by car as part of a road trip through Brittany. Instagram

Public transport options directly to the castle are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a car or consider local taxi services if not driving. Instagram mentions a hike, suggesting it's a destination for those exploring the region.

The castle is well-signposted from the nearest towns. Use GPS navigation with the address 'Château de la Hunaudaye, 22270 Plédéliac, France' for precise directions. Instagram

Cycling is a great way to explore the scenic Breton countryside. The castle is situated in an area suitable for cycling tours, with routes often passing through charming villages. Instagram

Yes, the castle is generally easy to find and navigate to, with clear signage from nearby roads. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Château de la Hunaudaye website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

Admission fees are typically reasonable. Check the official website for current ticket prices, as they may differ for adults, children, and special events. Instagram

Booking in advance is usually not required for general visits, but it's a good idea during peak season or for special events to secure your entry. Instagram mentions participation in European Heritage Days, which might require booking.

Discounts may be available for children, students, or groups. Inquire directly with the castle administration or check their website for any special offers. Instagram

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted inside the castle itself, but they are welcome in the surrounding forest and moat areas for walks. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the five distinct towers, walk the ramparts, cross the drawbridge over the moat, and discover exhibits on medieval life, including games and gastronomy. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Children can enjoy interactive elements like a dress-up box and learning about medieval games and life. InstagramReddit

This medieval fortress dates back to the 13th century and played a role in French history, including its destruction in 1793. Instagram+2

Self-guided tours are the primary way to explore, with information available in multiple languages. InstagramReddit Special events might offer guided experiences.

This exhibition allows visitors to rediscover the site in a new way, offering insights into the castle's history and significance. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might not be a full restaurant on-site, there are often picnic areas. Nearby, you can find excellent crêperies for a delicious Breton meal. Reddit

Yes, picnic areas are usually available, allowing you to enjoy a meal amidst the historic surroundings. Reddit

A highly recommended nearby option is an amazing crêperie offering delicious food and excellent service, perfect for lunch after your visit. Reddit

Information on on-site cafes or snack bars is limited, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at a nearby establishment. Reddit

Brittany is famous for its crêpes and galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes), as well as fresh seafood and cider. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The moat with the drawbridge, the ramparts offering panoramic views, and the unique architectural details of the five towers are prime photo locations. Instagram+1

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with the castle administration for their specific policy on drone photography. Instagram shows a drone shot, suggesting it might be permitted under certain conditions.

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the medieval atmosphere. Early mornings can also offer softer light and fewer people. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage within the exhibits. Instagram

Focus on the imposing structure, the surrounding natural beauty, and the details that tell the story of its medieval past. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Château de la Hunaudaye is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive dress-up box is a huge hit, allowing kids to fully immerse themselves in the medieval theme. Reddit The castle's exhibits on medieval games and food are also engaging and educational for younger visitors. Instagram

While exploring the towers involves steep steps, the main courtyard is accessible. Consider bringing snacks or planning a stop at a nearby crêperie for a family-friendly meal. Reddit The surrounding forest and moat offer additional space for kids to explore and burn off energy.

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about history, Château de la Hunaudaye offers a deep dive into 13th-century medieval architecture and its turbulent past. Explore the five distinct towers, each with its own story and function, and walk the ramparts for a strategic perspective. Instagram+1

The castle's history, including its destruction during the French Revolution, is well-documented with multilingual information boards. Reddit The site's preservation and ongoing development make it a compelling visit for understanding medieval fortifications and French history.

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Château de la Hunaudaye presents numerous picturesque opportunities. The moat and drawbridge create a classic fortress image, perfect for dramatic shots. Instagram The ramparts offer sweeping views, ideal for landscape photography, while the unique architectural details of the five towers provide intricate subjects. Instagram+1

Golden hour in the late afternoon often yields stunning light, enhancing the castle's medieval charm. Instagram Be sure to capture the imposing structure against the Breton landscape for truly memorable photos.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Medieval Architecture

Château de la Hunaudaye is a remarkable example of medieval military architecture, dating back to around 1220. Its strategic design includes a moat and drawbridge, classic features meant to deter attackers. The fortress is characterized by its five distinct towers, each serving a specific purpose: two residential towers (for the lord and soldiers), a chapel tower with unique reliefs around its archway, a defensive tower, and a storage tower. Instagram+1 This complex structure highlights the evolution of castle design in the 13th century.

The castle experienced significant historical events, including its destruction in 1793 during the French Revolution. Instagram Despite its ruined state, much of its original grandeur is preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance. The restoration efforts have focused on making the site accessible and informative, offering a tangible connection to the past. Reddit

Exploring the ramparts provides a commanding view of the surrounding landscape, offering insight into the castle's defensive positioning. The self-guided tours, supported by multilingual information, make it easy for visitors to understand the castle's layout and history. Reddit The combination of architectural remnants and historical context makes Château de la Hunaudaye a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.

Interactive Family Fun at the Castle

Château de la Hunaudaye is not just a historical site; it's an adventure playground for families. The castle actively engages younger visitors with fun, interactive elements. A popular feature is the dress-up box, where children (and even adults!) can don medieval costumes, transforming their visit into a truly immersive experience. Reddit This playful approach helps bring history to life and sparks imagination.

Beyond costumes, the castle offers insights into medieval life through exhibits on games and gastronomy. Instagram These displays provide a glimpse into the daily routines, entertainment, and culinary practices of the Middle Ages, making history relatable and exciting for kids. The castle's design, with its towers and ramparts, also provides ample space for exploration and imaginative play, encouraging children to discover the fortress at their own pace. Instagram

Parents often appreciate the relaxed ambiance and the availability of information in multiple languages, ensuring everyone in the family can learn and enjoy the visit. Reddit The surrounding grounds, including the moat and forest, also offer opportunities for outdoor activities, making it a well-rounded family outing. Instagram+1

The Legend of the 'Soufflou'

Adding to the mystique of Château de la Hunaudaye is the local legend of the 'soufflou,' a ghost said to haunt the ruins. Instagram This folklore contributes to the castle's atmospheric appeal, making it a place of intrigue and storytelling. While the historical facts are fascinating, the whispers of the supernatural add another layer of enchantment for visitors.

The castle's history is rich with tales, and the 'soufflou' legend is one of the most enduring. It's said to be the spirit of someone connected to the castle's past, adding a touch of mystery to the already captivating medieval setting. This element of local folklore is often a point of interest for those who visit, blending historical exploration with a touch of the uncanny.

While the primary draw is the impressive medieval architecture and history, the legend of the 'soufflou' enhances the overall experience, making Château de la Hunaudaye a destination that appeals to both history buffs and those who enjoy a good local tale. Instagram

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