Top 5 Castles around Croisilles

The region around Croisilles offers a diverse range of historical sites. You can find medieval fortresses, grand 18th-century mansions, and sites with significant historical remains. These structures showcase different architectural styles and provide a glimpse into centuries of history in the Pas-de-Calais department.

Yes, the region boasts several well-preserved medieval castles. The Donjon de Bours, a 14th-century tower with six cylindrical turrets, is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples. Although currently closed to the public, Nogent-le-Roi Castle also retains medieval elements like its surrounding wall and two square towers, despite its current neo-Louis XIII style.

Several castles in the area are suitable for families. Nogent-le-Roi Castle features a magnificent park that is open to the public daily and hosts various exhibitions and events. Château d'Abondant also has a calm park to enjoy. The Remains of Fremont Castle offer a historical site where children can explore the surviving walls and towers.

The Donjon de Bours is a distinctive 14th-century tower built entirely of Artois sandstone with six corbelled cylindrical turrets. Château d'Abondant is a 16th-century castle in the Louis XIII style, characterized by brick harpages and white plaster infill. For a different experience, Château d'Hardelot is a 19th-century neo-Gothic mansion with Victorian and Napoleon III-style furnishings.

Absolutely. The Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer, a 13th-century castle, now houses a museum with diverse collections spanning archaeological findings, Egyptian artifacts, and fine art. The Citadel of Montreuil-sur-Mer showcases seven centuries of military architecture, with parts dating back to the 13th, 15th, and 17th centuries. Château de Cercamp, built on the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey, offers a journey through monastic origins to its use as a residence and military headquarters.

The area around Croisilles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as the 'Château de Mormoulins – Plan d'eau d'Ecluzelles loop' or the 'Château de Maintenon – Eure Riverside Walk loop'. For running, there are trails like the 'Remains of Fremont Castle loop' or the 'Pond panorama loop'. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Croisilles, Road Cycling Routes around Croisilles, and Running Trails around Croisilles guide pages.

The Citadel of Montreuil-sur-Mer allows visitors to stroll along its 3 km long ramparts, offering excellent views of the surrounding countryside. Château d'Hardelot is set amidst charming English-inspired gardens. The Château de Colembert, built on an elevated platform surrounded by stone-edged moats, is visible from the departmental road and is considered the largest château in the Boulonnais region, offering picturesque views of its classical architecture.

Visitors appreciate the rich history and diverse architecture of the castles. For example, the Nogent-le-Roi Castle is loved for its neo-Louis XIII style and magnificent park. The Château de Mormoulins is noted for its historical canals and peaceful atmosphere. The komoot community has shared over 9 photos and given more than 30 upvotes across these highlights, indicating a strong appreciation for their beauty and historical significance.

Château d'Hardelot functions as a cultural center focused on Franco-British relations. It houses a collection of rare objects and often hosts exhibitions and workshops that highlight the historical ties between France and England, making it a unique visit for those interested in this aspect of history.

The Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer, a 13th-century castle, now houses the Château-Musée de Boulogne. This museum features extensive collections, including archaeological findings, Egyptian artifacts (sarcophagi and a mummy), Greek pottery, and fine art, providing a comprehensive cultural and historical experience within its ancient walls.

The best time to visit the castles in the Pas-de-Calais region is generally during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring, and the castle gardens are often in full bloom or displaying beautiful autumn colors. Summer (July and August) is also popular, but can be warmer and more crowded.

Yes, the Château de Cercamp is situated on the site of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey. The current 18th-century edifice and its park retain elements from its monastic past, offering a unique historical perspective that blends religious and aristocratic history.