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Erbray

Top 4 Castles around Erbray

Best castles around Erbray are situated in the Loire-Atlantique department of France, a region rich in historical significance. The area features a mix of historic manors and châteaux, reflecting centuries of architectural evolution. While Erbray itself hosts several historical properties, the immediate vicinity offers impressive castles that provide insight into medieval and Renaissance periods. This landscape provides opportunities to explore historical sites and cultural heritage.

Best castles around Erbray

  • The most popular castles is Châteaubriant Castle, a castle that…

Last updated: June 29, 2026

Châteaubriant Castle

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The Château de Châteaubriant is a medieval castle, heavily remodeled during the Renaissance, located at Châteaubriant in the French department of Loire-Atlantique in the Pays de la Loire region

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Pouancé Castle

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Pouancé Castle is one of the most impressive fortresses in Anjou. You can explore the medieval castle which dates from the 12th century and was a strategic stronghold between the …

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The Golden Room

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The Golden Room is located on the first floor of the Logis Jean de Laval. It is the only room in the château that has retained its original decor.

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Château de la Motte-Glain

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Between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Château de la Motte-Glain illustrates the end of one period, and the beginning of another. Neither a defensive fortress nor a pleasure …

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Popular around Erbray

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Pussy et Gégé
June 10, 2025, La Chambre Dorée

The Golden Room is located on the first floor of the Logis Jean de Laval. It is the only room in the château that has retained its original decor. Before serving as a residence for the court official, and then as a municipal museum in the late 19th century, upon the arrival of the Germans, the Golden Room was reportedly the site of the assassination of Françoise de Foix. Legend has it that Françoise de Foix, married to Jean de Laval, Baron of Châteaubriant and Governor of Brittany, had an extramarital affair with François I between 1516 and 1526. Jealous, Jean de Laval then locked his wife in this room, which was blocked by black curtains and closed shutters, before ordering two barbers to enter her room on the night of October 16-17, 1537, to bleed her wrists and ankles. Legend also tells that every year on this date, the ghost of the Countess reappears in a pool of blood at the stroke of midnight, then her husband arrives from hell to relieve her feet, until the couple climbs onto the balcony and disappears, only to return the following year.

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defended Anjou against the Marches of Brittany - besieged several times during the 100 Years' War

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Pouancé Castle is a fortified castle, surrounded by a moat. It is characterized by imposing walls and round towers. Robust and majestic!

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Between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the Château de la Motte-Glain illustrates the end of one period, and the beginning of another. Neither a defensive fortress nor a pleasure residence, the castle moves with great beauty between the two functions. A schist and tuffeau castle Possibly dating back to the 12th century, the Château de la Motte-Glain was gradually rebuilt during the 15th century. A magnificent residence, the castle forms a Breton home to the north, and a French one to the west, recalling its very border nature. Between the local schist and the Angevin tuffeau, the castle is located between Brittany and Anjou, recalling its complex history and the result of prestigious sponsors. From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. The Château de la Motte-Glain is one of the first Renaissance castles in Loire-Atlantique, before the reconstructions of Châteaubriant and Ancenis. Still very Gothic in its decoration, the castle shows new research by its sponsor, in its staircase towers, and in the use of decoration linked to Santiago de Compostela, the great pilgrimage.

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Paul_C
September 16, 2023, Château de Pouancé

Pouancé Castle is one of the most impressive fortresses in Anjou. You can explore the medieval castle which dates from the 12th century and was a strategic stronghold between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Brittany. You can also enjoy the view of Lake Saint-Aubin and the Verzée River, which surround the castle while you run.

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Paul_C
September 13, 2023, Château de Pouancé

Pouancé Castle is one of the most impressive fortresses in Anjou. You can explore the medieval castle which dates from the 12th century and was a strategic stronghold between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Brittany. You can also enjoy the view of Lake Saint-Aubin and the Verzée River, which surround the castle. The castle is open for guided tours from mid-June to mid-September, Tuesday to Saturday at 10:30 a.m.

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Very beautiful castle allowing you to see the evolution of architecture throughout history. It is one of the rare castles where we find the medieval part with its keep, drawbridge, watchtower on the walls..., a barrel part with brick and clay arcades and a renaissance part with the bedroom by Françoise de Foix. A visit to make

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Until now I thought that Châteaubriand was only a writer. In fact, René de Châteaubriand was born in Saint-Malo, and died in Paris in 1848. In short, it is not certain that he passed through this city, but in any case he comes from this great French family. The town takes its name from Brient, the lord who founded the castle in the 9th century.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which castles near Erbray offer a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture?

The Château de la Motte-Glain is an excellent example, showcasing a beautiful transition between Medieval and Renaissance styles. It was rebuilt in the 15th century and is considered one of the first Renaissance châteaux in Loire-Atlantique.

Are there any castles near Erbray that were significant in the historical conflicts between France and Brittany?

Yes, both Châteaubriant Castle and Pouancé Castle played crucial roles. Châteaubriant Castle was established in the 11th century on the Marches de Bretagne to defend Brittany against Anjou. Pouancé Castle, a 12th-century fortress, was a strategic stronghold between the Kingdom of France and the Duchy of Brittany.

What are the visiting hours for Château de la Motte-Glain?

The Château de la Motte-Glain is privately owned but typically open to the public from June 15th to September 15th, daily except Tuesdays, from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM. It also opens during heritage days. Group visits can be arranged by reservation throughout the year. For more details, you can visit the Châteaubriant Tourism website.

Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Erbray?

Absolutely. Châteaubriant Castle, Pouancé Castle, and Château de la Motte-Glain are all considered family-friendly and offer rich historical experiences that can engage visitors of all ages.

Can I explore the interiors of these castles?

Yes, for example, Châteaubriant Castle features the Golden Room, which is the only interior of the Renaissance complex accessible all year round. Pouancé Castle offers guided tours from mid-June to mid-September. The Château de la Motte-Glain also allows public visits during its open season.

What kind of historical figures are associated with the castles in this region?

The castles around Erbray have hosted notable figures. For instance, Château de la Motte-Glain welcomed Charles VIII and Anne of Brittany in 1497, and Charles IX and Catherine de' Medici in 1565. Châteaubriant Castle is famously associated with Françoise de Foix.

Are there any châteaux near Erbray that also offer accommodation or dining?

While not a traditional historical castle tour, the Domaine de La Ferrière in Châteaubriant, a short distance from Erbray, operates as a 19th-century château hotel, restaurant, and event venue. It offers a peaceful and picturesque environment within a 10-hectare wooded park.

What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?

The region around Erbray offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, general cycling tours, and hiking trails that often pass by or offer views of these historical sites. For example, there are cycling loops connecting Châteaubriant Castle and Pouancé Castle.

Are there any castles with scenic viewpoints?

Yes, Pouancé Castle offers beautiful views of Lake Saint-Aubin and the Verzée River, which surround the fortress. Its strategic location provides picturesque scenery.

What makes Châteaubriant Castle unique?

Châteaubriant Castle is unique for its architectural evolution, showcasing both medieval fortifications and significant Renaissance remodels. Visitors can see the medieval keep, ramparts, and a Renaissance residential complex, including the famous Golden Room.

Are there any lesser-known historical manors in Erbray itself?

Within Erbray, there are historic manors such as Manoir de la Maurivière and Château de La Haie-Besnous, dating back to the 16th century. While historically significant, detailed public access information for these specific properties is often limited, as some may be private residences or have evolved in function, like La Cantraie which is now an equestrian center.

What is the best way to explore the area's castles by bike?

Komoot offers several road cycling and touring bicycle routes around Erbray that connect various castles and historical sites. These routes vary in difficulty, allowing you to choose one that suits your fitness level while enjoying the scenic countryside and historical landmarks.

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Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Erbray:

Saint-Mars-Du-DésertHéricNotre-Dame-Des-Landes

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