You can stay in an abandoned French chateau – while it gets restored
If you want to know what it was like to live like a French aristocrat in the 1700s, now's your chance – well, sort of. A mother-daughter duo has teamed up to turn an abandoned, historic chateau in France into a bustling bed and breakfast, and are inviting guests to come stay during the renovations.
Located in Villefrancœur, Center-Val de Loire, France, Château de Freschines is surrounded by 26 hectares of trees. Rich with history, the castle was built in the 16th century and later rebuilt in the 18th century.
It was once home to prominent French chemist Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier, according to Messy Nessy Chic. In 2019, architect Elisabeth Herring and her daughter Valerie bought the chateau after six years of vacancy and neglect. Almost immediately after beginning their restoration, the pair began listing rooms on Airbnb.
The massive castle has 30 rooms, including 14 shared bathrooms, and can host up to 16 guests at present. Great for both individuals and groups, you can book a room or rent out the entire chateau. Breakfast is provided, and the local chef can cook dinner if requested.
Outside, you can explore the sprawling property. There’s an adjoining chapel and several outbuildings. Want to see more chateaus? The Château de Freschines is located near the Lorie Valley, which has more than 300 castles. And if you need a drink after touring the opulent aristocratic chateaus, the Lorie Valley is also known for its scenic vineyards.
Past renters appreciated the property's clean rooms and the welcoming hosts. Most didn't mind the renovation, and many even enjoyed it. They loved the authenticity of the castle, and a few described their stay as an 'original adventure'.
Some of the former tenants enjoyed their experience so much that they want to return and see how much progress the castle has made since their last visit.
Ready for your own original adventure at this castle? If you don't mind unfinished rooms and no air conditioning, you can book a stay here.
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