Royal Thrills: The Top Haunted Castles in France for Halloween 2026

The Fairytale Castle in Touraine Located in Lémeré, in the heart of the Loire Valley, the Château du Rivau is a unique destination that seems straight out of a picture book. This former medieval fortress, linked to the story of Joan of Arc who came here to find warhorses in 1429, surprises with its hybrid architecture: proud drawbridges and machicolations protecting an elegant Renaissance residence. This privately owned castle, lovingly restored, is now famous for its 15 listed remarkable gardens, where contemporary art meets botany in a dreamlike and enchanting atmosphere. The castle's interior is equally captivating, blending period furniture with surprising contemporary art exhibitions. Each room tells a story, often linked to themes of fantasy or nature. But it's outside that the magic truly happens: between the "Gargantua's Vegetable Garden," the "Running Forest," and "Alice's Labyrinth," the estate invites you on a fantastical stroll. It's an essential part of Indre-et-Loire's heritage, offering a poetic and playful alternative to the more traditional Loire Valley châteaux.

The Palace of Compiègne is a former royal and imperial residence located in Compiègne, Oise (Hauts-de-France region, France). It has been listed as a historical monument since October 24, 1994. Built by Louis XV and Louis XVI, and remodeled under Napoleon I and then Napoleon III, the Château de Compiègne was a central center of court life and the exercise of power. The originality and beauty of this, the largest French neoclassical château, along with the quality of its interior decoration and furnishings, constitute a unique ensemble, a historic site which, alongside Versailles and Fontainebleau, is one of the three most important French royal and imperial residences.

The Château de Meung-sur-Loire, nicknamed the "Château with Two Faces," is one of the largest and oldest châteaux in the Loire Valley. A former prestigious residence of the Bishops of Orléans, it boasts a fascinating architecture that reflects its eventful history: on one side, a defensive medieval façade with its imposing 13th-century towers, and on the other, an elegant 18th-century classical façade, reflecting its transformation into a pleasure residence. Inside, the visit is distinguished by its lively and immersive atmosphere. Unlike other châteaux that can sometimes feel a bit static, Meung-sur-Loire invites visitors to explore daily life through the ages, from the sumptuous reception rooms to the kitchens equipped with an impressive collection of period objects. The highlight of the visit remains its dungeons, which served as a prison and where, notably, the poet François Villon was incarcerated, offering a striking contrast to the luxury of the upper floors.

Just a few kilometers from Bordeaux, the Château de Vayres is one of the most prestigious monuments in the Gironde. Formerly owned by King Henry IV, this historic residence surprises visitors with its unique architectural blend: on one side, an imposing medieval fortress with its gatehouse, and on the other, an elegant Renaissance façade overlooking the Dordogne River. The château has stood the test of time with panache, preserving richly furnished interiors that bear witness to French refinement. The main attraction of the visit lies in the harmonious relationship between the architecture and nature. The château is famous for its "Remarkable" gardens, which slope down in terraces towards the river. Here, you will discover a French garden of absolute geometric precision, contrasting with flowerbeds and a forest that adds a touch of wildness to the estate. It is an essential stop for lovers of art, history, and botany who wish to discover a more intimate and majestic side of Aquitaine.