When you think of luxury travel, France is probably one of the first destinations that come to mind. And while there are undoubtedly many opulent hotels and resorts in the country, there’s also a growing trend of sustainable, organic French chateaux hotels. These properties emphasize an ethos of environmental responsibility and offer guests a unique opportunity to experience authentic French culture while minimizing their impact on the planet.
So if you’re looking for an elegant and eco-friendly vacation destination, look no further than France’s beautiful châteaux that are organic and sustainable. Here are a few of our favorites.
Château de Berne
-for 5-star sustainability and a Michelin-starred organic restaurant
Château de Berne is located in the Provence region of France and is surrounded by vineyards, forests, and lavender fields. The château has its own on-site organic farm where they grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs. The restaurant at Château de Berne serves dishes made from farm ingredients. The château also has beehives and produces its honey with its bee-friendly label.
The Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Jardin de Berne, features innovative flavors in a delicate presentation. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the art of gastronomy with the “table du pass,” a front row seat to the kitchen if you desire. The restaurant features produce from the property’s hundred acres of organic vegetables, berries, herbs, and flowers; all the food is made with organic, sustainable ingredients. Le Jardin de Berne was honored with a green star for its sustainable gastronomy in 2021.
Le Jardin de Berne isn’t the only restaurant on site. You can enjoy the local organic food in the other two restaurants and their impressive wine list.
Stay the night at the French chateaux hotels estate certified High Environmental Value thanks to the high economic, environmental, and social standards. The hotel uses low-energy lighting, reduces its water consumption, composts and recycles when possible, and is planning to eliminate plastic over the next few years. In addition, all rooms are cleaned with environmentally safe products.
Château de Berne is one of the very few 5-star French chateaux hotels in France with a certified commitment to sustainability.
Château de la Bourdaisiére
-for a sustainable stay in the castle region of France
If you want to truly feel like you’re staying in a castle in France, look no further. Château de la Bourdaisiére is a historic castle from the 14th-16th century that’s still traditionally decorated on their expansive estate. For true luxury, choose an apartment with views overlooking the park. The French château hotel is located in the Loire Valley and has been certified organic since 2008.
The château grows its own vegetables, fruits, and herbs. They also have chickens and bees on site. In addition, the estate is working on expanding its permaculture mini farm.
The château has complimentary breakfast, a high-tea, and a luxurious dinner restaurant. Each features organic produce and local products. Château de la Bourdaisiere seeks to develop their estate using sustainable initiatives and local organic ingredients.
Note that the hotel is only open from March 15 to November 15 and December 26 to January 4.
Château de Massillan
-for a farm-to-table luxury castle experience
Organic, luxurious, yet down-to-earth, Château de Massillan is located in the Languedoc region of France. You’ll love the history of the 16th-century castle. The French château hotel has an on-site organic vineyard and produces biodynamic wine. The château also has an on-site olive grove and produces its olive oil.
The restaurant at Château de Massillan serves dishes made with ingredients from the château’s vineyard, olive grove, and organic garden. All the wines are organic and/or biodynamic selections from the region. The chef lets the season inspire the menu and highlights regional delights of the highest quality. Le M Restaurant has romantic views of ancient trees and glistening fountains. You can enjoy food poolside or outdoors as well. During the summer, you can also eat at the refreshing bistro.
During the day, guests are welcome to stroll through the certified organic gardens and visit the organic hens on-site. Then, unwind in the expansive organic spa with treatments, pools, saunas, and more.
Château de Rouffillac
-for a complete château rental in the food region of France
Château de Rouffillac is not a hotel. Rather, it’s a complete castle rental experience. Located in the Dordogne region of France, it’s perched on top of a hill overlooking the surrounding area. Each room has been restored authentically and luxuriously. With nine suites, each with different focuses, period rooms, a massive dining room, and a large living area, the space still has features from the 12th century with all the modern amenities you’d expect. You can also have yoga, massage, and other wellness treatments upon request. In addition, there is a gym on-site.
The Dordogne region of France is a food-lovers delight. With 9 Michelin-star restaurants, local and regional eateries, and numerous organic markets, you’ll be immersed in the local’s love of quality food.
Château de Courances
-a traditional château with an ever-expanding organic farm
Château de Courances is located in the Ile-de-France region of France. The château has an on-site organic farm where they grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs. The château also has a labyrinth and a maze on the grounds.
There are two restaurants at Château de Courances and a farm shop where you can purchase organic produce grown on-site. La Foulerie features pop-up dinners where chefs worldwide create meals from local, seasonal ingredients. The Mezzanine restaurant serves dishes made with ingredients from the château’s farm, with a menu that changes daily. The restaurant follows a farm-to-fork philosophy that emphasizes ingredients picked that day.
While you can’t stay in the castle, you can visit the interior and stay in one of the cottages located on the estate.
Whichever French chateaux hotels you choose, you’re sure to have a luxurious and sustainable stay in a little piece of history.
