At the gates of Brive-la-Gaillarde, in the commune of Varetz, stands a proud and romantic silhouette: the château de Castel Novel. Adorned with its tall red towers and sun-kissed brick walls, it looks like it came straight out of a tale. Here, history mingles with legend, and the stones converse with literature.
.
A Fortress Turned Charming Residence
Built on the remnants of an ancient medieval stronghold, Castel Novel still shows traces of its defensive past. Its round towers, tall silhouette, and beautiful wooded surroundings reflect its role as a lookout over the Corrèze valley. Transformed over the centuries, it has become an elegant dwelling, marking the subtle blend of medieval austerity and Renaissance refinement.
.
A Lively Page of History
But if Castel Novel is known far beyond the borders of Limousin, it's because it was the home of the writer Colette at the beginning of the 20th century. The author lived there with her husband, Henri de Jouvenel, a journalist and politician from Corrèze. In these richly decorated salons, she wrote several of her novels, finding inspiration in the surrounding countryside for her pages filled with nature and sensuality. Castel Novel retains a literary aura, echoing the words of Colette that still resonate within its walls.
A Unique Treasure in Corrèze
Today, Castel Novel is not just a castle to admire: it’s also a prestigious hotel-restaurant that welcomes travelers and history lovers alike. With its charming old-fashioned rooms, wood-paneled salons, and beautifully landscaped park, it offers a timeless stopover in a unique, majestic, and intimate atmosphere.
From the top of its hill, the castle keeps a watchful eye over Varetz and the surrounding valley. Whether you come to stay, dine, or simply admire it, it always offers the same promise: a journey beyond time.
Address: Route de Roland Garros, 19240 Varetz, France
