Château de Coucy: The Largest Fortress in Europe
The Château de Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique is located about 100 km from Lille. A must-see as it was one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. In addition to this particularity, it is also famous for its immense tower: the Tower of Coucy. Built in the 13th century, today there are only ruins left, remnants of times past. On site, you can even discover excavations!
Châtelet de Bailleul: between ruins and architecture
It is in Condé-sur-l'Escaut, a small town located about 20 km from Lille, that you will discover this châtelet. Right next to the capital of Flanders is the castle of Bailleul. Its originality? It is partially in ruins but still has glimpses of medieval architecture from the Hauts-de-France region!
Rambures Castle: the most beautiful fortress in the region
This castle is located about 120 km from Lille, in Picardy. Absolutely sublime, its medieval structure is particularly well preserved as well as its rustic garden. "The Estate, in the same family since its origin (11th century), includes a jewel of 15th-century military architecture classified as Historical Monuments as early as 1840, 18th-century outbuildings, a woodshed, a chapel, a romantic park and its collection of roses, all listed in the Supplementary Inventory of Historical Monuments, as well as a large part of the furniture." The garden itself is classified as a "remarkable garden" and has a rose garden with 500 different species! It looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale!
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Château de Hardelot: between medieval and cultural exhibitions
Located about 80 km north of Lille, the Château de Hardelot is absolutely lovely to look at. It retains the codes of old medieval fortresses while having been rehabilitated. Today, it even hosts cultural and artistic exhibitions. "It is dedicated to showcasing the history of relations between France and England and raising awareness of British culture. Around the neo-Gothic manor housing a collection of 19th century English furniture and decorative art, the exhibition hall, the garden, and the Elizabethan theater offer a rich and varied program."
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Château de Hierges : to discover the French Ardennes
This castle is located outside the Hauts-de-France region... But it is indeed in the French Ardennes, about 150km from Lille. And that's what makes it so charming. It blends seamlessly into the mystical landscape of this region. Its architecture is a subtle mix of Mosan Renaissance and the military constraints of the time.
