Département: Charente-Maritime (17) 
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In the southwest of France bordering the Atlantic coast, the département of the Charente-Maritime is home to this impressive château situated on the left bank of the River Charente and surrounded by its own park with century-old trees and manicured lawns.  A moat and keep from the 11th century are reminders of Crazannes long history, while the 14th century château, one of the oldest homes in the Saintonge region, is a classified Historical Monument of France.  Famous guests of the past include the Black Prince who stayed for a short while in 1362, and  King François I who paid a visit to the château in 1519 during his travels to the region. 

An early owner was Jean Acarie, famed military leader of France, whose contribution was the addition of a large square wing to the château in 1565.  In 1760, Jacques Chaudruc, a ship-owner and slave trader bought the castle and proceeded with much-needed repairs.  Later, in the mid-18th century, Pierre-Louis de la Rochefoucauld, the bishop of Saintes, took up residency here, only to be beheaded in Paris in 1792.  The coats of arms of some of these former owners were installed on several chimneys in the château, while at the end of the 1900s, the Baron of Crazannes recast the south façade of Crazannes.

Be sure to view the north façade to see the intricate fairytale-like sculptures of mythical creatures and dragons, taking special note of the pinnacled front door depicting the welcome to pilgrims on their way to Saint James de Compostelle in Spain.   In fact,  the small building between the chapel and the Keep where people can gather and  guests enjoy their buffet breakfasts is known as the Pilgrim's Hall. 

And, Crazannes has an American connection:  its pale golden 'crazannes' stone, most noticeable in the Keep, was quarried locally and is famous for its beauty and endurance -- and renowned because it can be found in the base of the Statue of Liberty in New York harbor and in the foundations of the columns at the White House in Washington, D.C. 

Today's owners are eager to welcome guests to his fascinating home - the "Castle of Puss in Boots" -  to share its history and to ensure that his guests avail themselves of all the region has to offer.  Crazannes is only seven miles from the 2000-year old city of Saintes founded by the Romans, 25 miles from the Atlantic beach resort of Royan and its zoo (one of the largest in Europe), 38 miles from the beautiful port city of La Rochelle, and only 20 miles from Cognac where tours of cellars and distilleries such as Hennessey and Courvoisier are offered on weekdays.  Vineyards, Romanesque churches, historical and fortified towns, and the beautiful peaceful countryside of the Saintonge offer visitors a rich variety of activities and experiences.   Back at the château after a day of sight-seeing, guests can enjoy a swim in the heated pool or strolls in the sixteen-acre forested park.

Guided tours are offered to the public every weekend and public holiday from April to October, with a guide dressed up in historic costume.  Tours are also offered every day in July and August, and for larger groups throughout the year.  Advance reservation must be made in all cases.

Château de Crazannes is a very special place in a very special part of France, and a stay there would provide wonderful remembrances of a visit to the countryside of western France.

Open All Year.
On the grounds:    Guided tours for members of the public from March 31 - please inquire about entry fees.  For guests: Heated pool, sixteen-acre forested park, weddings, receptions
Vicinity:  Charente river cruises, river fishing, water sports, Crazannes stone quarry, horseback riding, tennis, bicycle rental, boat rental, wildlife preserve, three 18-hole golf courses within 6, 22 and 25 miles respectively, Rochefort, Saintes, Cognac, Royan, La Rochelle, Saint Emilion, Atlantic Coast, oyster-beds, islands of Oleron, Ré, Aix, Madame and Fort Boyard, and an hour from the Poitevin marshes to be visited in punts, Futuroscope,  and the "Puy du Fou" historical pageant.

From Paris -  by auto via the A10 direction Bordeaux.  Exit No. 35 (Saintes) and follow the N137 direction Rochefort; turn right towards Plassay onto the N119, and follow the sign boards "Château de Crazannes"

From Bordeaux - - take the A10 north direction Saintes and follow above directions.

GPS:45°N 50’41.37’’ 0°W 41’38.88"

By air to Bordeaux Airport 

By train to or  from Paris 4 hours to Saintes (7 miles from the château) or Surgères (20 miles from the château) 

Car Rental Saintes Railway
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Michelin Map to Château