
Château Comtal is a must-see for lovers of historic beauty and romantic settings, especially as it is a UNESCO heritage site. And if you need a drink after touring the opulent aristocratic chateaus, the Lorie Valley is also known for its scenic vineyards. Located in the south of France, Château Comtal de Carcassonne is a charming castle perched on a hill at the center of Carcassonne, a fortified medieval town. Want to see more chateaus? The Château de Freschines is located near the Lorie Valley, which has more than 300 castles. There’s an adjoining chapel and several outbuildings.

Outside, you can explore the sprawling property. Breakfast is provided, and the local chef can cook dinner if requested. Great for both individuals and groups, you can book a room or rent out the entire chateau. The massive castle has 30 rooms, including 14 shared bathrooms, and can host up to 16 guests at present. Almost immediately after beginning their restoration, the pair began listing rooms on Airbnb. In 2019, architect Elisabeth Herring and her daughter Valerie bought the chateau after six years of vacancy and neglect. It was once home to prominent French chemist Antoine-Laurent Lavoisier, according to Messy Nessy Chic. Rich with history, the castle was built in the 16th century and later rebuilt in the 18th century. Located in Villefrancœur, Center-Val de Loire, France, Château de Freschines is surrounded by 26 hectares of trees. A mother-daughter duo has teamed up to turn an abandoned, historic chateau in France into a bustling bed and breakfast, and are inviting guests to come stay during the renovations.

If you want to know what it was like to live like a French aristocrat in the 1700s, now's your chance – well, sort of.
