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Château de Keriolet - complete guide for your visit
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If you're in the mood for a cultural getaway in Southern BrittanyIf you've ever been captivated by the charm of historic residences, Château de Keriolet is a must-see. This neo-Gothic nugget, testimony to the eccentric life of Princess Zénaïde Narischkine Youssoupoff and her husband, Count Charles de Chauveau, awaits you. The result of the metamorphosis of a 13th-century fortress, this residence has been elevated to the status of a 19th-century architectural gem, and is now a listed historic monument.
Your visit will be an immersion in history and elegance, with enriching guided tours, captivating animations and the chance to attend unique events. We've put together a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your visit to Château de Keriolet, highlighting the must-see experiences of this magical place.
History and architecture of Château de Keriolet
Château de Keriolet has Concarneau represents a remarkable testimony to history and architecture, reflecting the ambitious dream of Princess Zénaïde Narischkine Youssoupoff and Count Charles de Chauveau. Explore the evolution of this residence over the centuries, discovering its unique architectural features and the emblematic personalities who have shaped its history.
The castle's fascinating history
First recorded in chronicles in 1481, Château de Keriolet was originally a fortified manor house belonging to various local noble families. In the 19th century, it underwent a major transformation thanks to Princess Zénaïde, a wealthy Russian aristocratic widow. Enamored of Count Charles, a French artillery captain, she offered him the Keriolet estate, which she had renovated into a splendid neo-Gothic residence by architect Joseph Bigot, inspired by monuments such as the châteaux of Blois and Rustéphan, as well as the priory of Locamand.
The couple organized sumptuous receptions, attended by eminent personalities of the day. After the Count's death in 1889, the Princess retired from the château, which was bequeathed to the Finistère department to house a museum. In the 20th century, the château passed through several owners, including Prince Felix Yusupov, known for his involvement in the assassination of Rasputin, before being acquired by Christophe Lévèque, who restored it and made it accessible to the public.
Architectural features
The château's fascinating south-facing facade is enriched by statues, stained-glass windows and symbols evoking Breton culture. On the north side, it retains elements of its medieval origins. The estate has several wings - medieval to the west, Renaissance to the north and neo-Gothic to the south - housing remarkably ornate rooms and collections of porcelain, tapestries and other precious objects. The surrounding park offers an exceptional view of the sea and the Glénan Islands.
Personalities linked to the château
Château de Keriolet has been home to many illustrious personalities, each of whom has left an indelible mark:
- Princess Zenaïde Narischkine Youssoupoff (1810-1893), beautiful, generous and eccentric, aunt of Tsar Nicholas II and grandmother of Felix Youssoupov.
- Count Charles de Chauveau (1825-1889), with a passion for politics, literature and art.
- Prince Felix Yusupov (1887-1967), one of Russia's wealthiest men and one of those responsible for Rasputin's death.
- Architect Joseph Bigot (1807-1894), influential creator of numerous neo-Gothic buildings in Brittany.
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Plan your visit to Château de Keriolet
Discover Château de Keriolet and its fascinating history by following these practical tips for a memorable visit.
Guided tour schedule
Château de Keriolet offers individual guided tours from June to September, every day except Saturday, from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. The last tour starts at 12.20pm and 5.20pm respectively. Each tour, lasting around an hour, allows you to discover the main areas of the château and its grounds, under the guidance of expert and enthusiastic guides. Accessible to people with reduced mobility, these tours immerse you in the history and architectural and decorative details of the site.
Information on admission fees
Adults are welcome at Château de Keriolet for €8, children aged 7 to 15 for €4, and family offers (2 adults and children) are €19. Admission is free for children under 7. For groups of 15 or more, a preferential rate of €6.50 applies. Payment can be made by cheque or cash on site, or by booking online via Patrivia. Aperitif tours enhance the experience with an aperitif of local produce after the guided tour, for €15 per person, available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, between June and September.
Tips for an optimal visit
Maximize your experience at Château de Keriolet with these suggestions:
- Arrive early to minimize queues and find a space in the château's free parking lot, which accommodates around 80 vehicles.
- Follow safety and preservation rules: avoid touching exhibits, smoking, eating, drinking, using flash and filming in the château.
- Enrich your visit by learning more about the castle's history and architecture before you arrive, via its website or by purchasing the guide available at reception or on Patrivia.
Access to the castle
Located in Concarneau, Finistère, Château de Keriolet can be reached in a number of ways:
- By car: Follow the RN 165 (Lorient/Quimper expressway), exit at "Coat Conq", then follow the signs to the château as soon as you enter Concarneau.
- By train: From Rosporden station, 10 km away, take a cab or bus to Concarneau, then to the château.
- By plane: The nearest airport is Quimper-Cornouaille, 25 km away. Once there, rent a car, or take a cab or bus to the château.
- By boat: The Concarneau marina, 5 km away, makes it easy to reach the château by cab or bus.
Must-sees at Château de Keriolet
Château de Keriolet, a masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture, stands proudly in Concarneau, Finistère. Built in the 19th century by the Russian princess Zénaïde Narischkine-Ioussoupov for her husband, Count Charles de Chauveau, it is steeped in history and romance. It promises visitors an experience rich in discovery.
The southern façade and its secrets
The château's magnificent south-facing facade offers a spectacular panorama of the sea and the Glénan islands. It reflects the princess's admiration for Brittany and its emblems. You'll be charmed by the figures of a couple in Breton garb, ermine paws, fleurs-de-lis, and statues representing Duchess Anne de Bretagne and the kings of France. Above the entrance to the Salle des Gardes sits an equestrian statue of King Louis XII, symbolizing the Count's devotion to the monarchy.
Explore the interior: the Guard Room, the Arms Room and the Drawing Room
Inside the château, discover the wonders of the princess's personal collections. The Salle des Gardes, formerly a ballroom, was the setting for opulent receptions. Its fireplace, in Kersanton stone and classified as a work of art, is adorned with a representation of the count and his family history. The walls are adorned with four stained-glass windows depicting episodes from the Count's life.
The Salle d'Armes, which has been updated in pure medieval style, contains a 16th-century church pew. As for the salon, a favorite of the princess for its south-facing aspect, it housed her precious collections of Chinese porcelain, tapestries and earthenware.
The dining room, kitchen and courtyard
The carefully restored dining room is proudly decorated with Breton motifs, including a ceiling adorned with fleur-de-lys and ermine paws. It is furnished in a Chinese style, proof of the princess's eclecticism.
The kitchen, preserved intact against the ravages of time, is clad in hand-painted Desvres earthenware and includes a large kitchen garden, a fireplace and a small bread oven.
The inner courtyard, with its variety of architectural styles, perfectly illustrates the eccentric spirit of the princess. The west wing evokes the Middle Ages, the north wing the Renaissance, and near the Salle des Gardes, the eclectic neo-Gothic style takes pride of place.
Hidden surprises: the crypt
Beneath the floor of Château de Keriolet lie unsuspected wonders. The crypt, once an innovative boiler room, distributed heat to the upper floors via a system of ducts. Now an exhibition hall, it features works of art, including the first microscope given to the young Louis Pasteur.
Conclusion
Château de Keriolet, a treasure trove of architecture and history, opens its doors to you for a fascinating immersion experience. Discover the romantic story of Princess Zénaïde and Count Charles, a tale that animates the walls of this château. With its combination of medieval, Renaissance and neo-Gothic styles, it promises a captivating journey through time and art.
Admire its sumptuous south-facing façade, explore its lavishly decorated rooms, its authentic kitchen and plunge into the mystery of its crypt. During your visit, be sure to stroll through the lush grounds and take in the magnificent sea views.
Don't delay, plan your guided tour or opt for an aperitif visit to Château de Keriolet. Let yourself be enchanted by this jewel of Breton heritage and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
What is the history of Château de Keriolet?
A modern-day fairytale, Château de Keriolet tells the story of the love affair between Russian princess Zénaïde Youssoupoff and French count Charles de Chauveau. In the 19th century, they transformed a 13th-century manor house into a sumptuous neo-Gothic château. After their deaths, the château went through several difficult periods before being magnificently restored by Christophe Lévèque.
How do I get to Château de Keriolet from Paris?
Getting to Château de Keriolet from Paris is easy and picturesque. Take the A10 freeway towards Nantes/Bordeaux, then exit at junction 16 towards Mer/Chambord. Follow the N24 to Concarneau and take the Coat Conq exit. Signs for Château de Keriolet will be visible as soon as you enter Concarneau. The journey takes around 4.5 hours over a distance of 550 kilometers.
What are the opening times and prices for visits to Château de Keriolet?
Tours of Château de Keriolet are available from Monday, June 3, 2024 to Sunday, September 22, 2024, every day except Saturday, from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. The last tour departs at 12.20pm and 5.20pm. Admission is €8 for adults, €4 for children aged 7 to 15, €19 for a family ticket (2 adults and their children) and €6.50 per person for a group of more than 15 visitors. Admission is free for children under 7. Payment can be made by cheque or cash on site.
What activities and entertainment are on offer at Château de Keriolet?
The 19th-century Château de Keriolet, located in Concarneau, Brittany, offers an immersion in the past with its guided tours. Explore the furnished interiors and outdoor park, take part in cultural events such as festivals, shows, investigation evenings or aperitif tours. The château is also an ideal venue for special events such as receptions, weddings or seminars, in the majestic setting of its guardroom.
Chateau de Keriolet website: chateaudekeriolet.com
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