France: The Castle of Kerjean

If you’re visiting Bretagne, France, make sure to check out these well-fortified and elegant displays that the Château de Kerjean has to offer.

The front side of the Castle of Kerjean.

It is a 16th century castle originally built as a home for the Barbier family. It is located in the town of Saint-Vougay in the Finistere, a department of Brittany, France. I have learned that this castle was damaged in the 17th century during the French Revolution. However, it was taken into state care in 1911 and restored in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. It became open to the public in 2005 and in addition to tours; this castle hosts lectures, performances and activities for children such as treasure hunts throughout the year.

The moat surrounding the castle.

The moat surrounding the castle.

In my opinion, the Kerjean Castle is a perfect example of the Renaissance and it is a little jewel of the Finistère countryside. The castle offers its visitors a good peek in the past, to find out how the Breton nobility lived.

Inside the castle.

Inside the castle.

The chateau chapel is very interesting and is a must see. The ceiling is outstanding. The purlins and carvings that encircle the interior walls are superb and fascinating. The details in the doors, shutters, floorboards are also well worth noting.

The ceiling of the chapel.

The castle is full of beautiful ancient Breton furniture such as closed beds. The kitchen is fabulous with authentic spaces.

A closed bed

A closed bed

In the kitchen.

In the kitchen.

It is surrounded by a well maintained, huge park where you can take a pleasant walk to end your visit. There is a big parking space with lots of picnic tables, so you could have lunch or snacks there while savoring the breeze and beauty of this impressive-looking Chateau. Also, the natural beauty of the surrounding agricultural countryside on the way to the castle is rewarding.

Well-manicured park.

Well-manicured park.

Overall, I would say that we enjoyed our visit there. We ended our visit by taking an amiable stroll in the fields with wild flowers, a good place for a quiet reflection.

I love these wild flowers.

I love these wild flowers.

Little Lilly travel tip:

  • Information is often given in English as well as in French.
  • The admission price is quite reasonable.

Have you been to Château de Kerjean? What did you like best about the castle?