Château d'Esparron-de-Verdon

Esparron-de-Verdon, France

The Château d'Esparron-de-Verdon is located in the commune of Esparron-de-Verdon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department.

The first mention of a castle in Esparron dates back to 990. A charter from the abbey of Lérins, dated that year, refers to a church dedication near 'castrum Sparronis, in Bulzolschi valle.' Historian Mathieu Vivas suggests this text dates more likely to the 1020s, tied to the incastellamento phenomenon in Provence, during which fortified settlements emerged. In 1182, a man named Bertrand d'Esparron is cited in the cartulary of the Saint-Victor Abbey in Marseille.

Agnès Spata, daughter of Augier Spata, married Boniface IV de Castellane in the early 13th century. The Castellane family, one of the oldest Provençal families, shared lordship of Esparron with the d'Esparron family during the 13th and 14th centuries. By the 15th century, the Castellane family became sole lords of Esparron through marriage and purchase.

A square tower, 9 meters wide with walls 1.5 meters thick, was constructed in the early 13th century. Modifications occurred between 1520 and 1540, with additions like a latrine tower and a spiral staircase.

In the late 18th century, the east wing was restored with modern touches like adjoining rooms, salons, and ceremonial chambers. The current owner, Count Bernard de Castellane-Esparron, inherited the estate in 1989 and, along with his wife Charlotte-Anne, has since converted the castle into a guesthouse.

The castle features a 13th-century square keep, modified in the 15th century, as well as remnants of curtain walls and living quarters from the 15th and 17th centuries. In the latter half of the 18th century, the seigneurial castle was transformed into a pleasure residence by reconstructing the south wing.

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Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in France
Historical period: Late Capetians (France)

More Information

chateau-esparron.com

Rating

4.4/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

T WG (2 years ago)
We had a wonderful stay at this charming chateau. Delicious breakast was served in the beautiful little garden. The friendly owners were extremely helpful and provided useful information about the f&b options in the village. Highly recommended!
Yozhyk (3 years ago)
This is a charming place! We have been warmly welcomed by the Count and the Countess de Castellane with a nice visit of their 13th century old castle. The rooms are in line with the style, do not look for the latest technology here, you are simply back in time and with style! As a Porsche owner, the road to get there from Gréoux-les-Bains, passing by the river Verdon and the lake d'Esparron, is simply one of the best I have been driving on so far! I also enjoyed the Free parking in the yard. For pets owner, no worries, you have a 'dog-sitting' service next door, that will look after your loved ones. The generous breakfast was taking place in the garden. Take a look at the Castle's website to know more, have a go and spend a night here on your way to visit the beautiful Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region! We will come back again.
Mark Hudson (6 years ago)
Exceptional. Magnificent, private family owned chateau with beautiful rooms to stay overnight. The Count and Countess are refined and extremely friendly hosts. The rooms are stunning - high ceiliinged and appointed with original antiques. Delicious breakfast. Good value for a unique and high quality experience. Wonderful ancient chateau in a beautiful medieval hamlet and a great position for swimming in the lake and exploring the region.
Patricia Tuite (7 years ago)
Charming rooms and owners! Great breakfast in a rustic castle kitchen. Great location for access to the lake and boat rentals to visit the Gorges du Verdon. Close to the Valensole plateau of lavender fields and quaint villages like Moustieres-St-Marie and Grenoux - les - Bains. We loved it!
Anna Lupton (Carr House Farm B&B) (8 years ago)
We had a wonderful time at Chateau de Esparron. Our hosts were so charming and helpful and gave us advice on their beautiful surroundings. The breakfast were delicious using only the finest produce .We felt very much that this was a first class way to experience French life at its very best. We plan to return in the future and would certainly recommend it as one of the special places in France.
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