As you know, I go weak at the knees at the sight of a French château. I've visited many (and lived in one), but somehow we'd never stopped to visit the Cinderella castle that we often pass on our way to Beaune, Château de la Rochepot. I'd been longing to visit those sky-piercing turrets for a long time, and we finally got round to doing it. If you're planning on paying a visit to Burgundy and in particular to Beaune, you'll want to put it on your list, as it's very close by.
To get there, you wind through the sweet rural village of Rochepot, then walk up the steep hill to the drawbridge. This château has all the fun stuff: moats, draw bridges, beautiful grounds and position, and turrets galore. It has the colorful glazed tile roofs that are characteristic of the region.
And of course it has history. It was built in the 12th century, by a wealthy lord who was an advisor to the Dukes of Bourgogne. It is a rare example of French Gothic Revival architecture. But like many castles and other important buildings, it did not fare well during the French revolution. It was nearly destroyed and fell into ruin.
To the rescue came Madame Sadi Carnot, wife of a French president. She purchased it as a rather indulgent gift for her son in the late 1800's, who then embarked on a major restoration. The gallery of 'before and after' photos at the château was quite amazing. The renovation in the early 20th century was extensive, and brought what was a near total ruin back to its original state.
In researching this post I came across a big surprise: the château is for sale! For the price of a medium sized house in the Charleston historic district with a small garden, you can own this château, with it's 69 acres of grounds. Now that's a bargain. And if you buy it, will you pretty please invite me for a stay?
In the COMMENTS: We received a wealth of recipes this week, what a wonderful surprise! Beth sent two: a whole roasted cauliflower, and chicken cilantro burgers. Suzanne sends an unusual artichoke lasagna recipe that I want to try as well. Herm sent, by email, this quickie recipe for apple rolls (done in a funny video format) that's so easy. Both Dee and Natalia have more surprising ways to stretch meat, and I had never heard of either. Ally says 'putting an egg on top' is a hangover cure and Deborah thinks it might have Hawaiian origins. Ralphe is a kindred, spirit, a vegetarian in the land of la viande. As to where to get black beans in France–good luck with that! I once found dried black beans at the Carrefour, and I stocked up on them. But they are not typical in France.
Favorite Reads: Nature and photography lovers, you may want to check out our reader Deborah Zajac's blog, Circadian Rhythms, for some lovely images. Also by one of our readers, Suzanne Dunaway, a new cookbook for you called, Rome, At Home: The Spirit of La Cucina Romana in Your Own Kitchen
12 thoughts on “Daytripping: Your French Fantasy Château”
Simply dreamy. I could almost smell the grass. Wonderful way to spend a winters dreary day. Thank you for sharing.
Must tell you we just finished Not Rabbit a la moutarde (with chicken of course) and it was incredibly delicious. I had seconds, which I never do, and the boyfriend had thirds! This recipe is a keeper. Thanks
Oh to have the dosh.
Dreams are wonderful! Thanks!!
One of my favorite Travel shows here is done by Rick Steves (on PBS) and last Saturday he did a show on the Burgundy region and went to this castle…It was most unfortunate that I never made it there when I was living in Vallauris….
Fun post, Lynn.
I am totally unfamiliar with this little gem but will look out for it next time. I have always been drawn to Beaune as a lovely small city. We haven’t been back in years–certainly not in the time I’ve known you through your blog or I would have insisted on a visit over coffee or wine in one of those cafes close to your home. Next time maybe.
I look forward to the apple rolls. We eat a lot of apples–probably my New England roots–at our house.
Fondly, Chris
Do I ever wish I could afford to buy this chateau. You would be welcome, Lynn!
We visited Chateau de la Rochepot on our last trip to Burgundy. Although it was a cold, damp day, it was just lovely. I remember it so clearly as it is very distinctive compared to many other chateaux. If cool, though, dress warmly!! Those stone walls just radiate the cold!
We spent the night in Beaune last October, but for some reason we hadn’t found this castle. We were focused on Gallo-Roman and neolithic stuff. It looks like it must go on the list.
It has been many years since we visited la Rochepot but I well remember the kitchen! We love the small town of Nolay nearby. Half timbered houses and an old covered market. All set in such a sweet landscape. In December, we did not make in down toward Macon but spent our time in the countryside south of Autun. I have put your lodging suggestions in the book for the furture.
Ann
Daytripping is right! Wow! The thought of buying that chateau totally walks away with my imagination!
You and Ron would always be welcome,especially if you brought Domino!
But!(usually is a “but” involved someplace,isn’t there?)makes me tired just thinking of the upkeep involved!And we won’t even mention the damp cold radiating from the walls!
Never mind any negatives,life’s too short,just enjoy every second of beauty!
So much there to savor!
Oh, I remember this chateau very well. We made the trip there with Monty and Ali 3+ years ago and it was incredible! I do remember it being very cold the day we were there but that didn’t stop us from enjoying the beauty. We have so many stunning photos as a reminder of what it must be like to live in such a stunning place. Do you know the asking price? Can all the expats go into together for yet another summer place?
Lynn,
I cannot believe this property is for sale! We visited several years ago, more than once. In fact, I included this beautiful place in my writings, and I have a photo taken from almost the same location as your first shot. Of course, I didn’t stop there with my picture-taking! I have shot after shot stashed away somewhere of a visit in the autumn with gold and reds bursting like fireworks. Now, you have my enthusiasm worked up again. Although, it doesn’t take much for that. Wait until I tell Jim about the chateau for sale. I know he will write a check right away! Keep up your investigative reports of the French countryside.