Photos courtesy of Château de Trigance
The earliest trace of habitation at Trigance dates back to the 9th century, when monks from the monastery of Saint Victor of Marseilles found it the ideal spot for meditation.
The counts of Provence took possession next. The most famous count, Raimond de Provence, “Le Gros,” was from an eminent family of Italian origin. As knight of the Order of Malta, he came to France at the head of a military troop serving Queen Jeanne, who gave him title to the lands.
The château was destroyed during the French Revolution. Most of the records were burned, and the castle itself met the sad fate of being used as a rock quarry for the village below.
In 1961 M. and Mme Hartmann fell in love with the site and the ruins and spent ten years gradually bringing the castle back to life. The Jean-Claude Thomases still carry on their work with great success.
Pamela’s Perspective
If you stay at the castle, be sure to ask to see the scrapbook of the before-and-after photos. It’s a fascinating documentation of the tremendous amount of work that goes into castle restoration.
Go for the tower room if you want something special.
Château de Trigance
An 11th-century castle
Contact
83840 Trigance
Tel: ++33 (0)4 94 76 91 18
Hotel website
Reserve with Booking.com
Fast facts
5 rooms
Double rooms: 117–180 euros
Tower room: 190-210 euros
Junior suites:
205-230 euros
Open: early April through October
Getting there
Trigance is near the Gorges du Verdon, about 44 km northwest of the city of Grasse. Located on highway D-955, the castle is well signposted.
What to do
Nearby: tennis; fishing; rock climbing; mountain biking; hiking; golf; Gorges du Verdon
Perched high on a hill, with endless views of the valley below and mountains in the distance, you’ll feel like an eagle in its aerie in this wonderful castle hotel (and one of my favorites).
The medieval stone-vaulted guest rooms come equipped with comforts such as modern bathrooms, canopy beds, and carpets on the tile floors. Each has an outside entrance.
Winding stone stairways and small terraces lead to the warm, cozy lounge, where you are greeted by the gracious and friendly staff. This is the perfect place to talk to other guests or read a good book, perhaps while sipping an aperitif.
From the lounge, stone steps lead to candlelight dining under a 10th-century vaulted stone ceiling. The menu emphasizes regional cooking that is well prepared and elegantly served. Upon request, the staff will bring breakfast to your room in the morning.
Something special
Spectacular views
Authentic medieval atmosphere