Chateau Challain | Wedding Venue in Loire | Enquire, Pricing, Photos & FAQs
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Overview

What we Love

  • Highlight: The Neo-Gothic château, with four towers, 52 fireplaces, and 365 windows, creates an extraordinary architectural backdrop for wedding photography.
  • Vibe: Couples enjoy a fairytale celebration in the Loire Valley, with private gardens, historic salons, and a consecrated chapel on-site.
  • Practical Advantage: Hosting up to 120 guests with overnight lodging for 50, the château is just 1.5 hours by train from Paris and 40 minutes from Angers.

About the Venue

Located in the charming village of Challain-la-Potherie in France, this magnificent château's rich chateau history stretches back to 1050. Originally part of 'Les Marches de Bretagne,' Brittany's historic defensive line, Château Challain has evolved into the premier destination for chateau weddings.

The present château, commissioned in 1847, was designed by renowned Louvre architect Louis Visconti. Every detail speaks to its grandeur - four towers mark the seasons, 52 fireplaces represent weeks of the year, and 365 windows capture each day's light.

Following its completion in 1854, the château earned its title as the "Neo-Gothic Jewel of Anjou." Restored by the Nicholson family in 2002, it now ranks among France's most sought-after wedding venues, hosting everything from grand celebrations to intimate elopement chateau ceremonies.

WEDDING PLANNING AND DESIGN 

At Château Challain, Cynthia Nicholson, the venue's Wedding Planner and Designer, brings dreams to life with her unparalleled expertise in creating luxurious and bespoke weddings. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for romance, she ensures that every celebration is a seamless blend of elegance and enchantment. Couples who choose our château benefit from exclusive, tailor-made planning that transforms their vision into an unforgettable fairytale experience. From breathtaking floral designs to exquisite dining from our in-house Chef and magical ambiance. VIP Vendors that enhance the day with class and charm.

Cynthia and her dedicated team curate every element to perfection, making this private castle Wedding Venue in the countryside of France ultimate destination for an extraordinary wedding. Chateau Challain is one of the only turnkey venues in France. This concept is also helpful for outside planners as well. They welcome collaboration with others for any sort of event.

Accommodation & Amenities

Accommodation:

The château welcomes guests with 21 elegant rooms and suites across two distinct settings. The main Chateau features eight period suites and three spacious bedrooms, each uniquely decorated to reflect French sophistication.

Our luxury suite collection includes the Royal, Golden Tower Napoleon, Empress, and Tower suites as well as others a total of 9 plus an overflow room. For guests seeking modern comforts, the coach house provides eleven en-suites. All named after her grandchildren. New with classic French style in décor and a beautiful view of the chateau.

Amenities:

Your guest experience has been carefully curated with every luxury considered. Each room features Queen or king-sized beds, elegant en-suite bathrooms, premium toiletries, and modern conveniences including Wi-Fi, steamers and hairdryers.

Daily breakfast showcases French culinary excellence, while the château's gardens provide an inspiring setting for morning walks. Additional services include complimentary parking, child & pet-friendly accommodations, and a dedicated makeup room perfect for wedding preparations.

As an all-inclusive wedding venue, Chateau Challain offers in-house planning, floral design, décor, and catering services, allowing couples to enjoy a seamless and beautifully coordinated experience—all in one exceptional location.

Getting there

From Paris: Chateau Challain can arrange transportation for you and your guests from Paris, Angers, and Nantes . Paris is conveniently accessible, being only a 1.5-hour train ride. The chateau from Angers is 40 min drive.

From London: Take the Eurostar from London to Paris, transfer to TGV to Angers, then taxi  40 min to Challain-la-Potherie. Alternatively, fly to Nantes, then drive 1 hour to Challain-la-Potherie.

The Chateau Team can organize any transport needs for their guests as well. No stress needed.

Additional offerings beyond weddings

While renowned for French weddings, Château Challain's versatility extends far beyond matrimonial celebrations. The Loire Valley castle transforms into an exceptional setting for yoga and corporate retreats, milestone birthdays, fashion shows, and cultural events. Château Challain is a B&B all year long, making it an inviting destination not just for events, but also for elegant stays in the heart of France.

The château's trusted VIP suppliers and vendors are available to capture every occasion, while the dedicated team brings guests' ideas to life with signature French elegance. From intimate family reunions to grand corporate galas, the venue offers the perfect backdrop for any celebration.

The château's blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury creates an unforgettable setting for product launches, art exhibitions, or seasonal gatherings. Each event benefits from experienced coordinators, professional catering, and the same meticulous attention to detail that has made this French château one of the country's most acclaimed venues.

Nearest Airport:

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  • Min Stay 1 nights

  • Up to 120 guests

  • Sleeps up to 50 guests

  • In-house Chef

  • Chapel

  • LGBT Friendly

  • Pet Friendly

  • Wifi Available

  • No curfew

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Pricing and Packages

Pricing and Packages

For those dreaming of a French château wedding, Château Challain offers luxurious, all-inclusive experiences tailored to weddings of 30, 50, 70, or 120 guests. Couples can choose from three wedding packages – Intimate Affairs, Gold, and Platinum – each designed to deliver a unique and unforgettable celebration.

Each package can be customized to match your vision, whether you're planning a romantic elopement or a grand multi-day event.

Elopement Chateau Package: from €8,000

  • 1-night accommodation for the Bride and Groom
  • Private dinner by gastronomic chef in the Coach House
  • Professional hair & makeup
  • 4-hour wedding photography session
  • Celebrant, floral decor, ceremony & wedding cake

Intimate Affairs (Silver) Package: from €16,000

  • Accommodation for Bride and Groom
  • Reception for 30 guests in the Coach House
  • 5-course meal by gastronomic chef
  • 1-hour cocktail + house wine (7pm–12am)

Note: Receptions for 50+ guests held at the French Castle at additional cost

Gold Package From €45,000 – €80,000

(Price varies based on number of nights and guests)
For up to 100 guests

Includes:

  • Private château rental with 2 nights’ accommodation
  • Rehearsal dinner & wedding day brunch
  • Unlimited house wine & beer (3 hours)
  • Gold photography package
  • Wedding liaison
  • Harpist (3 hours)
  • DJ (4 hours)
  • Full food & beverage service (5 PM – 1 AM)
  • Florals and wedding cake

Platinum Package From €50,000 – €97,000

(Price varies based on number of nights and guests)
For up to 100 guests

Includes everything in the Gold Package, plus:

  • Videographer (highlight montage + full film)
  • Horse & carriage for bride’s arrival and couple’s exit
  • Liquor bar service
  • Fireworks display

For a personalized quote, please contact Château Challain through the Enquiry Form.

Real Weddings at Chateau Challain

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Who owns Chateau de Challain?

The Nicholson Family are the current owners of Château de Challain-la-Potherie, who aquired the chateau in 2002. 

What provisions are made for bad weather on the wedding day?

Most venues have contingency plans for bad weather, including indoor spaces that can be used for ceremonies and receptions. It’s important to discuss these options with the venue coordinator to ensure there are suitable alternatives in case of rain or other adverse conditions.

Are there any recommended local vendors for wedding planning and services?

Yes, the venue have a list of recommended local vendors, including wedding planners, caterers, florists, photographers, and transportation providers. While these recommendations can help streamline the planning process, guests are often welcome to choose their own service providers as well.

What is included in the rental price of the venue?

The rental price typically includes accommodation for a specified number of guests, access to event spaces, and use of necessary furniture and equipment like chairs, tables, and linens. Additional amenities and services may also be covered, depending on the venue's package offerings.

How many guests can Château Challain accommodate for weddings?

Château Challain hosts weddings for up to 120 guests. For overnight stays, it offers 21 elegant rooms and suites in the château and 11 en-suite rooms in the Coach House, providing accommodation for around 50 guests in total.

What makes Château Challain unique as a wedding venue?

Often called the “Neo-Gothic Jewel of Anjou,” Château Challain is a 19th-century masterpiece designed by Louis Visconti, the Louvre’s architect. It offers turnkey, all-inclusive weddings with in-house planning, floral design, décor, and catering, led by renowned planner Cynthia Nicholson. Every detail is tailored to create a fairytale celebration.

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