Château de Canaples

The château of Canaples, a listed Historical monument, is recognizable at first sight. Behind its black wrought-iron gates, this white Neo-Renaissance château stands in 5 hectares of landscaped grounds. This Belle Époque property was designed in 1898 by the architect Bienaimé, for a family from Beauval who had made a fortune mining phosphate. The château was built of Savonnières stone, brought from Lorraine on the railway. Abandoned for several decades, in 2011 its new owners found the grounds overrun by hazel, maple, ash, elder and nettles and the roof in need of repair. Renovating the property involved hundreds of hours of work. In season, the early 20th century landscaped grounds are now open to the public. This tranquil and restful setting is home to several remarkable tree species, such as layered thuja, yew trees, Corsican pines, spruce, a copper beech...Be sure to walk through the Art Nouveau inspired winter garden with its surprising décor of mosaics, glazed earthenware tiles, stained glass, Art Nouveau style jardinières and glass domed ceiling. Tours daily, 1pm to 7pm, except Tuesdays.