Romantic Combourg
Visit Combourg: in the footsteps of Chateaubriand
Combourg is a charming little town full of character, just 35 minutes from Rennes, Saint-Malo and Mont-Saint-Michel.
Nicknamed the ‘cradle of Romanticism’, it owes its nickname to the writer François-René de Chateaubriand, who spent part of his youth here. This period had a profound influence on his work and forged his Romantic style.
Combourg Castle
A medieval fortress built between the 12th and 15th centuries, the Combourg Castle bears the name of Chateaubriand, who spent part of his childhood and adolescence here.
Chateaubriand was deeply influenced by this austere residence, which nourished his imagination, and he wrote about it in part of his work ‘Mémoires d'outre-tombe’ (Memoirs from beyond the grave).
On a guided tour of the château, you'll discover the rooms in which the author lived, as well as personal objects that bear witness to his daily life.
Finish your visit with a stroll in the majestic English park.
Practical information:
- Address: 23 Rue des Princes, 35270 Combourg
- Opening dates: from 31 March 2024 to 3 November 2024
- Admission: €13.70 for a guided tour of the château and access to the grounds
Chateaubriand's imprint
Today, the spirit of Chateaubriand still permeates every corner of the town.
A statue of him greets visitors at the entrance to the town, and a themed tour along Lac Tranquille retraces his history in 11 stages.
After the tour, treat yourself to a delicious meal in our hotel restaurant overlooking the lake.
A romantic atmosphere
In addition to its literary heritage, Combourg boasts a unique atmosphere conducive to romantic reverie.
There are many places to enjoy this romantic atmosphere:
- Lac Tranquille, with its water lilies, offers a superb view of the château.
- The main street, lined with elegant granite houses and timber-framed facades, will take you back in time.
- Notre Dame church, nicknamed the ‘cathedral church’, impresses with its size and sumptuous stained glass windows.
