Far away from the hubbub of the Eiffel Tower and the Riviera's sparkling seas, there are hidden, ghostly tales waiting to be discovered…
From shadowy figures in centuries-old châteaux to eerie whispers in ancient abbeys, France's haunted history runs as deep as its wine cellars.
In this blog, we'll take you on a tour of the most haunted locations in France, each steeped in supernatural legends and eerie encounters – as well as the best spots to camp nearby (if you're brave enough!). Whether you're fascinated by the paranormal or just intrigued by the mysterious side of French history, these spine-tingling spots promise a hauntingly good time.
So grab your camera, pack your sleeping bag, and get ready for a ghostly adventure through France. Just be sure your courage is as strong as your curiosity!
The Murdered Monks and Dame Blanche
Nestled in the lush landscapes of Normandy, Mortimer Abbey is a gem of Gothic architecture dating back to the 12th century. However, it's not just the architecture that will give you chills.
The abbey has a past steeped in tragedy. Legend has it that monks were first drawn to this site because they believed the land was blessed. However, their fortune took a turn during the French Revolution when revolutionaries brutally murdered four monks. The cellar where this dark deed took place still echoes with their cries, and visitors report cold spots as if the air is thick with despair.
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Some have also seen the ghost of a benevolent monk who saved an English soldier during World War II, lending a flicker of hope amidst the haunting.
Completing the supernatural lineup is the mysterious Dame Blanche, often spotted drifting through the ruins on moonlit nights. This white-clad lady is believed to be the spirit of Empress Matilda of England, confined here against her will by her father. Local lore warns that it's a death omen if you spot her wearing black gloves. But if she's sporting white gloves, there's luck around the corner…
The Red Sands
This breathtaking island commune is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but a marvel of medieval architecture and history. Built in the 8th century as a monastery, Mont Saint-Michel has been a place of pilgrimage, conflict and legend for centuries.
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During the Hundred Years' War, the beaches surrounding Mont Saint-Michel became the final resting place for over 2,000 English soldiers who fell in a brutal battle. According to local legend, the sands turn red on quiet, windless nights. Not from the sea but from the blood of fallen soldiers. Visitors have reported eerie sights, such as the spirits of monks and soldiers wandering the island and the faint sound of ancient prayers echoing through the abbey's towering halls.
For those brave enough, Mont Saint-Michel offers illuminated after-dark experiences, and you can even stay the night on the island. Will you be one of the few to witness the legendary red sands?
The Little Red Man
Amidst the peaceful beauty of the Jardin des Tuileries lies a darker legend: the tale of the Little Red Man. Built in 1564 by Queen Catherine de Médici, today's gardens formed part of the grand Tuileries Palace.
They're supposedly haunted by Jean l'Écorcheur, a butcher who served Catherine by disposing of bodies and keeping her secrets. When he refused to leave his slaughterhouse to make way for the palace construction, he was executed by her order.
Jean returned as a bloodied ghost, tormenting Catherine with ominous appearances. He even warned her astrologer she would die near Saint-Germain, a prophecy that came true. The Little Red Man has since reappeared at key moments in history, including to Marie Antoinette before her execution, and Napoleon before Waterloo.
Although the palace was destroyed in 1871, his ghost remains. Visitors to the gardens today may still sense his eerie presence among the trees…
The Cursed Count
Regarded as one the most haunted castles in France, Château de Blandy-les-Tours has a storied past filled with malevolent spirits. On All Saints' Day, locals hear chains rattling and phantoms circling the castle, screeching in a cacophony of terror.
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Among this ghostly crowd is a particularly nasty character, a 10th-century lord with a taste for blood. This Cursed Count is often spotted wandering the castle in bloody clothes, brandishing a dagger. Some say that if you listen closely, near the ramparts, you can still hear his victims bemoaning their tragic tales.
For today's earthly visitors, the chateau hosts regular "murder parties" throughout October and November. This year, there's a World War Two theme. When night falls, the walls come alive to tell their stories…
The Murdered Wife
If castles were a beauty contest, Château de Brissac would take the crown with its stunning towers, fairy-tale architecture and lush surroundings. Nicknamed the "Giant of the Loire Valley", it boasts over 200 sumptuous rooms and is also the tallest chateau in France.
However, all this beauty masks a heart-wrenching tale…
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The ghost is none other than Charlotte de Valois, who met a tragic end at the hands of her jealous husband, Jacques de Brézé. The story goes that Jacques found Charlotte in bed with her lover, Pierre de Lavergne. Enraged, he exacted a grim justice, plunging his sword into both lovers.
Charlotte's spirit still roams the halls, crying for her lost love and trying to pull the sword from her chest. Even more chillingly, it's said there are dark holes where her eyes and nose should be. Her ghost is often seen during storms in the chapel tower, dressed in the ghostly green attire of "La Dame Verte".
The Mourning Mistress
Château de Chenonceau, nestled in the scenic Loire Valley, is another stunning chateau with a fascinating history. Known as the "Ladies' Castle," it was shaped by many remarkable women, including Queen Catherine de' Medici, Louise de Lorraine, and Enlightenment figure Louise Dupin.
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However, behind its captivating beauty lies a tale of sorrow. Legend says the ghost of Diane de Poitiers, King Henry II's beloved mistress, still roams the grounds, mourning her lost love. King Henry II famously gifted the château to Diane, bypassing his wife, Catherine de' Medici. But after his death, Catherine took back the château, forcing Diane into exile.
Even now, under the light of a full moon, visitors sometimes see the spectral figure of Catherine de Medici brushing Diane's hair – a haunting reminder of their rivalry. Other times, Diane is seen gazing forlornly into her mirror or staring out over the castle's gardens, forever longing for what was once hers.
The Ghostly Procession
Château de Châteaubriant is a stunning mix of 11th-century medieval fortress and Renaissance charm. Originally built to defend the Duchy of Brittany from the Kingdom of France, it's a place steeped in power, intrigue and tragedy.
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The castle is most famous for the ghost of Françoise de Foix, who appears every year on the night of October 16th. Once a lady-in-waiting to Queen Claude and mistress to King Francis I, Françoise met a tragic end. Rumour has it her jealous husband, Jean de Laval, locked her away and either poisoned or bled her to death in 1537. Her ghost and a haunting procession of shadowy figures are said to ascend the castle stairs at midnight, her sobs still echoing through the halls.
Today, the castle is open year-round. There are weekly English guided tours and various cultural events and workshops – blending its haunting history with family-friendly activities.W
The Haunting Horse
Situated in the picturesque Dordogne region, the ruins of Château de Commarque tell a tale as tragic as they are beautiful. The castle, once a stronghold during the Hundred Years' War, is now famous for the spirit of a horse that haunts the grounds.
The story goes that the Count of Commarque's daughter loved the son of his sworn enemy. When the count found out, he locked the young man in a dungeon before beheading him. Legend has it that the young man's horse wanders the ruins in search of its long-lost rider, eternally mourning his fate.
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Visitors report strange hoofbeats echoing through the night air and the sensation of being watched by unseen eyes. But don't worry! You're perfectly safe – unless you're one of the unfortunates who cross its path…
If you're visiting, there are plenty of activities to sample, from nature trails to archery, stone carving and even medieval calligraphy workshops. For the brave at heart, you can even abseil from the dungeon on select dates. Now that's scary.
The White Lady of Bonaguil
Château de Bonaguil, an awe-inspiring medieval fortress in the Lot-et-Garonne region, is a masterpiece of military architecture. Built in the 13th century and fortified in the 15th by Bérenger de Roquefeuil, this sprawling stronghold sits imposingly on a steep rocky hill.
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The most famous spirit roaming these ancient halls is The White Lady or Dame Blanche. Legend suggests she's Marguerite de Fumel, daughter of the castle's ruthless lord, Bérenger. Marguerite, trapped in an unwanted marriage arranged by her father, fled the castle in despair. Now, she returns every November, drifting through the shadowy galleries and battlements where she once walked.
Visitors often report sudden chills, eerie sensations and strange sounds echoing through the fortress. Some even claim to have seen the spectral figure of a woman, her white gown glowing faintly in the moonlight.
From haunted chateaux to eerie monasteries and ghostly gardens, exploring France's spookiest sites provides a unique mix of history, adventure and mystery. Every location hides its own spine-chilling story. And who knows, you might leave with one of your own…
If you're gearing up for a camping trip in France, let Alan Rogers make it unforgettable. With nearly 3,000 handpicked and approved campsites across the country, you'll be set for the holiday of a lifetime... and perhaps the next!
Peter Stannett
Content Writer
Peter is a key part of our creative team; he's a multifaceted individual with a deep love for cooking, travel, and music.
While he does a stellar job of keeping our content fresh, focusing on SEO and monitoring website traffic, his heart truly belongs to the world of culinary delights, exploration, and his guitar.
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