Taking a walk in the Normandy countryside? Stop off at Château de Sassy. We were won over by the beauty of its gardens. The château is also worth a visit. Its chapel, library, stables and large estate will take you back in time.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Château de Sassy, north of Alençon in Normandy.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to Château de Sassy worthwhile?
Yes, the castle is well worth a visit. We were transported back to the 18th century when we visited the estate. The dwelling is particularly beautiful, with its red facade and numerous windows, but the highlight, in our opinion, is the formal garden. Overlooked by splendid Italian-style terraces, it displays volutes and geometric shapes. The park is also well worth a visit. You’ll find it gigantic, with a superb stable and an ancient dovecote.
This is one of the most beautiful places to visit aroundAlençon.
What you can see
A perched castle
As soon as we arrived, we spotted the castle perched on a small hill. The view is magnificent.
17th-century pavilions
The entrance is flanked by two pavilions that predate the construction of the main building. You’ll spot them when you arrive on the estate.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Normandy
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is comfortable enough (distances can be long) but compact (some parking lots and villages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
A courtyard of honor
Introducing the château, the main courtyard opens onto the south façade. We found the château to be very beautiful in its 18th-century style.
A small chapel
To the side, look out for the chapel. We learned that it has changed location 3 times over the years!
Magnificent French gardens
We were overwhelmed by the splendor of the château’s formal gardens. The delicate patterns of pruned vegetation are in keeping with the classic beauty of this style of green space.
Italian-style terraces
Once downstairs, we admired the staircases and Italian-style terraces leading to the garden.
A circular basin and moat
You can also contemplate the circular pond that sits at the center of the garden and watch the swans pass through the moat.
Big stables
We continued our visit to the stables, which look like they could accommodate a large number of horses.
A beautiful dovecote
You can also see an old red-brick dovecote, typical of the area with its circular shape.
WHERE TO STAY IN Alençon
Hotel Château de Saint Paterne – view photos and availability
Hôtel Château de Sarceaux – see photos and availability
Château de Sassy in Boischampré: how to get there
Where to find the castle
- In the town of Boischampré
- In the commune of Saint-Christophe-le-Jajolet
- 35min fromAlençon
- 1 hour from Caen
Access by car and parking
The château is easily reached by car via the D752. Visitor parking is available close to the entrance. If you’re visiting the Normandy countryside, we recommend the car, the most comfortable way to get around the region. If you’d like some advice on renting a car, read our article on the subject.
Public transport access
There is a bus network in the area, but you’ll be limited in terms of times and possibilities for getting to Château de Sassy.
Visiting difficulties
We found the park and gardens quite large. There are also steps down to the garden. The soil is sometimes composed of gravel. We recommend that you wear comfortable shoes.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE activities in Normandy
- Helicopter flight over the cliffs of the Côte d’Albâtre
- Book your time to visit Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
- Take a microlight flight over Mont-Saint-Michel
- Climb the Via Ferrata in Switzerland Normandy
Tips for visiting Castle of Sassy
Schedules and prices
The château and its interiors can be visited in summer from July 1 to August 11, every day from 11am to 5pm.
Adults pay €8 and children €4.
Check out the latest info on the official website here to be sure of opening times and dates.
How long
Allow between 1h and 1h30 to visit the château and its grounds.
Best moment
Summer is the best time of year to visit the château and enjoy the garden in full bloom. Choose the morning for a more exclusive visit.
Direction of visit
We began by admiring the main courtyard, the south facade of the château and the chapel. We then ventured into the gardens. The tour continues in the château, where we discover its famous library. Finally, the stables and dovecote.
Eating out
The site has no catering facilities. We advise you:
- Restaurant Le Fleuré, a 10-minute drive from the château, showcases Normandy produce in semi-gastronomic cuisine.
- Restaurant La Suite in Alençon, a real treat.
Hotels
A number of hotels are located near Château de Sassy. We advise you:
- The Domaine de Cordey establishment – See prices, photos and availability.
- Hotel Domaine du Moulin Foulon – See prices, photos and availability.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Normandy
Inspiration destinations
- Deciding where to go in Normandy – the best destinations
- Our weekend ideas: best-of, romantic, unusual, seaside, luxury, family
- 16 seaside hotels in Normandy
- The most beautiful charming hotels in Normandy
Best of
Practice
- Where to stay in Normandy – best places and hotels
- See our tips for renting a car at CDG airport, Orly airport, Beauvais airport, Caen, Rouen, Bayeux…
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
