LA ROCHE COURBON is located in Saint-Porchaire between Saintes and Rochefort in the Charente-Maritime. Built in the 15th century, the château was substantially altered in the 17th. The arcade which supports the balcony was added to the façade, as was the double flight of steps which leads down to the French gardens where a series of well-integrated terraces with balustrades leads to the magnificent east-west views and to the steps flanking a water-course. The extension of the gardens gained on the marsh has led to their partial reconstruction on pilotis.
Inside : A room with pictures painted on wood in 1662, Louis XIII room with painted beams, The saintongeaise kitchen, Guard room with vaulted ceiling.
The reception is open everyday from 10am to 12pm and from 2pm to 6pm from the 1st of October to the 30st of April, everyday from 10am to 7pm from the 1st of May to the 30st of September. Open on public holidays.
Guided visit of the Castle (45 min): everyday apart from Thursdays from 15/09 to 15/05.
Free visit of the gardens, park and caves (from 2h to 2h30): everyday from 10am to 12pm and 2pm to 6pm (in Winter 5.30pm).
Text quoted from Angouleme Tourist Board. Image copyright Chateau de la Roche Courbon – Creative Commons.