Originally constructed in 1341, Château d'Urtubie has seen many developments and upheavals that shaped France over the centuries. Yet despite its age, one constant is that it has always remained in the care of the de Coral family throughout all this time. The family has even hosted many important guests, such as King Louis XI in 1463, when he personally mediated between Aragon and Castille. During the Napoleonic Wars of the 19th century, rival commanders Marshal General Jean-de-Dieu Soult and Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley would also spend some time at the chateau, though of course, separately.

Its current owner is Count Laurent de Coral, representing the 24th generation of his clan. The idea of opening the chateau to the public came from his father, Paul Philippe de Coral, who began accepting public tours of the estate in 1987. By the early 1990s, Paul Philippe expanded the endeavor to offering lodgings to select guests. Unfortunately, the 23rd Comte de Coral would pass away in 1996, handing over the estate to a young Laurent, who was now the 24th Comte de Coral. Picking up where his father left off, Laurent expanded the chateau's services, remodeling more rooms, adding amenities and comfort appliances, and even constructing an outdoor swimming pool.

Design and Architecture

Although the Château d'Urtubie was built during the 14th century, the de Coral family has faithfully maintained and preserved their estate since its construction. The main building was intended to be a fortified keep, which also explains its various round turrets designed with arrow slits. Unlike many other estates in the region, Château d'Urtubie preserved much of its classical gray stone architecture, instead of remodeling in colors and styles that are more commonly seen in French Basque.

Its first major expansion was in the 16th century, while a chapel was added during the 17th century. In the 18th century, the gardens were expanded with the addition of an orangery, which was also quite popular at the time.

Since its opening to the public, Count Laurent de Coral has made sure his accommodations are always kept up-to-date with hospitality trends. Yet for the interior decor, he can proudly boast that the many antiques and artworks that decorate his chateau are all from his family's collections, amassed over the centuries, a fact that only a few other chateaux in France, or even Europe, can brag about.

Breakfast

For 13.50 EUR (15.50), guests can start their day like a local with a delicious regional buffet breakfast. Served in the charmingly decorated Arms Room, expect favorites such as croissants and brioche along with many locally produced items, including cold cuts, jams, and fruit salads.