VIP Tour of the Rooftops of Château de Fontaine-Henry

Renowned for its Renaissance façades, opulent interiors, and one of the tallest château rooftops in France, the Château de Fontaine-Henry in Calvados has been a listed historic monument since 1924. After a visit of the château and its stunning grounds, my family and I eagerly seized the opportunity to embark on an exclusive VIP tour. Led by the current owner, Marquis Pierre-Apollinaire d’Oilliamson, the latest in an unbroken 800-year lineage of lords to inherit this historic ancestral home, we were granted rare access to the château’s roof terrace, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Pierre-Apollinaire d’Oilliamson, Marquis and owner of the Château de Fontaine-Henry

As the master of the estate and a wealth of captivating stories, the Marquis d’Oilliamson invites his guests to immerse in the rich history of Château de Fontaine-Henry, a magnificent heritage passed down through the centuries by the de Tilly family since its foundation in the 13th century.

Medieval stronghold and garden of medicinal plants

The Marquis of Oilliamson welcomes us from the porch to what he fondly calls his ‘Loire Valley chateau lost in Normandy.’ Built in the early 13th century, the chateau remains remarkably well-preserved. Its facades, a blend of Louis XII and Renaissance styles, are as intricate as fine lace. Our host shares that it was in the 16th century that the chateau transitioned from a medieval military fortress to a family home. He then invites us to stroll through the chateau’s garden of medicinal plants, inspired by Hildegarde de Bingen, a visionary Benedictine abbess and healer.

The Stalls of the Ladies and the Knights

Tucked within the garden shaped like a human figure, the Notre-Dame de Val Busnel chapel rises impressively, its grand scale and towering height leaving a lasting impression. Dating back to 1200, it once accommodated 120 people, and after an extensive restoration, its walls hold the echoes of centuries past. The stalls that line the central aisle, rare examples of early Gothic design, are steeped in history. Built for a prestigious wedding within the Harcourt family, the chapel has witnessed numerous ceremonies, with the ghosts of knights and ladies still lingering. As the marquis subtly suggests, “The chapel and château still guard many of their untold secrets.”

Exploring the Guardroom and Its Five Staircases

Hidden beneath the castle, this space fascinates me not only for its photographic beauty but also for the mysteries that seem to linger in the air. Yet, I’m far from prepared for the surprises ahead. Every corner holds treasures, blending family secrets, village life, and major historical events. The Guardroom is part of the original structure, built during the Tilly family’s reign. The pillars and ribbed vaulted ceilings are truly remarkable. Five staircases lead up to the upper floors. Here, we’re transported back in time. And more recently, we discover that during the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944, local people sought refuge in this very room.

Coats of Arms and Treasures

Above the three grand fireplaces, nine coats of arms adorn the castle’s thick walls, each a testament to 800 years of lineage and history. The treasures within are as authentic as they are remarkable, antique furniture, fine porcelain, silverware, and an exquisite art collection featuring works by Rubens, Titian, and Hyacinthe Rigaud, the celebrated portraitist of the Sun King. The Marquis d’Oilliamson, a self-proclaimed hedonist, is an enthralling storyteller, and we could spend hours listening to him unravel the secrets of the château. With its 52 distinct levels, this extraordinary residence is a living tapestry of history, offering a glimpse into centuries of heritage and grandeur.

A Privileged Moment on the Rooftop Terrace

The tour concludes with its crowning moment: an ascent to the rooftop, renowned as one of the highest in France, revealing its stunning timber frameworks. This is followed by a convivial drink on the terrace (the So Scottish beverage and buttery biscuits are simply divine!). The panoramic view is nothing short of breathtaking. Throughout the visit, we’re given glimpses into the exceptional craftsmanship that preserves the chateau’s magnificence. A passionate guide can transform a tour, and our host more than delivered, leaving us captivated and eager to return to uncover even more secrets this enchanting place has to offer!

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A unique place

Château de Fontaine Henry

Between Caen and the D-Day beaches, the Château de Fontaine-Henry is a stunning Renaissance manor that has remained in the same family for 800 years.