Domaine de Trévarez - vue panoramiqueDomaine de Trévarez - vue panoramique
©Domaine de Trévarez - vue panoramique|Emmanuel Berthier - CRTB
The must-sees

The Domaine de Trévarez

A must-see site in the Centre-Finistère region, the Domaine of Trévarez never fails to amaze.
This ‘pink castle’ stands proudly in an exuberant natural setting overlooking the Aulne valley and in the heart of the fir-covered Montagnes Noires.
Awarded the ’20th-Century Heritage ; label, it has a whole history to tell and offers up some fantastic events throughout the year.

A majestic castle and park

An eventful history

 

Situated on the site of a former manor house, this pink-brick and Kersanton-stone castle is one of the very last castles to be built in France.

It is, in fact, the result of the dream and ambition of one man, James de Kerjégu. A wealthy politician torn between his duties as President of the Finistère General Council and his life in Paris, he began building this prestigious residence in 1893 to host events for his socialite circle. Sadly, he died shortly after the work was completed in 1908.

As well as its imposing stature, the building was the last architectural folly constructed in this period. The castle is equipped with the most innovative, state-of-the-art facilities: steel framework, lifts, hot water, sanitary facilities, central heating and more.

However, it was not spared the trials and tribulations of history. In July 1940, the castle was requisitioned by the German occupying forces, then bombed by the Royal Air Force in July 1944. The building was heavily damaged.

Ultimately abandoned, it was later bought by the Finistère General Council in 1968.

Portrait JamesdekerjeguPortrait Jamesdekerjegu
©Portrait Jamesdekerjegu

James de Kerjégu, a humanist with a passion for progress, wanted Trévarez to have all the modern comforts available, including in the servants’ quarters: hot water on all floors, central heating, lift and goods lift.

Activities throughout the seasons

 

This castle’s construction was accompanied by the creation and development of a vast 85-hectare park, now labelled a ‘Remarkable Garden’ and ‘Garden of Excellence’ for its collection of camellias.

Several botanical festivals punctuate the year : camellias in March, rhododendrons in April and May, hydrangeas in July and various other garden events.

Temporary exhibitions are also organised throughout the year to showcase this plant heritage.

The ‘Building a Dream’ interpretation trail provides an interactive insight into the estate’s history, as the brainchild of James de Kerjégu.

For over ten years, contemporary artists have also been invited to share their vision of Trévarez.

Christmas in Trévarez

 

The highlight of the year is, without a doubt, the unmissable ‘Christmas in Trévarez’ event. At this time of year, the castle sees record-breaking visitor numbers, as a new theme leads families on a magical tour of the estate each year.

As soon as you enter, young and old alike will be amazed by the festive staging of the large stables.

Then, as they make their way through the park, they’ll find themselves enveloped in the magic of Christmas, as mysterious figures come to life and accompany them all the way to the castle itself. Here, visitors can marvel at the monumental light projections on the building’s outer walls.

In December 2024, they will present ‘The Carousel of Stars’ on the theme of funfairs, following on from ‘Once Upon a Time’ on the theme of fairy-tales in 2023.

Preparing your visit

 

See our page for all the information on the Domaine de Trévarez: opening times, prices and more.

 

Check out our events calendar to find out about the exhibitions and events organised at Trévarez in Saint-Goazec !

 

Why we love it

Family outings

Breton snacks available on site !

Souvenirs to take home

In the heart of magnificent nature

3D reconstructions

Workshops for schoolchildren

A rich calendar of events

A magnificent site

our must-sees