CHÂTEAU DE FONDAT – THE ART OF LIVING IN GASCONY
Set in the heart of Gascony, just 2km from Saint-Justin in the Landes, Château de Fondat is an exceptional historic estate offering an enchanting setting for weddings, private celebrations, family gatherings, corporate stays and special events.
Surrounded by a magnificent 4-hectare landscaped park and backed by 40 hectares of private forest, the château combines centuries of history with elegant reception spaces and accommodation for up to 20 guests on site.
Whether you are planning an intimate celebration, a destination wedding in southwest France, a family reunion or a management retreat, Fondat offers privacy, character and a truly memorable setting.
A CHÂTEAU WITH CENTURIES OF HISTORY
The history of Fondat stretches back to the Middle Ages, although carved flints discovered on the estate demonstrate human occupation dating back to prehistoric times.
Originally a feudal stronghold, Fondat was ceded in 1260 to Constance, Vicomtesse de Marsan and Princess of Béarn, who founded the nearby bastide of Saint-Justin with the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem.
After falling into ruin, the estate was taken over in the 16th century by Jehan de Malartic with the assistance of a grant from King Henri IV. The Malartic family remained at Fondat for almost three centuries.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the château and its gardens became a meeting place for literary figures. Poet André Chénier found inspiration here, while writer Jules Barbey d'Aurevilly also wrote at Fondat.
The château still contains important historic features, including a 17th-century natural-stone stairwell and elements of the Grand Salon associated with Napoleon III.
Following an extensive programme of preservation, the château, Grand Pavillon, stables, dovecote, winery and park were listed as Historic Monuments in 1999.
WEDDINGS AT CHÂTEAU DE FONDAT
Château de Fondat provides a wonderfully romantic setting for a destination wedding in France.
When booked for a wedding, the estate can be entirely privatised, allowing you to make full use of the château, reception areas, park and lawns for your celebrations.
Depending on your plans, celebrations can include outdoor ceremonies, cocktails beneath the trees, garden parties, wedding breakfasts, evening receptions, dancing and a relaxed brunch the following morning.
Fondat is available throughout the year, with stays possible from one night upwards.
Couples are also free to choose their own wedding suppliers, giving you considerable flexibility when creating your celebration.
LE GRAND PAVILLON – INDOOR RECEPTIONS
Located beside the château, the historic Grand Pavillon contains two principal reception rooms.
La Salle de Bal – Ground Floor
Approximately 100m² with natural stone floors, lime-coated walls, large windows and a central entrance opening towards the grounds.
The room is divided into two communicating spaces and can accommodate approximately 80–90 seated guests. Accessible toilet facilities are available on this level.
La Salle des Lumières – First Floor
A beautiful 150m² reception room featuring authentic wooden floors, an impressive traditional roof structure, stained glass and abundant natural light.
Accessible by a wide wooden staircase and lift, the room can accommodate approximately 100–120 seated guests.
LE CHAPITEAU & OUTDOOR CELEBRATIONS
For larger gatherings, Le Chapiteau is a 180m² pagoda-style marquee adjoining the Grand Pavillon and overlooking the lawns.
It provides additional sheltered reception space and allows celebrations of up to approximately 150 guests, depending on the chosen layout and event.
The surrounding park provides an extraordinary backdrop for outdoor ceremonies, cocktails, buffets, photographs, garden parties and next-day brunches.
THE PARK & GROUNDS
Fondat's park is one of the estate's defining features.
Four hectares of landscaped grounds contain shaded lawns, mature trees and a beautiful water mirror reflecting the château, while the estate is backed by approximately 40 hectares of forest.
Among its botanical treasures is “Gulliver”, a Zelkova more than three centuries old and recognised as a Remarkable Tree of France. The grounds also feature ancestral magnolias and impressive bald cypresses.
It is a wonderfully peaceful environment in which to celebrate, relax and experience the atmosphere of historic Gascony.
ACCOMMODATION – UP TO 20 GUESTS
Château de Fondat can accommodate up to 20 guests on site, divided between accommodation within the château and the separate Hunting Lodge.
Suite Vicomtesse – 2 to 4 guests
Super king-size bed (2m wide), preparation room with an additional double bed, large mirror and private bathroom with bath and WC.
Suite Troubadour – 4 guests
Two separate bedrooms, each with a 140cm double bed, together with a private bathroom with bath and WC.
Chambre Cafarelli – 2 guests
Two 100cm single beds and private bathroom with shower.
Jehan Dormitory – 4 guests
Four 90cm single beds with a private bathroom on the landing, including shower and WC.
Hunting Lodge – Up to 6 guests
Independent gîte with equipped kitchen, two double bedrooms, two private bathrooms and a living room with sofa bed.
Additional beds may be possible depending upon requirements, while further accommodation is available in the surrounding area.
PRIVATE EVENTS & FAMILY CELEBRATIONS
Fondat is not limited to weddings.
The estate can provide an atmospheric setting for anniversaries, birthdays, family reunions, cousin gatherings, New Year's Eve celebrations, private dinners and weekends with friends.
Facilities include reception spaces, marquee, catering areas, parking, accommodation and extensive outdoor areas.
Events can be arranged for lunch, an evening, an overnight stay or an entire weekend.
CORPORATE & MANAGEMENT RETREATS
For smaller professional groups, Château de Fondat offers a distinctive alternative to a conventional hotel or conference venue.
Management teams can stay within the château in complete privacy, surrounded by the tranquillity of the park.
Accommodation is suitable for approximately 7 guests using individual rooms or up to 12 using shared rooms, with a dining room, Wi-Fi, billiards and a relaxation lounge available on site.
A dedicated contact can assist in preparing your professional stay.
GUIDED VISITS
Château de Fondat also opens its doors for guided historical visits.
Individual guided tours are available from April to September, every Thursday and Sunday at 5pm, subject to advance booking.
Tours last approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Groups of at least 10 people can be welcomed throughout the year by appointment.
Individual tour prices currently indicated are €10 for adults, €8 for visitors aged 12–18 and students, with children under 12 admitted free.
A UNIQUE HISTORIC VENUE IN SOUTHWEST FRANCE
From the château and Grand Pavillon to the remarkable trees, lawns, forest and water mirror, Fondat provides a setting that feels both grand and deeply personal.
For a wedding, private celebration, corporate retreat or special gathering, Château de Fondat offers the opportunity to privately enjoy a remarkable part of Gascony's heritage.
Please make an enquiry directly with Château de Fondat to discuss availability, current venue hire prices, accommodation and the requirements for your individual wedding, event or stay.
PROPERTY DETAILS
Property Type: Château / Wedding & Event Venue
Location: Saint-Justin, Landes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
Address: 1638 Route de Créon, 40240 Saint-Justin
On-site Accommodation: Up to 20 guests
Château Accommodation: Up to 14 guests
Hunting Lodge: Up to 6 guests
Reception Capacity: Up to approximately 120 seated indoors
Marquee Capacity: Up to approximately 150 guests
Park: 4 hectares
Estate: Backed by approximately 40 hectares of forest
Weddings: Yes
Private Events: Yes
Corporate Events / Retreats: Yes
Family Celebrations: Yes
Guided Visits: Yes
Wi-Fi: Yes
Parking: Yes
Accessible Reception Facilities: Yes
Open: Events available throughout the year
Kitchenware Appliances
Fixtures & Equipment
External Features
Local Attractions
Château de Fondat lies in the Landes department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, in the heart of historic Gascony and Armagnac country.
The château is just 2km from Saint-Justin, an attractive medieval bastide founded in the 13th century. The surrounding countryside is characterised by forests, vineyards, traditional villages and the landscapes associated with Armagnac production.
The location makes Fondat particularly appealing for guests looking to combine a wedding or private event with time exploring southwest France.
Nearby places of interest include Labastide-d'Armagnac, renowned for its beautiful arcaded Place Royale, and the wider Bas-Armagnac region with its estates, vineyards and traditional producers.
The area is ideal for country walks, cycling, discovering local markets and enjoying the food, wine and relaxed lifestyle of Gascony.
Special Rental Conditions
Prices available on request and tailored according to the date, number of guests, duration of hire, accommodation requirements and reception spaces required.
Private & Corporate Stays:
Available on request. Château de Fondat can accommodate up to 20 guests on site, with different arrangements available for private groups, management retreats and special events.
Château de Fondat is available for weddings, private celebrations, family gatherings, corporate stays and other special events throughout the year.
The estate can be privatised according to your individual requirements, with use of the château, reception rooms, park, lawns, marquee and on-site accommodation arranged according to the event.
Wedding and event hire can be arranged from one night upwards, including weekend stays where required.
On-site accommodation is available for up to 20 guests, with additional accommodation available locally for larger groups.
Reception capacities include approximately:
• 80–90 seated guests – Salle de Bal
• 100–120 seated guests – Salle des Lumières
• Up to 150 guests – Le Chapiteau / marquee
Couples are free to choose their own wedding suppliers.
Please contact Château de Fondat directly for current prices, availability and a personalised quotation based on your dates, number of guests and individual requirements.
Availability Calendar
Property Exterior
Local Attractions
The château is just 2km from Saint-Justin, an attractive medieval bastide founded in the 13th century. The surrounding countryside is characterised by forests, vineyards, traditional villages and the landscapes associated with Armagnac production.
The location makes Fondat particularly appealing for guests looking to combine a wedding or private event with time exploring southwest France.
Nearby places of interest include Labastide-d'Armagnac, renowned for its beautiful arcaded Place Royale, and the wider Bas-Armagnac region with its estates, vineyards and traditional producers.
The area is ideal for country walks, cycling, discovering local markets and enjoying the food, wine and relaxed lifestyle of Gascony.
In the area
This Property is situated in Landes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine (Including 'Ile de Re')
Please note that the location on this map is an approximate guide, normally to the closest town or village.




