Nestled in the romantic rolling hills of Provence, Paris and Bordeaux are some of our favourite, handpicked French châteaux. We give you a sneak peek and access to some of the most exclusive properties that have opened their doors to us and our members.
LA CHARTREUSE DE COS D’ESTOURNEL
La Chartreuse de Cos d’Estournel’s owner is the visionary behind the meticulous La Réserve group, Michel Reybier. He originally bought the extraordinary oriental-inspired château as a private residence, before deciding to open up the eight-bedroom property on the estate to rent. Reybier appointed interiors maximalist Jacques Garcia for the re-design; elaborate doorways were shipped in from Rajasthan, and bedrooms are decked in heavy silk, velvets, and floral flourishes. Guests who are lucky enough to stay get to experience the warmth and elegance of a family retreat whilst also being immersed into life on the estate that comes with full use of Reybier’s private chef and sommelier. The château conveniently sits on the hillside of one of Bordeaux’s leading wine estates.
CRILLON LE BRAVE
Occupying almost an entire 17th-century hilltop hamlet, Crillon le Brave is a quintessentially French hideaway that fuses old world, medieval charm with contemporary luxury. The hotel’s nine stone houses are interlinked with a winding cobblestone path that will transport you back in time. The interior is distinctly modern with traditional Provençal roots: think terracotta tiles, colourful throws, and handpicked antique furniture. Once you’ve settled in, make your way to the outdoor pool for a relaxing swim or to the spa for a restorative massage. And while the sun sets over the slopes of Mont Ventoux in the distance, dine on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine at their signature restaurant.
Airelles Château de Versailles – Le Grand Contrôle
Fulfill every princess fantasy by staying at this recently-opened Château at Versailles. Handcrafted, gilded 18th-century decor is paired with modern luxury in 14 regal rooms and suites, spread throughout three elaborate buildings dating back to 1681. Guests are given private access and exclusive tours of the main Palace allowing you unlimited opportunities to prance around the maze and immaculate gardens all by yourself. Marie Antoinette would most certainly have approved. The château also has an indoor pool, spa, and an exquisite restaurant hosted
by acclaimed French chef, Alain Ducasse.
Château de Berne
Deep amidst the hills and pristine wilderness of Provence, about a 90 minute drive from Nice, a remote winding road leads you to the unspoilt wine estate of Château de Berne. Specialists in organic wines, the Château cultivates roughly 432 acres of plots that produce the world famous Rosé. The property also offers their own olive oil, jam from their orchards, and honey from their hives. The 30,000 sq ft organic vegetable garden is harvested daily for the restaurant which was recently awarded a Green Michelin star, only awarded to establishments pioneering sustainable gastronomy.
Domaine des Etangs
Set in the heart of Charente, the Cognac countryside just outside Bordeaux, Domaine des Etangs resembles a real fairytale castle. The 13th century Château reigns over forests, spiralled gardens, and bucolic farmland, complete with grazing cows. There are 29 suites sprinkled around the estate, amongst the turrets and towers of the main castle. Family portraits hang alongside Picassos and other artwork from the owner’s personal collection. Bike to your favourite Cognac house for a private tasting, pick out a china pattern at the esteemed Royal Limoges, and why not stop for a picnic in an enchanting spot like the Lilly-pad pond
