Chateau Art De Vivre
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Overview
On the Médoc peninsula north of Bordeaux, it’s wonderful to be able to combine tastings at some of France’s finest wine châteaux with family fun on the Atlantic coastline whilst staying at the very welcoming Château Art de Vivre.
With vineyard views from its picture-book windows and the most beautiful sunsets as the evening falls, Château Art de Vivre is such an inviting family home which allows you to spend quality time with loved ones whilst experiencing the authenticity of this part of southern France. Ideal for families or a group of friends, the open-plan living and dining area is a convivial space to gather together, create feasts in the contemporary kitchen and drink fine wine from nearby Médoc wineries.
Four double bedrooms, which can also be made up as twins, allow space for up to 8 guests and three benefit from en suite shower rooms. Artwork adorns the walls and traditional features such as exposed stone and wood beams add to the château’s character and ambience.
Set within 8000m2 of enclosed parkland, there is so much space whether you wish to cool off in the charming swimming pool, relax in the hot tub, play on the swing, slide and trampoline or visit the friendly animals – as well as hens, geese and a couple of sheep, there are two donkeys who love to be groomed, fed and walked.
Wander through the local village to the beautiful banks of the Gironde estuary where you will find a picturesque restaurant as well as an oyster hut and wine-bar open in the height of the summer. Of course, there are so many wineries to visit from prestigious châteaux to family-run establishments. The famous wine town of Pauillac is only 23km away, also a paradise for food lovers with its weekly market and excellent restaurants.
The Médoc peninsula is also known for its vast beaches, sandy dunes, surfing spots, sailing lakes, cycling trails and forests ideal for long walks and horse-riding. The seaside resorts of Montalivet les Bains and Soulac-sur-Mer, around half an hour away, are especially atmospheric in the summer or head to Plage du Pin Sec for endless shores and the most stunning sunsets.
What you should know…
- This is a lovely and very welcoming house for families – do note however that the mezzanine bedroom (with open sides) is not suitable for children.
- Two additional beds for children can be made available in the loft area upon request.
Property Features
Château Interiors
Ground Floor
- Open-plan living area
- Open-plan kitchen and dining area
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm or can be made into twin) and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm or can be made into twin) and en suite shower room
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm or can be made into twin) connects to above bedroom
Please note one of the en suite bedrooms has an open mezzanine level
Loft Area
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm or can be made into twin) and en suite shower room *two additional beds for children can be made available in the loft area upon request.
- Lounge
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (3x7m) with fencing/gate access and safety alarm. Open approximately May to September
- Outdoor hot tub
- Al-fresco dining area
- Barbecue
- Children’s play area with swing, trampoline and slide
- Animal enclosure (two donkeys, two sheep, two geese and hens)
- Bikes (adults and children)
- Enclosed parkland (8000m2)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Fireplace
- Cable TV
- Piano
- Board games
- Table tennis
- Outdoor play area
- Bathrobes
- Hairdryers
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau Art De VivreChâteau Art de Vivre is set in a small rural village on the Médoc peninsula, just a short stroll from the banks of the Gironde estuary and around a 90-minute drive north of Bordeaux.
The small village is surrounded by idyllic Médoc vineyards and there are a number of wineries nearby. There is also a restaurant within a 15-minute stroll overlooking the Gironde estuary, usually open for lunch and dinner (check opening days in advance depending on the time of year) and a charming wine-bar and oyster hut in July and August. A wide range of amenities including restaurants and supermarkets can be found in Lesparre-Médoc, about 11km by car.
Some of France’s finest wine appellations can be sampled within a short drive. The well-regarded wine town of Pauillac is around 23km away whilst Margaux is a 50-minute drive – look out for famous châteaux such as Latour, Lafite-Rothschild and Mouton-Rothschild as well as plenty of small family-run wineries. Food-lovers should visit Pauillac’s Saturday morning market and look out for a number of excellent restaurants serving the very best cuisine of this region from fresh mussels and oysters to foie gras and garlic.
The Médoc peninsula is also home to a stunning coastline of vast beaches, sand dunes and forests, perfect for watersports, long walks, horse-riding and cycling along the many trails. The seaside resorts of Montalivet and Soulac-sur-Mer are fantastic days out or head south to Lacanau with its surfing spots and sailing on Étang de Lacanau.
It’s around a 90-minute drive to Bordeaux or pick up the train from in Lesparre-Médoc. The restaurant scene is fantastic, there are so many wonderful wine bars and its historic centre will amaze you in so many ways. Take a boat trip along the Garonne, visit La Cité du Vin or cool off by the fountains at the spectacular Miroir d'eau.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Bordeaux
(72km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
La Rochelle
(128km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small rural village
(Short walk) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
On the edge of the village
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Carrefour Lesparre
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Lesparre-Médoc
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Montalivet les Bains
(30km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Margaux
(52km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Bordeaux
(74km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Lesparre
(12km) |
||
Region
Aquitaine’s reputation as a varied and enchanting destination is well-earned – whether you’re looking for relaxation or excitement, this beautiful part of south-western France is a feast for every one of the senses. To make sure you’re getting the very best of your holiday (and to clue you up if you’re thinking of going) check out our wonderful travel guide – it’s full of tips, info and the things you really shouldn’t miss when you visit unforgettable Aquitaine.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesSet on the Médoc peninsula near the banks of the Gironde, families will love the close proximity to stunning Atlantic beaches and beautiful forests for a range of outdoor activities.
Around 30km away, Montalivet les Bains offers wide sandy beaches, sand dunes and forests as well as an adventure park with tree-top activity courses, go-karting, mini-golf and other family-friendly attractions.
Slightly further north is the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer with more glorious beaches, watersports including surfing and a bustling summer atmosphere.
Lacanau is also very beautiful and another popular spot for surfers whilst there are sailing opportunities on its lake. Kite-surfing enthusiasts should head to Lac d'Hourtin, around an hour away.
The Médoc peninsula is a paradise for cyclists with trails along the coastline heading as far as Cap Ferrat as well as horse-riding and wonderful walks through the Médoc forests.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Swings
- Slide
- Trampoline
- Board games
- Bikes
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Transfers Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- Massage Service Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting/childcare services
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning
- Private chef
- Pre-stocked fridge/shopping
- Vineyard tours
- Massage service
- Transfers
- Car hire
- Babysitting
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
| Security deposit | €2500 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2500 charged to client's credit card as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed weekly. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes, changed weekly. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €240, payable to Oliver's Travels at the time of balance payment. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to September. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights in July and August, 2 nights during all other periods. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot and highchair are available on request. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival (typically costs €1-€5 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Two additional beds for children can be made available in the loft area upon request. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 8 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 30th 2024 - Jun 30th 2025 | £1,637 | £2,456 | £3,275 | £4,093 | £5,730 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | - | - | - | - | £6,397 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Jun 3rd 2026 | £1,637 | £2,456 | £3,275 | £4,093 | £5,730 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
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A superbly appointed place to stay in idyllic location.
A superbly appointed place to stay in idyllic location. The village of Saint Christoly Medoc is a place to be in the moment with family and friends. We even cycled though the vineyards and found a basketball court 3 KMs away. Food, scenery and trips to Pin Sec on the coast all in a sublime area of South West France.
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5 stars!
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Two fabulous weeks
We just spent two fabulous weeks at Château Art De Vivre. We had our two daughters and their families with us. The granddaughters are 2,4,5 & 6. The house is ideal for three families as parents and kids have 2 private areas and grandparents have their area so there is as much separation as you need. It is very tastefully renovated with beautiful bathrooms and plenty of space, and feels very welcoming. The house has all you could want including a generously supplied kitchen and a huge table for outdoor dining. It is the host’s second house and is furnished as such. The grounds are large (situated next to a vineyard). The trampoline, play houses and slide were a huge bonus for the kids and all of us enjoyed the pool. It was very calm and peaceful, but within a 5-10 minute walk of two restaurants, and a fifteen minute drive to a large supermarket.
We had fun at the weekly village night food market, drove to the beautiful Atlantic coast (30 mins) on several occasions and to Hourtin Lake (20 mins) which is ideal for little ones.
Our host was most accommodating and helped us whenever we asked. His wife arranged a great wine tasting at Pichon Baron and an exceptional evening (nibble and sip) at a Fisherman’s cottage on the Gironde. We highly recommend Château Art de Vivre. -
Outstanding chateau
Outstanding Chateau in a scenic part of the Bordeaux region. Close to vineyards galore and breathtaking views of the area. The owner and manager were extra helpful with suggestions on where to go to visit Chateaux and taste wine as well as other places to see. We especially enjoyed a day at Soulac-sur-Mer on their suggestion. We also tried out their suggestion to eat at the Kayak Cafe (the restaurant doesn’t take credit cards) which was great for simple food and is located on a canal.
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Real great time
We had a real great time at David's place. The kids loved roaming the field with the donkeys, geese and chicken, very quiet place, all comfort required, located nearby quite some nice chateaux to visit, perhaps a little bit away from groceries but that adds to the charm, driving through the vineyards in the morning to get your croissant and baguette. David was a great host. We will definitely go back.
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