Chateau De La Croix
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The Guardian newspaper called this Chateau “One of the Top 5 houses to rent in France”. The Times said “its interior is as hip as its exterior is fairy-ta...
Read moreOverview
The Guardian newspaper called this Chateau “One of the Top 5 houses to rent in France”. The Times said “its interior is as hip as its exterior is fairy-tale”. Grazia Magazine called it “Kick your heels off comfy”, while Bella Magazine simply said it had “Lashings of ooh la la”.
Even though it counts Hollywood Royalty on its guest list, it remains surprisingly cost-effective. An oasis of urban cool and relaxed ambiance against a background of traditional, ornate beauty, the Chateau has space and facilities to keep any guest happy.
Within the Chateau is a bar, private cinema, 14.5m heated swimming pool, billiard room, music area, piano salon, voluminous dining hall and restaurant standard kitchen. Accommodation for up to 24 guests across nine huge bedrooms. Self-cater or let the Chateau staff mollycoddle you – you decide.
The bedrooms at Château de la Croix have each been individually designed with king or queen size beds, crystal chandeliers and stylish soft furnishings. Each room is equipped with Nespresso coffee machines, hairdryers, plush towels for both the room and pool and luxurious bathing products by Penhaligon's.
The Chateau is great for families too. There is enough room to keep kids out from under parents feet and many activities to keep them amused – jamming in the music room, playing around the pool, outside games in the grounds, a football pitch, ping-pong and games.
This is a destination for all reasons, and whether it’s a group holiday with the kids, a special celebration, family reunion or even a girl’s weekend, it’s a place you’ll always remember.
What you should know…
- For further accommodation within the estate, please enquire about the Coach House apartment (10 guests) and the Garden Suite with disabled access (4 guests)
Property Features
Château Interiors (24 guests, various levels)
Ground Level
- White salon overlooking formal gardens
- Dining hall
- Kitchen, fully-equipped to restaurant standard
- Lounge bar with well-stocked bar (regional wines, champagne and spirits)
- Music room with baby-grand piano
- Cinema room with 9 foot screen, Netflix and surround sound system
- Billiard room with full-size American pool table
Second Level
- Queen bedroom with ensuite bathroom
- Queen bedroom with ensuite bathroom
West Wing connecting to the main chateau (Second Level)
- Bedroom with two King-sized beds and ensuite bathroom
- King bedroom with ensuite bathroom
- Queen bedroom with ensuite bathroom
- Twin bedroom
- Bedroom with two King-sized beds
- Shared family suite bathroom (for twin bedroom and bedroom with 2 King-sized beds)
Third Level
- Queen bedroom with ensuite bathroom
- Bedroom with two Queen-sized beds and ensuite bathroom
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (14.5m) with poolside terrace and gated access
- Courtyard for al-fresco dining
- Rear terrace with bistro tables and parasols
- Formal gardens
- Barbecue
- Five acres of private grounds
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning
- Satellite TV
- Cinema room with Netflix and surround sound system
- Baby grand piano and music area
- Full-size American pool table
- Nespresso coffee machines (every bedroom)
- Hairdryers (every bedroom)
- Complimentary Penhaligon toiletries
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau De La CroixChâteau de la Croix is in the Charente region of south-western France, close to the Dordogne border and just half an hour from the wonderful city of Angoulême.
If travelling by train, arrive via TGV into Angoulême train station (the fast service from Paris Montparnasse to Angoulême takes two hours) or fly to Limoges (84km) or Bergerac Airport (104km). Alternatively, traffic dependent, it is around a 5 to 6-hour drive south of Caen-Ouistreham or Saint-Malo.
The local village within walking distance has all the essentials – boulangerie, butchers, tabac, grocery store, pharmacy, doctors and even a cinema showing French and international films. The nearest supermarket is 9km away near Montbron. The village is also home to a tennis court (racquets are available from the château) whilst horse and carriage rides can be arranged from the château’s gates.
Outdoor activity-lovers note a choice of three 18-hole golf course within reasonable distance, the nearest being Golf International de la Prèze (18km) and bike hire can be arranged to take advantage of the network of cycling trails that passes through the village. Horse-riding is a popular pursuit, there is a tree-top adventure centre with zipwires and a pretty lake around half an hour away at Périgord Vert Aventures as well as championship level go-karting course 15km by car.
Visit Montbron (9km) for canoeing, kayaking and fishing on the Tardoire River whilst keen gourmands should book a table at the Michelin starred restaurant, Moulin de la Tardoire, by the banks of the river. Try local wine produced in the vineyards of Saint-Sornin (10km) and visit the bustling Wednesday morning market in Piégut-Pluviers (24km). The Limousin beef found in many excellent restaurants in the historic town of La Rochefoucauld (16km) is another highlight of this area.
Grand Etang de St-Estèphe is around a 20-minute drive away, a vast lake with a fantastic beach, supervised swimming in the summer alongside seasonal watersports, volleyball, fishing, a playground and a gourmet restaurant overlooking the lake.
There are further canoeing opportunities as well as river cruises in the delightful town of Brantôme (41km) by the Dronne River. Visit on a Tuesday or Friday morning to experience its market and look out for water jousting tournaments on Friday evenings in the height of the summer. Both the Abbaye de Brantôme and Château de Bourdeilles (50km) are worthy of a visit during your time here.
Other days out include the Dordogne town of Ribérac (50km) on a Friday morning for its atmospheric market, charming Nontron (23km) known for its arts and crafts heritage, and Saint-Jean-de-Côle (45km), classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.
Not forgetting the superb city of Angoulême (40km), famed for its brilliant museum, Musée de la Bande Dessinée, and annual vintage car race, Le Circuit des Remparts.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Limoges Airport
(84km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Bergerac Airport
(104km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Saint-Malo/Caen-Ouistreham
(480km/503km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Angoulême
(25km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Montbron
(9 km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
One in the local village
(650m) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Grocery store in local village
(650m) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarché Montbron
(9km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Angoulême
(27km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
In the village
(Short walk) |
||
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 AgesFamilies are warmly welcomed and there is something for everyone from walks through the five acres of private grounds to swimming in the large pool and relaxing in the cinema room.
There is plenty to keep all ages entertained across the region as well. Activities include horse-riding, hiking, cycling and even kayaking along the Tardoire River just a short drive away. There is also a tennis court in the village within walking distance.
Discover the championship level go-karting track around a 15-minute drive away in the Dordogne region and, a little further afield, Périgord Vert Aventures (25km) for zipwires, tree-top courses, lakeside picnics, summer paddle boat rental and more.
Château de La Rochefoucauld is another great trip out - children can dress up in medieval costumes as well as tour the fascinating castle.
Families will also love spending the day in the charming city of Angoulême with its shops, restaurants and modern street art - a visit to the Musée de la Bande Dessinée is a must for comic-book enthusiasts. The city is also home to the exciting vintage car race that takes place annually in September, the Circuit des Remparts.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Kid-friendly museum
- Kid-friendly excursions
- Water excursions/Boat trips
- Forest park/High-rope course
- Ruins
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Go-Karting
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Pool/Snooker
- Home Cinema
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Maid Service Included
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Catering Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Maid Service Included
- On-Site Concierge
- Bespoke Catering 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.
- The Chateau may be hired with your custom level of catering. You can choose to go fully self-catered if you prefer, or the Chateau can provide any level of catering, from a one-off meal, to breakfast each day, to a multi-course extravaganza.
- There are two barbecues at the chateau, and again you can do-it-yourself or have the caterers do it for you.
- The Chateau offers a shopping service so the larders and fridges are stocked when you arrive, and similarly the bars can also be stocked for you should you wish.
- The kitchen is a fully equipped restaurant-standard facility, with several fridges, walk-in store cupboards, and more crockery, cutlery and other kitchen utensils than you would ever require.
- There are two restaurants in the village, which is just 500m from the Chateau, and there are many more dining choices within a 10-20 minute drive.
- Included in the hire rate are the services of a caretaker and housekeeper for a period of 2 hours everyday. If you need any additional housekeeping this can be arranged.
For full-on pampering, why not indulge in some Beauty Treatment sessions, which can provided by a fully qualified beautician.
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
Here is your chance to hold a spectacular wedding at a château which, at first glance, might have j...
Read moreEvent information
Here is your chance to hold a spectacular wedding at a château which, at first glance, might have jumped straight from a book of fairy tales onto a magical spot in Aquitaine. Château de la Croix offers the perfect romantic setting with exquisite decor and stunning formal gardens.
The venue collaborates with a select group of top-tier suppliers ranging from experienced planners to high-end caterers, ensuring attention to every essential detail. Across an exclusive 3-day wedding, a bespoke celebration can be arranged from the arrival evening soirée to a post-wedding garden party and barbecue.
Welcome to your exclusive French wedding escape, where your love story begins!
Wedding Reception
This usually takes place on the terrace near the formal gardens. For the evening dance party, this can be hosted in the banquet hall or outside beneath a marquee.
Wedding Ceremony
The banquet hall is suitable for ceremonies with up to 120 guests whilst the chateau courtyard is available for larger weddings/events for up to 200 guests.
The owners can provide details of an English-speaking celebrant.
Where to Stay
The château can accommodate up 24 guests, the Coach House is for 10 guests and the Garden Suite can sleep 4 guests - therefore, 38 people can stay on the estate.
A further 40 guests are able to stay within walking distance of the château, 50 guests within a 5-minute drive and many more within a 10-minute drive of the château.
The owners can supply details of local transport firms.
Wedding Planning
For weddings a list of preferred wedding planners will be given to you upon booking. For standard events the château's events team handles all planning.
Catering
The château offers various catering options and partners with an external caterer for all main events.
Wedding Packages
Wedding package costs are on request. The main package includes 3 nights luxury accommodation for up to 24 guests and the exclusive use of the château and grounds. Please contact us for further details.
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €3000 paid via bank transfer to the owner four weeks before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. (kitchens and bedrooms) and 11.00 a.m. (rest of building and grounds). |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €3000 paid via bank transfer to the owner four weeks before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. (kitchens and bedrooms) and 11.00 a.m. (rest of building and grounds). |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. |
| Pets welcome? | Pets may be permitted but strictly on request only (at least 2 weeks before departure) and with prior agreement with the owner. The owner may decline such request. |
| Changeover day | Any day except Saturday or Sunday. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, standard changeover clean included. 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. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | 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. |
| Insurance | It is recommended that all guests take out insurance to cover against potential cancellation and any accidental damage caused during your stay at the property. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Minimum stay | 3 nights. All other durations on request. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 24 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 21st 2024 - Apr 1st 2025 | £7,083 | £10,625 | £14,167 | £21,732 |
| Apr 1st 2025 - Jun 1st 2025 | £7,928 | £11,893 | £15,858 | £24,325 |
| Jun 1st 2025 - Oct 1st 2025 | £8,283 | £12,425 | £16,568 | £25,414 |
| Oct 1st 2025 - Nov 1st 2025 | £7,928 | £11,893 | £15,858 | £24,325 |
| Nov 1st 2025 - May 25th 2026 | £7,083 | £10,625 | £14,167 | £21,732 |
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.
How long have you owned the property?
We have owned the property for 13 years, and after two years of renovation, have hired it out as a holiday home for 11 year...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
We have owned the property for 13 years, and after two years of renovation, have hired it out as a holiday home for 11 years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The Chateau is everything you'd expect of a chateau – enclosed grounds, turrets, a tower, all built of stone – but it is also amazingly light due to its huge windows and many French doors. It sits in five acres of its own private grounds, but is on the edge of a small village so it isn't isolated and there is the opportunity to interact with normal everyday French village life.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
There has been a Chateau on this site since the 14th century. And when we get some free time, I have promised myself I will research its history.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Quite a few, but we tend not to over-promote this. Guests have included, among others, Brad and Angelina for a two week family holiday away from the paparazzi. Garth Jennings, film director. Olivier Nakache and Eric Toledano, film directors/writers. Cédric Klapisch, Film Director/Writer.
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do?
Drink local country wine or cognac.
Really eat?
Local Foie Gras
Really see?
See the sunflowers
The region is stuffed with pretty, unspoiled village and towns, nestled in rolling countryside spread with vineyards. Cycling is fabulous here with miles of public rights of way and tracks through the countryside, plus a network of "voie verts" (where old railway lines are converted to cycle tracks) – there is one which runs right behind the Chateau, with flat, safe cycling in dappled sunshine.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Go to Angouleme in the evening. The old quarter of the city (called the Plateau) is cobbled and car free, with a maze of old streets around the old covered market, where many, many cafes, bars and restaurants spill out onto the narrow lanes. On a summer evening it is buzzy and fun, and very friendly and welcoming. A relatively little known gem of a town.
Reviews
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Magnificent Chateau
Magnificent Chateau, impeccable wi-fi.
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I love this place
Absolutely magnificent château. Large reception room, numerous bedrooms, swimming pool, wi-fi available everywhere, bar, huge garden and even a piano! The decorations are breath-taking. I love this place.
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Beautiful
Beautiful chateau.
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I would recommend this place to anyone
I can’t put into words how great the team were. We stayed for three days for a wedding which was hosted on the grounds. Everything about the experience was on point. The staff were super attentive, the rooms were out of this world in the whole experience was 10 out of 10.
With it being such a large plot of land and being gated meant the kids could roam free without any risk.
I would recommend this place to anyone. -
A truly perfect stay!
Our stay with friends in this castle was incredible. The owners are a charming family, welcoming and attentive to our needs. The interior spaces were elegant, the gardens and swimming pool perfect for relaxing. The evenings were memorable and the food was delicious. A truly perfect stay!
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I recommend without any hesitation!
The place is simply magnificent. A huge castle, very quiet, ideal for resting or, on the contrary, partying; you will not be disturbed! The exterior is also sumptuous, with a large swimming pool perfect for cooling off in summer! The owners are adorable, really very professional, always attentive and ready to make your stay unforgettable! I recommend without any hesitation!
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Dreamy French chateau
My cousin got married at this beautiful property and we were fortunate enough to stay for several days. The place is just everything you imagine a dreamy French chateau to be, from the décor, food, the beautiful grounds, service. Total peace and relaxation.
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A stunning traditional Chateau
A stunning traditional Chateau beautifully restored and decorated. The gardens were well kept and a lovely quiet area to relax by the pool.
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Would recommend to anyone!
Had a great family reunion at the chateau. Would recommend to anyone!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
