Chateau Louis

Stay in your very own historic French château set in beautiful parkland in the Loire valley, perfectly located for visiting Le Mans, Tours and some of the country’s most famous castles by the Loire River.

The origins of the château date back to the 12th century when the ancient fortress was first built on top of a hill overlooking the countryside below. In later years, medieval towers and a Renaissance wing were added, then the fortified layout was completely changed in the 1840s when a newer part was built. Nowadays, up to 16 guests can soak up the castle’s fascinating heritage across its eight impressive bedrooms, most of which feature en suite bathrooms.

The oldest part of the château is home to the King’s Bedroom with its huge fireplace, dressing room and en suite bathroom – sleep peacefully knowing that two French kings have been hosted in this room. Then there’s the three good-sized bedrooms in the medieval tower, all with king-size beds and traditional furnishings, alongside the newer 19th century wing with its four en suite bedrooms showcasing charming décor and character.

The communal spaces equally radiate the rich history of this estate – there’s the lounge with parquet flooring, the Napoleonic library with its marble fireplace and kitchen with doors leading out to the terrace with glorious valley views. Upstairs in the older wing you will find a reception space with mistral gallery whilst discos can be set up in part of the castle’s cellar – indeed Château Louis would make a fine events or wedding venue.

A range of services can be organised by the on-site staff including continental breakfast, lunch and/or dinner – you could even arrange a costume dinner in the Knight’s Hall. The owners take pride in their gastronomy, a menu of traditional French and Slavic cuisine which can be accompanied by wine from the château’s cellar if you choose. Guided excursions, wine-tasting, flea-market tours and restaurant bookings (from authentic bistros to Michelin starred establishments) can also be arranged.       

Make the most of the vast parkland as you admire the flower-filled courtyard and stroll across to the heated swimming pool open from early May to the end of August. Surrounded by magnolia trees, an apple orchard and kitchen garden, the salt-water swimming pool also has its own pool house and changing room. Come across ancient trees, pathways, hedging and large lawns across the four hectares of gated grounds.

Stock up on delicious delights at the traditional weekly market in nearby Château-du-Loir and enjoy beautiful walks by the smaller Loir River with ancient mills near Vaas as well as summer swimming, picnics and other seasonal activities at picturesque Lac des Varennes only 10 minutes away by car. Further afield along the Loir river, Lavardin is classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.

Spend days visiting the likes of Château de Villandry and Château Royal d'Amboise, both within an hour, and head to the gorgeous city of Tours with its medieval architecture, grand squares and wonderful riverside setting on the Loire. Heading north instead, explore handsome Le Mans by the banks of the Sarthe and learn all about one of the most famous annual motorsport endurance events in the world before driving back to your very own French residence surrounded by charm and history.