Chateau De L'Histoire
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Overview
Château De L’Histoire is a 19th-Century jewel which sits majestically on 100 acres of park, farm and woodland. This unique setting, at the end of a one-kilometre driveway, offers a very private setting in the rural Midi-Pyrénées, but is just five minutes from the UNESCO classified ancient village of St. Lizier, one of France’s Plus Beaux Villages.
The château has been recently renovated and offers light and spacious rooms with an impressive and dramatic blend of old and new. Its rich, historic past greets guests in many original details; high ceilings with intricate wooden details, ornate cornices, tall mosaic windows, impressive fireplaces and a grand staircase to take your breath away. They sit alongside modern bathrooms, artwork and the large swimming pool and sleek wooden decking with a beautiful shaded pergola (built in 2024 summer). Artwork in the château is made up of constantly changing exhibitions by artists who are privileged to showcase their work in such a sumptuous setting.
Despite this idyllic, rural location, both the historic and modern quarters of the village are just a 5-minute drive away, so everything is within easy reach including its highlights, such as its stunning cathedral with cloisters, octagonal tower and 11th-Century frescoes. There is also a renowned restaurant with a panoramic terrace overlooking the village and across to the Pyrénées mountains.
The village is within the Natural Regional park of the Ariège Pyrénées, so outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, and horse-riding are in abundance amongst its lakes, mountains and forests. Hiking is a great way to discover this beautiful National Park and in the spring the waterfall at Cascade d’Ars is a highlight. The area is rich with Roman churches to visit and medieval villages to explore, such as La Bastide-de-Serou and Le Mas-d'Azil.
During winter months skiing and snow-boarding are possible just half-an-hour from Château De L’Histoire at the nearby resort of Guzet.
Château De L’Histoire is the perfect retreat and setting for sumptuous and relaxing holidays in this beautifully unique part of southern France.
What you should know…
- The ancient part of the local village is a 30-minute walk (uphill), while its modern quarter (with supermarkets etc) is a 20-minute walk away.
- The on site management team live discretely in the coach house on the estate.
- One of the downstairs sitting rooms can be converted to a bedroom for guests who require a ground floor bedroom (there is also a ground floor shower room).
- The airfield adjacent to the property offers gliding and flying lessons too - make sure you book ahead.
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
- It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
- Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Property Features
Chateau Interior
Ground Floor
- Main entrance and hall
- Pantry
- Kitchen
- Butlers room
- Side entrance hall
- Dining room
- Winter lounge (stained glass doors leading to terrace)
- Summer lounge (access to terrace)
- TV lounge (can be converted into a bedroom for guests with limited mobility)
- Bathroom with wash basin, walk in shower
- Guest WC
First Floor (accessed via main spiral staircase)
- Bedroom 1 (Master bedroom) with king size bed, en suite bathroom with bath and walk in shower, large wardrobe, balcony and sun loungers
- Bedroom 2 with king size bed, small en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, walk in wardrobe (can be converted into a family room)
- Bedroom 3 with king size bed, very large wardrobe, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating
- Bedroom 4 with king size bed, very large wardrobe, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating
- Bedroom 5 with double bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating, drawers and hanging space
- Bedroom 6 with king size bed, en-suite wet room in the tower.
(can be converted into a very spacious family room)
Second Floor (accessed via second spiral staircase from ground floor)
- Bedroom 7 with double bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating, drawers and hanging space
- Bedroom 8 with double bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating, drawers and hanging space
- Bedroom 9 with double bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating, drawers and wardrobe
- Bedroom 10 with double bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating, drawers and wardrobe
- Bedroom 11 with king size bed, en-suite bathroom with walk in shower,large wardrobe (can be converted into a family room)
- Bedroom 12 with king size bed, small en-suite bathroom with bath and shower, walk in wardrobe (can be converted into a family room)
Basement closed to guests.
Self-contained Attic Apartment
- Kitchen
- Bedroom 13 with double bed
- Bedroom 14 with double bed and hanging rail
- Bathroom with walk in shower and underfloor heating
- Open plan living area with with 2 very comfortable sofa beds
The apartment is completely self-contained and offers independence from other chateau guests if required.
Outside Grounds
- Terrace
- Private swimming pool (size: 16mx8m/depth: 1.5m-1.7m/shape: rectangular) with sensor system, open approximately May to October - parental supervision is recommended at all times.
- Wooden decking area with shaded pergola
- 100 acres of park, farm and woodland
- Outdoor dining area
- Barbecue
- Parking space
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating throughout
- Underfloor heating in all bathrooms
- 2 working fireplaces (ground floor)
- 2 decorative fireplaces
- Fans available on request
- Satellite TV (75'')
- Microwave
- Hob
- Oven
- Fridge/freezer
- Coffee machine
- DVD player
- I-pod docking station
- Hairdryers
- Washing machine
- Iron and ironing boards
- Dishwasher
- Pilates studio
- Table tennis
- Table football
- Bikes
- Toys
- Pool inflatables
- Children's books and DVDs
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau De L'HistoireChâteau De L'Histoire is set in 100 acres of parkland, farm and woodland in the Ariège department of southern France in the Ariège Pyrénées. The château is just a 5-minute drive (or 30-minute uphill walk) to Saint-Lizier, one of France’s official ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ with monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
By the banks of the Salat, Saint-Lizier is such a wonderful village to discover with its historic charm and rich heritage. Explore its narrow flower-filled lanes with medieval houses, little craft shops and a shady café terrace on the main square. The 17th century Palais des Evêques is a great highlight of the village, as is Cathédrale Saint-Lizier with its incredible frescoes. On the outskirts of the village you will find the modern area with supermarkets for food shopping as well as a local restaurant.
There are further amenities in the small riverside town of Saint-Girons (4.5km) including several restaurants, shops, a much-loved micro-brewery and an atmospheric Saturday morning market by the banks of the river selling lots of local products and crafts. In the other direction along the river is the spa town of Salies-du-Salat (23km) with thermal baths dating back to the 19th century.
Set within the Natural Regional Park of the Ariège Pyrénées, outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, kayaking (including private lessons) and horse-riding are in abundance amongst its lakes, mountains and forests. Hiking is a great way to discover this spectacular National Park and in the spring the waterfall at Cascade d’Ars (40km) is a highlight. You can even take amazing discovery flights, private lessons and taster gliding sessions at the aerodrome centre just a couple of minutes away (adjacent to the property). Winter skiing is possible just half-an-hour away at the nearby resort of Guzet.
Heading south, Lac de Bethmale (28km) is especially magnificent with its emerald coloured water and glorious scenery each season, loved by keen walkers, fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake is an ideal spot for waterside picnics in spectacular surroundings.
Foix (46km) is another brilliant day out, a small and beautiful medieval city with a rich heritage at the crossroads of the Arget and Ariège rivers. The views from the top of the towers at Château de Foix are stunning and there is a lovely medieval garden with plants and herbs that were widely used in medieval times. The heart of the old town is a joy to explore and there is a fantastic market on a Friday morning.
Meanwhile, come across Roman churches and idyllic villages to explore including La Bastide-de-Sérou (29km) and Le Mas-d'Azil (27km).
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport
(103km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Carcassonne Airport
(119km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Saint-Lizier
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Just outside Saint-Lizier/Saint-Girons
(2km/4.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Aldi, Saint-Lizier
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Saint-Girons
(4.5km) |
||
| Nearest Piste |
Guzet
(44km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Club de L'Ariège
(34km) |
||
Region
A relatively new addition to France, the Midi-Pyrénées was created to surround the cultural capital of Toulouse in the late 1970s. You might think that its relative youth would mean the Midi-Pyrénées is short on character or identity, but remember, this is France we’re talking about – the whole country is steeped in history and tradition. Encompassing parts of Gascony, Languedoc, the Gers and several others, you’ll get a varied slice of the whole French experience here, not least if you stay at one of our beautiful chateaux in the Midi-Pyrénées! And if you want to discover the best of what the region has to offer, our Midi-Pyrénées travel guide is here to show you where to go, what to eat and how you can make the best of your break with some amazing activities.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesBe enchanted by the nearby village of Saint-Lizier, one of the country’s most beautiful villages and home to the impressive 17th century Palais des Evêques. Just outside the village is Au Pays des Traces, a specialist theme park open in July and August with several activities for children.
Across the vast Natural Regional Park of the Ariège Pyrénées there are marked hiking trails, horse-riding opportunities, cycling routes, canoeing/kayaking and a range of other outdoor adventures. For a gentle day out, enjoy nature walks, lakeside picnics and even seasonal fishing (there’s an area just for children) at the glorious Lac de Bethmale around half an hour away.
Just over an hour by car, Parc de la Préhistoire (64km) is near Tarascon-sur-Ariège, a fine day out for all ages with interactive exhibitions and outdoor activities. Perhaps combine with a visit to Grotte de Lombrives (67km), the largest cave in Europe and one of the most visited sites in the region – good shoes are needed!
Le Village Gaulois (40km), a recreation of a Gaulois village with lots of summer immersive activities, is another great trip for young historians. Animal lovers may prefer La Ferme des Reptiles (27km), a small but charming reptile farm, and spend time following the woodland trail at Xploria (30km) passing life-size figures of extinct mammals.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Baby bath
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Restaurant
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Children's videos/DVDs
- Children's books
- Pool inflatables
- Bikes
- Bicycles Provided
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- Fridge Stocking/Shopping Service Available
- Transfers and Tours Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
- Fridge Stocking/Shopping Service Available
- Transfers and Tours 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:
- Catering
- Extra cleaning
- Fridge stocking/shopping service
- Baby-sitting
- Travel services
- Car hire
- Transfers
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
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a hig...
Read moreEvent information
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 | £2,000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 12.00 p.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | £2,000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 3.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 12.00 p.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | No, charges apply from November to March, payable locally based on consumption. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, including pool towels. |
| Minimum stay | 2 nights. |
| Pets welcome? | No. |
| Smoking Allowed? | In designated areas only. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. 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. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to October. 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. |
| 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. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 28 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 5th 2024 - Jan 1st 2025 | £4,300 | £6,450 | £8,600 | £10,750 | £15,050 |
| Jan 1st 2025 - May 9th 2026 | £4,300 | £6,450 | £8,600 | £10,750 | £15,050 |
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?
2 Years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
As we came up the long winding wooded drive I was l...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
2 Years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
As we came up the long winding wooded drive I was literally blown away by the majesty of the chateau, completely unexpected (photographs never seem to do it real justice) and absolutely beautiful. I had to stay in the car to gather myself before we met the estate agent!
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The chateau stayed in the same family for two centuries, until we purchased it. The Delbreil clan were responsible for bringing hydro-electric power to the region and are well known amongst locals. Their last housekeeper, a delightful lady named Zinda, who was in service to the family from the age of 14, still lives locally and will happily share her tales of life at the chateau.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Not yet!
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do?
Visit the Saturday market at nearby St Girons. It is a vibrant and friendly occasion. It regularly draws large crowds from near and far, packed full of producers selling organic vegetables and cheeses and the wonderful aroma of freshly cooked dishes. It is a pleasure just to take a seat at one of the bars or cafes, enjoy a coffee, beer or Pernod and watch the world go by!
Really eat?
Garbure is a traditional soup of the Ariege, our cook makes her delicious version for guests who would like to try some typical cuisine, and likewise her delicious apple croustade always gets a fantastic reception. Finally there is a plethora of local cheeses and charcuterie on offer locally which are not to be missed!
Really see?
The old village of St Lizier is home to the chateau and a UNESCO world heritage site. Meandering around the old narrow streets is a delight in itself but the beautifully preserved ancient apothecaries, Bishops Palace and Cathedral are all must sees! There is a lovely café in the square and a fine dining restaurant Le Carre de L’Ange from where you can enjoy truly stunning views of the Pyrenean chain.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area? We have a wonderful pilates instructor and masseuse with a fully equipped studio on the edge of the estate. To ensure that your stay is as relaxing as possible you could treat yourself and your guests to a bespoke pilates and a massage session – without having to leave the property!
Reviews
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Perfect space
We stayed at the chateau for our company offsite and the space was perfect. The facilities were great - everyone made the most of the pool to cool down in hot weather, and also enjoyed the table tennis and board games provided. We had plenty of room to spread out for our team presentations away from the dining area and all the bedrooms were comfortable and spacious. The location is ideal for a short trip as it’s not too far from Toulouse airport.
There’s also plenty to do outside of the chateau, and the owner was great in ensuring everything ran smoothly. I really appreciated her help with arranging all the transfers, catering and activities. I would definitely recommend for any kind of group trip/ holiday! -
Blown away by the beauty of the place
We had the most amazing time at the chateau. We were blown away by the beauty of the place and the hospitality of the owner and her team.
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Beautiful
We had an amazing time here. The castle is beautiful, and the owner was a great host. Would definitely recommend.
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The most amazing time
Absolutely everything we were hoping it would be and more. The chateau is the perfect place to bring people together from around the world and the owner and team have been so helpful and ensured we all had the most amazing time.
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Wonderful chateau
Fantastic family and friends holiday in a wonderful chateau. Many happy memories have been made and lots of fun had! Very sad to be going home.
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The perfect place
Wonderful family reunions with families from Canada, USA and Scotland. Thank you for creating the perfect place for us to make memories!
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Incredible!
We hosted a corporate event with attendees from London, Bermuda and the US for a 3 day ‘French Retreat’. The owner and staff were incredibly helpful in organising everything we needed; from selecting local caterers to taxi companies, the team were always on hand to help make the event a success.
We are already looking to arrange the event for next year following the brilliant feedback from company staff and clients alike. -
Will repeat the experience
We hosted a corporate event with attendees from London, Bermuda and the US for a 3 day ‘French Retreat’. The owner and the team were incredibly helpful in organising everything we needed; from selecting local caterers to taxi companies, the team were always on hand to help make the event a success. We are already looking to arrange the event for next year following the brilliant feedback from company staff and clients alike.
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Magical time. Amazing!
What a wonderful location to enjoy our Father’s 95th birthday celebration. We had a truly magical time with 4 generations enjoying the warmth and hospitality of this marvellous home. Thank you so much to the owner and her team for being so helpful at all times. Amazing!
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I highly recommend it!
If you are considering a stay at the Chateau de L'Histoire, I highly recommend it!
I spent a week there in summer with my family of 27 people ranging in age from 8 to 80 years old. The little ones loved discovering the turrets and stairwells, the huge pool and table tennis, while the adults loved the setting, the huge trees, the comfort of the bedrooms and the fact that Saint-Lizier is a stunning little unspoilt gem just 20 minutes away on foot along a quiet road bordered by flowers and pastures.
The owner was on site to answer all our queries and smooth out any problems (there weren’t any). She is both relaxed, efficient and a delight! Her tips and suggestions were spot on. The taxi driver from Saint-Giron was a star, relaying the 27 of us to restaurants and airport with a cheery smile at all hours of the night and early mornings. We also loved the catering crew headed by Anders who provided the breakfasts – fresh bread and croissants from the bakery in the huge checkered floor kitchen with it’s long wooden table and benches – he also catered for some of our dinners. These were copious, delicious with fresh vegetables and herbs from his garden. Again, laid back, friendly and an excellent cook. Do get Anders to do the cooking if there are a lot of you. You won’t regret it.
The bedrooms are big and airy, full of light and the bathrooms modern and efficient. The living areas are huge, but we were mostly outside, around the pool and had all our dinners at a long table by the pool. The chateau has been recently renovated (I loved the tiny bathroom in the turret with a huge window onto the garden) the furnishings are comfortable and we didn’t have to worry about the kids dirtying or spoiling the upholstery. All practical and functional.
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Will never forget
Where to begin? Thanks God we found this place! We didn’t want to leave so will have to come back. Thank you so much for everything. We’ve had the most memorable week-end and recommend the chateau to anyone with a pulse. What a beautiful place, we will never forget this experience.
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Perfect
Our stay was wonderful from start to finish. The owner was so responsive and thoughtful. It was all perfect and exceeded our expectations.
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Fantastic!
Stayed in the summer and enjoyed comfortable rooms, cool pool, sunshine, great local food and helpful owners. Winter too was fab with real fires and a short drive to the ski slopes. Can't wait for my next visit.
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Un castillo precioso
Hemos pasado el fin de año, con nuestros amigos, en el Chateau de l'Histoire y ha sido inolvidable. Es un castillo precioso con un jardín enorme. Nuestros hijos casi se vuelven locos cuando al final del camino vieron aparecer la impactante fachada del castillo. Donna, la dueña, es encantadora y muy servicial. Nos ha tratado como si fuésemos de su familia, preocupándose por nosotros en cada momento. Los niños nunca olvidarán cuando Donna nos hizo un tour para enseñarnos el castillo por dentro. Corrían por todas partes, emocionados eligiendo su habitación. El día 31/12/17, Donna nos proporcionó una cocinera estupenda, que nos preparó Garbure para comer y estaba delicioso. Se nos ha hecho corta la estancia, así que tendremos que volver.
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I cannot wait to come back!
This is a beautiful part of France and Chateau De l'Histoire is in a stunning location. It is secluded with incredible views, but still easily accessible from Toulouse. The rooms are luxurious and comfortable and staying in such a historic and impressive chateau is a unique experience. Staying here was a complete treat and I cannot wait to come back!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
