Home to many a spectacular château, castle and boutique hotel, France offers a wealth of grand residences to those wanting a much-needed escape. And, for those looking to experience the country’s world-renowned culture and unrivalled landscapes, there’s no better way to indulge than from the confines of its spectacular abodes.
And, let’s be honest, we’ve all dreamt of being a king or queen at some time in our lives, so what better way to live out these fairytale fantasies than in one of the most magical places on earth?
In light of France dropping all of its COVID-19 travel restrictions this month, what better time to book your château escape than now?
Cycling for Softies has shared their favorite châteaux for anyone wanting to add a touch of luxury to their next European getaway. The company is an expert in handpicking the best bespoke and luxury stays throughout the wine regions of France, Italy, and the UK.
Domaine de La Tortinière – Loire Valley
The boutique châteaux hotel, Domaine de La Tortinière, lies in the heart of the Loire Valley. An area famed worldwide for its grand châteaux, it has attracted some famous names through its door, including none other than Audrey hepburn, the iconic ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ actress.
And it’s hard not to feel like a Hollywood Star during a stay at this property, which oozes French style, class, and elegance in its phenomenal architecture, timeless decor, and antique furnishings.
15 hectares of land surround the château, known as Tortinière Park, which guests can stroll through at their leisure and bear witness to the beautiful natural surroundings. If
visiting from August to December, guests can experience the forest floor carpeted with pink and white wild cyclamens, adding to the sheer beauty of this romantic location.
Of course, the 4th property features other luxurious and modern-day touches, including a gourmet restaurant, outdoor pool, and spa.
Château des Fines Roches – Côtes du Rhônes
The world-renowned wine-growing appellation, the Côtes du Rhônes, nestled in the hillside of Southern France, offers some of the finest landscapes in the country. Dappled with rows of vines bordering the Rhone River, charming riverside towns, and, importantly, its sensational châteaux.
Front and centre in the prestigious vineyards of Châteaneu-du-Pape, the epitome of a Southern France wine village, you’ll find Château des Fines Roches.
The 4-star château was constructed in the late 19th century and looks like it has leapt off the pages of a storybook. Its turreted sandstone construction, which was originally inhabited by the Marquis de Baroncelli and has since been frequented by many a poet, overlooks 3,000 hectares of rolling vines stretching out onto the Provençal horizon.
So, why not take the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of greatness for yourself and live your French countryside fantasy? The charming château features its own outdoor pool, Provençal gourmet restaurant, and spa.
Château de Rochecotte – Loire Valley
Nestled beneath the hillside and built from gleaming Tuffeau stone, the Château de Rochecotte is a sophisticated boutique hotel in the heart of the Loire Valley.
Enrobed in verdant forestry, this château is the perfect place to escape everyday life and forget about your daily worries and woes. Amongst the Bourgueil vineyards, you can rest assured that your well-being is in good hands at this 4-star property.
Picture waking up to the pure, crisp air of the Touraine countryside and taking a morning dip in the heated swimming pool on the Italian terrace overlooking the Loire Valley below. Then, let all of your stress melt away by discovering a massage in the onsite Salon Boni to truly pamper yourself. Finish your day with a delectable delicacy in any of the two restaurants at the château, leaving you spoilt for choice as to which of the Loire Valley’s finest creations you’ll want to sample first!
Beautifully decorated in the ornate French style, with Italian and period furniture throughout, guests can truly relax in this château’s luxury comfort during their stay.
Château de Candes – Loire Valley
Located on the high point of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Candes-Saint-Martin, you’ll find the picturesque Château de Candes. With sublime panoramic views of two of South France’s major rivers, the Loire and the Vienne, meeting, the château offers the perfect place for guests to indulge in a balance of history, nature, and culture.
Extending outwards over 4 hectares is the castle park, which has been host to over 40 monumental works of street art since 2019. The estate itself has been host to numerous creative events and exhibitions in its time, making the château even more attractive to art lovers and aficionados.
Alongside its artistic repertoire, the château manages to engage its guests in every remaining sense. With wine tastings on offer at the estate, a beautiful terrace garden with scents of blooming flowers at the front of the château’s facades, as well as a pool and spa, you can indulge every one of your senses during a stay here.
Château de Verrières – Loire Valley
The height of 5-star luxury in the heart of the historic Saumur city, Château de Verrières is a château stay that will make you feel right at home. Maintaining its period features and authentic furnishings, the property transports guests back to the elegance of the 1800s with its ‘Belle Epoque’ charm. The château maintains a private and residential feel, which was its original character, making guests truly feel like they’re at home away from home.
Its prime location in the centre of the medieval Saumur City gives the perfect base for exploring the beauty and charm of the Loire Valley. Nicknamed ‘The Pearl of Anjou’, the town’s scenic riverside location in the heart of the Anjou vineyards offers ample opportunity to learn about the history, art, and culture of this spectacular gem in the Loire.
After an evening of exploration, head back to the château to discover the relaxation area, complete with a dry sauna, hot tub, and spa for a selection of treatments and massages.
For more information, please visit > https://www.cycling-for-softies.co.uk/cycling-holidays/chateaux-escapes
