Département: Haute-Vienne (87) 

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Little is left of the original château after having been set afire in 1356 by the army of Prince Edward of Wales (the Black Prince).  It was subsequently rebuilt in the fifteenth century by Jacques des Monstiers following the Hundred Years War, forming what today is considered the "vieux château".  The central part of the present structure is Italian Renaissance, the result of reconstruction by Jean des Monstiers, the Bishop of Bayonne, who also had a notable diplomatic career.   The architect for this portion of the château was Italian Sebastian Serlio.  You will no doubt be impressed by the main entrance door with its four Ionic columns and inlaid marble, as well as Serlio's incredible fireplace found in the first floor living room -- the lower part of which is a naïve fresco depicting life at Le Fraisse in the sixteenth century. 

The owners conduct tours of the estate for groups,  but those who enjoy this wonderful château the most are the guests who stay in one of the delightful rooms!  As you can see from the photo above, a grand driveway brings you to the château's very appealing and welcoming entry.  Once you are inside, you will find that this warmth and appeal is not diminished.  Instead, you will discover the interior is sensitively and tastefully appointed with magnificent antique furnishings, exquisite art work and restful colors.  Your room will be a place of comfort and solitude after you have been out during the day touring the region of the Haut-Vienne. 

Time on the property can be spent on the tennis courts or enjoying a challenging game of French billards in the billiard room.  The château's proprietors specialize in weddings.  The completely renovated hall has a bandstand, dance floor and ample room for a sit down dinner reception.  A garden cocktail reception can also be held on the lawns of this beautiful château.  Whatever you chose to do, you will agree that Château du Fraisse provides a rewarding journey back into history while it serves today's guests in twenty-first century comfort.  We can personally assure you that both Comte and Comtesse des Monstiers Mérinville will captivate you with their friendliness, warmth and charm as they do everything possible to make your stay just perfect!

Open all year except between December 15 and January 15.
On the grounds:  tennis, French billiards and 1500 acres of meadows and woodlands.  Tours of the estate between April 15 and November 1 from 2 PM to 6 PM for groups of ten or more persons by prior arrangement. Large, new independent building for weddings, receptions, conferences. 
Vicinity:  swimming pool; fishing in lake or river, Lake St-Paradoux; Forêt de Brigueuil; the River Vienne; Monts de Blond; drama festival at Bellac in late June and early July; the church at Le Dorat; Oradour-sur-Glane memorial village; Limoges: porcelain factories, shops, Musée Municipal, Musée Adrien Dubouché, and St Stephen's Cathedral.

From Paris:  A10 south to Poitiers, followed by the N147 from Poitiers to just before Bellac, then right onto the D951 direction Mézieres.  In Mézieres take the D4 direction Nouic, proceed only 2.5 kilometers and look for signs -- Château du Fraisse will be on the right.

Airport:  Limoges 40 kilometers;  Poitiers 80 kilometers.
Railway Station:  Bellac 15 kilometers;  St-Junien 32 kilometers. 

Car Rental in Limoges (click here)

Michelin Map to Château