• special events offered at or near our member properties 
• discount offers from our members 
• summaries of châteaux recently added to our site 
• preview of properties that will be Coming Soon 
• unsolicited reviews from former château guests 
• access to our past (free!) newsletters 
• and more!

•  6  issues a year with beautiful color photos
• visits to landmarks and a special City  or Village View in each regular issue
• active links to tourism & regional web sites 
• in-depth visits to one or two of our member properties in each issue
• what there is to do and see where the châteaus are located
• quizzes to test your knowledge of France
• easy and delicious recipes 
• travel tips and advice, and more! 

• Plus, frequent Special Editions to showcase our newest member properties 

Domaine des Faures, on an organic and environmentally-friendly farm,
is a beautifully renovated, ancient residence near Monpazier. 
Close to Bergerac and Bordeaux, it is ideal for a short break.

Book a 4-night stay between Monday and Friday and pay for 3 nights!
or
Make a reservation for 3 nights between Friday and Monday and enjoy a free meal Sunday evening!

The warm and welcoming owners will make your stay in their lovely chambres d'hôtes exceptional.
Enjoy the sparkling new swimming pool, visit the area's charming bastide villages, 
or explore the rich history of towns and castles along the River Dordogne. 

Make Domaine des Faures your next destination in France.  Please say you found them on au Château!
 

Wine Spectator magazine has listed several of our presitigious member properties in their Top Scores 2007 List.
Among those are the following (their rating on a scale of 100 points is in brackets following the name of the wine/champagne):

Situated in the adjoining Manor House, the self-catering apartments offer a wonderful
independent stay with fully-equipped kitchens, private terrace and walled garden. 
Guests can always come to the Chateau for breakfast, drinks and dinner. 
Bottle of wine offered. All beds are made up and 2 towels per person. 
Minimum stay 5 nights

La Marquise apartment for 2 to 3 persons: large studio apartment with large separate dining kitchen and bathroom with bath/shower and private terrace 140 to 150 euros per night for double occupancy, extra person 10 euros per night. End cleaning 35 euros. 

Le Chevalier apartment for 2 to 5 persons: large two-room apartment with large separate bedroom with large double bed and a single bed and living/dining room with 2 single beds and open kitchen. Bathroom with bath/shower and private terrace.  160 to 170 euros per night for double occupancy, extra person 10 euros per night. End cleaning 35 euros.

Le Maréchal apartment for 6 to 8 persons: large three-bedroom apartment with large living/dining room and separate equipped kitchen. Three bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and private terrace 190 to 200 euros per night for 6 persons occupancy, extra person 10 euros per night. End cleaning 50 euros.

Please click here to visit them on our site today !

L'A Propos, in the ancient Roman city of Orange, will delight you!  Beautiful grounds and charming rooms in the heart of this fascinating city make L'A Propos the perfect bed and breakfast getaway for touring the western Vaucluse of France.  It is a just-renovated, convenient home base for exploring the region to see such attractions as the Roman Arena, the nearby Pont du Gard, the Rhône River, Avignon, Carpentras and the vineyards that are abundant in this area.  Suites with private salons or a grand king size room with a private terrace are offered to guests at this elegant southern France manoir.  Visit it on our pages today!

Château du Grand-Lucé in the Sarthe near Le Mans is the perfect rental property for large gatherings of friends and family - especially automobile racing enthusiasts as it is very near Le Mans.   This beautiful château has just undergone extensive renovations by its new owners, and has opened its doors to you and other guests!  Set on an exquisite estate, and just photographed for an upcoming issue of Architectural Digest, you will want to visit it on this site very soon to see this formidable and luxurous château for yourself.
 
 

Château de Prauthoy, a magnificent bed and breakfast in the Haute-Marne convenient to Burgundy, Champagne and Paris, is now a member of the au Château family.  This historic and grand residence has only been open to guests for a year, and has been completely renovated to provide the utmost in comfort and convenience while exuding luxury and French château life.  Lovely en suite bedrooms, amazing gardens, a small pond, a swimming pool, and a grotto leading to the tasting room all add to the charm of this fine chambres d'hôtes. Please visit its pages on our site today!

Château Sallandrouze in the marvelous Limousin offers guests a banquet hall, comfortable salons, a billiards room, a restaurant and ten tastefully appointed guest suites.  Enjoy wine from the château's cellars ~ a fine collection of both French and South African appellations is offered. This historic château is near Aubusson is elegantly decorated and lavishly appointed for your stay in France.  Please visit it on our site when planning your next visit to France.

Manoir de Berthouville is our newest member in beautiful Normandy.  This warm and inviting former hunting lodge dating back to the 17th century is available for rent for small gatherings of family or friends  Comfortably sleeping 6 to 8 people, this beautiful manor house is owned and elegantly decorated by Boston interior designer Charles Spada.  Do visit it on our web site today to see how unique and lovely it is.  And, keep in mind that it is located near the historic city of Rouen and very convenient to Paris! 

Château du Barthas is an amazing château in the Gers of Gascony ~ Three Musketeers country!  This Medieval château is available for rent for family special events or gatherings of friends.  There are seven bedrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen, an historic dining room, comfortable salons, and even a reception room spacious enough to have a dinner for 60!  You won't want to miss seeing this historic fifteenth century castle on our web site today.  Just click on the château name above to see all the photos and read more about it!

Château de Pomiro is one of the most charming bed and breakfasts, is located in the Midi-Pyrénées département of Gers and has so much to offer its guests.  From lovely guest rooms to fine cuisine to exclusive spa treatments, everything a vacationer could want to enjoy rest and relaxation can be found here!  And, this is Armagnac country, so plan on visiting a distillery or go on wine tastings at nearby vineyards.  The friendly owners also welcome brides and grooms to have their weddings at Château de Pomiro!  It will be time well spent to visit this property on our web pages.

Château Robert, a rental château in the lovely Landes département of Aquitaine has joined au Château.  This ten-bedroom château with a swimming pool is perfect for family getaways or group holidays.  Its elegant rooms and tasteful décor will make any guest appreciate château life at its best.  Cooking courses, wine tastings, vineyard visits and other activities are available, and a live-in staff, including chefs to prepare many of the meals, makes a stay here a true luxury experience.  Visit their pages soon on this web site!

Château d' Hattonchâtel, located in the beautiful region of Lorraine, has joined au Château.  This stunning Gothic castle is available for rent, and is the perfect location for visits to WWI battlefields, the city of Verdun, Art Nouveau Nancy, historic Metz, the delights of the Lorraine countryside and provides the deal venue for weddings, seminars and celebrations!  See it today on this web  site!

Château St-Philippe in the Savoie is now on our site and awaiting guests, especially those who would like to celebrate a grand family occasion or hold their wedding ceremony at this beautiful and dramatic château.  You can rent this property by the night ~ every room is elegant and luxurious.  The château has been carefully renovated and tastefully decorated.  Near the Alpine ski resorts for a winter vacation and convenient to the foothills filled with flowers for summer hiking, the château is ideally located in a wonderful region of France.   Fresh mountain air and beautiful scenery await you! 

Domaine de Moulin Mer, in an incredible microclimate of Brittany's Finistère départment, has just joined our site.  This completely enchanting manor house offers spacious, beautifully-appointed guest rooms for its guests.  Absolutely immaculate, the owners boast of their hygienically clean, dust-mite free bedding ~ something those with allergies will greatly appreciate, as will the rest of us!  Copious breakfasts, gorgeous grounds filled with palm trees, and convenience to the best Brittany has to offer add to the charm of this wonderful chambres d'hôtes. Do visit it on our site soon to see this marvelous place for yourself!

We will soon add more exciting properties to au Château, expanding your ability to find the perfect luxury retreat almost anywhere in France with just one visit to our web site!  Please be sure to check back often to see what's new!

La Terrasse de Lautrec is a truly enchanting bed and breakfast in an amazing location in the Tarn.  Like a scene from a classic French film, this lovely village house faces the Place du Monument in the delightful medieval hilltop village of Lautrec.  Step through the door to find yourself in a marvelous home, filled with artwork and fine furnishings, and discover a French garden (by none other than Le Nôtre) behind the manoir from which there are breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.  Built on the ramparts of the medieval town, La Terrasse is a place for dreaming, solace, exploration, and rejuvenation.  You will find you are in the real France when you are a guest at this incredible manoir. 

Guest Review:  Thank you for your help with our booking at La Terrasse.  My traveling companion and I so enjoyed our stay.  Dominque was the quintessential hostess, and her home and gardens are superb.  We cannot have imagined a better place to spend our last night in France...Wishing you our best, and looking forward to booking accommodations through your service in the near future. -  G.W., New York City, June 2009.

Travel & Leisure Magazine has named Château de l'Isle-Marie one of the "50 Most Romantic Hideaways Worldwide", and we are very pleased that we can count it among our members.  You will see romance in its architecture and the luxurious guest rooms, find the perfect longer term accommodation in one of the three apartments in the Manoir de Bellefonds,  enjoy a great start to your day with breakfast in the château dining room, and perhaps partake of the 'table d'hôte' served in the splendid dining room of the original, sixteenth-century Château aux Epaules - now the farm house - which stands in the grounds of the estate.   This Normandy gem, a stone's throw from Ste-Mère-Eglise and Utah Beach,  is sure to please the most discriminating traveler. 

Château de Vaulogé  is pleased to offer its guests some exciting travel packages.  There is something for everyone ~ in addition to the wonderful bed and breakfast acommodations at this historic country château.

Château de la Vigne  is a spectacular medieval fortress château set in the bucolic green hills of the Cantal in the heart of France.   Lovely guest rooms await you, and fine dinners can be enjoyed with advance reservation. 

The peaceful location of Château de la Vigne provides the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing vacation, especially for those fond of the outdoors.  Hiking, climbing and walking are favorite pastimes in the region, while there are many fine towns and villages to visit and explore to enjoy their markets and enjoy their Romanesque churches and fine architecture. 

The Count and Countess offer regional cooking courses and classes in French Language Immersion for those who are interested.  See below for details about the courses offered.  Oh, and don't forget the miniature automobile museum displaying the Count's vast collection of model cars. the result of decades of collecting!

The dramatic and historic Château de la Vigne in the Cantal département of the Auvergne is offering cooking classes (the first scheduled May 5 - 9, 2008) in a guest package and taught by Countess Anne de la Tour.  It includes four nights' stay, breakfast each morning, three days of cooking classes with a wide variety of menus, a visit to a farm where cheese is produced, and one lunch in a nearby gastronomic restaurant.  The cooking classes will focus on regional cuisine including veal and pork dishes.  For those who prefer fish, salmon or trout will be prepared.

Sample menu to prepare in a class and enjoy at dinner:

     Vegetable Soup with Cream
     Croustade de Veau de Salers aux Champignons or 
     Croustade de Saumon aux Asperges et Crème
     Broccoli with Nutmeg or other seasonal vegetables
     Auvergne Cheese Board
     Le Baba au Rhum d'Ally (the Countess' specialty)
     Wine and coffee

For vegetarians the menu can be adjusted to substitute Le Pâté de Legumes and local river trout, as well as cheese and pancake with season fruits.  Many other menus are possible and potential students should specify their interests when making reservations.

The itinerary will include a welcome drink and dinner the evening of the first day, followed by three days that begin with breakfast, free time and cooking classes starting at 4:30 up to dinner.  One dinner will be candlelit in the 18th century dining room. The fifth day will include brunch before departure.

The total package (whether Cooking Course or French Language Immersion) without ground transportation is 1310 Euros per person with a minimum of 3 people; for 4 people or more the price is 1100 Euros per person.  The maximum number of students is dependent upon accommodations provided.  Please contact us at info@au-chateau.com for dates and details!

This exceptional property has been in the same family for many centuries, and the current proprietors are the Count and Countess de Vanssay, eager to welcome guests to their historic and beautiful home.  They are offering the following packages to encourage you to visit.  There is literally something for everyone!

Step back in time and arrive in style at Château de La Barre.  Whether you arrive at Tours Loire Valley Airport or at the Tours Railway Station from Paris via fast speed TGV train (1 hour 10 minutes), you will be picked up at the  airport or station and given the keys to drive your authentic, totally-restored 1940s vintage Citroën! 

Upon your arrival at Château de La Barre, 65 picturesque kilometers later, a warm welcome with chilled Champagne awaits you in an elegant ome filled with antiques, portraits and a rich past which Guy and Marnie look forward to sharing with you.  Spend two or three days with the 'French Touch', discovering the beautiful scenery, exceptional gardens, Romanesque churches and Renaissance manor housesbehind the wheel of this unique classic car. 

From € 895 to € 1085 including two nights in one of the elegant rooms of Château de La Barre, where flowers from the garden and port wine await you, a champagne welcome, a private visit, one candlelit dinner for two in the XVIIIth century grand dinning hall and English breakfasts daily, plus the rental of the incredible Citroën during your stay ~ pick up and drop off charges at station or airport and 250 km included. 
Or, stay for three days, € 1145 to € 1425.

To make your reservation, please send an email to info@chateaudelabarre.com

As the guest of the Comte and Comtesse de Vanssay in their elegant home near the Loire Valley, improve your French after breakfast with 2 hours tailor-made private lessons on 5 out of 6 mornings, during which a French literary masterpiece will be studied along with grammar and vocabulary points you wish to tackle.

After lunch, during the afternoon, relax while continuing to learn during private guided visits of the Loire Valley châteaux, local XIIth century churches, manor houses, the Old city of Le Mans, as well as some wine tasting. Return for drinks by the fireside of the salon rose and candlelit dinners in the XVIIIth century grande salle à manger. (French spoken during all meals too, enabling you to converse about current events, history, French culture and other subjects of your interest).

From 3750 euros per person (6450 for a couple) for 6 nights in one of the beautifully decorated rooms of Château de La Barre, all French lessons, meals, wine, complete tours, train (Le Mans or Vendome from Paris) or airport (Tours, Ryanair from Stansted) pick up included. 

This offer is limited to maximum three participants and available in November.  However, if you have an interest during other months of 2008, do inquire by sending an email to info@au-chateau.com and mentioning the château in the subject line.

Marnie de Vanssay is of  Anglo-American origin, so is fluent not only in French but also in English and especially able to meet the expectations of guests from 'the other side of the pond', making them feel truly at home while immersing them in French history, culture and language. 

Come to La Barre for a 3-day driving experience on the track at Le Mans! Reach full acceleration and performance during two laps on the legendary 24-hour Le Mans circuit after driving your dream car over 200 kilometers of scenic roads.  Or go directly to the track for any number of laps from 2 to 24 in a Ferrari 430 or 599 GTB, a Lamborghini Gallardo Superpleggera 530 or a Porsche 997 GT3.  Its a perfect weekend for the race driver in you!

The first day begins with a Champagne welcome and private visit of the château, followed by a cheese- and wine-tasting supper.  The second day takees you to the track, lunch en route, a professional driver accompanies you, a Champagne and diploma remittance, and end the day with a candlelight dinner in the prestigious 18th century dining room of the château.  The third day is breakfast prior to your departure.

Contact the château today to sign up for the experience of a lifetime!

Celebrate a special event in style ~ gather your family and/or friends together as exclusive guests at Château de La Barre for an experience of a lifetime. You will be welcomed by the Comte and Comtesse de Vanssay, in the elegance and warmth of their historic home. A tailor-made program can be worked out for your group, based on your individual interests.

Three day minimum rental for 10 to 18 people from 5500 euros. English breakfast included. Candlelit dinners or casual buffet suppers with wine tastings available upon prior reservation. Billiard, croquet, ping pong, Iinternet and cable TV on site, riding 6 miles, tennis 1 mile, golf 18 to 25 miles, cycling, hiking, and magnificient historic sites to visit all around.

Discover the wines of the Loire and Loir Valley. Spend 2 nights in one of the unabashedly elegant and comfortable rooms of this ancestral home, Château de La Barre, secluded amidst 100 acres of gardens, meadows and woods. Enjoy a candlelit dinner in the Grande Salle à Manger, during which you will discover three different wines perfectly suited to the meal and commented by the Comte de Vanssay. 

The following morning, after a hearty English breakfast, Guy will help you find the good addresses of local producers, and that evening reserve dinner for you in one of the local restaurants reknowned for its wine list.

From 495 to 685 euros (second dinner not included in price)

Visit three magnificient and very different gardens, all within 18 miles of Château de La Barre, and spend your nights in the perfect comfort of one of the elegant rooms of this ancestral home overlooking the gardens and the 100-acre park. A bottle of chilled Champagne and freshly cut flowers await you in your room upon arrival, as well as one candlelit dinner in the Grande Salle à Manger. 

From 690-970 euros, including 3 nights, English breakfast daily, 1 candlelit dinner for two and champagne welcome 

During your stay at Château de La Barre, why not fly over the magnificient countryside of the Loir and Loire Valleys in a Montgolfier balloon?  Depart from the terrace in front of the château, as the Marquis de Vanssay might have done some 230 years ago.  Prices per person for a 1hour 15min flight, including champagne upon arrival and flight certificate, range from 170-240 euros, depending on number of participants (2-12 people).

Guest Review:  During the month of July 2007, I had one of my best and very special vacations in France when I stayed for eight days in the Château de la Barre. After a leisurely breakfast, we had 2-hours intensive French lessons given by the Countess de Vanssay. The instruction was always most enjoyable, informative, interesting and, at the same time, one learned a lot about the history of France. Every meal in the very elegant dining room was delicious. My room was very comfortable with an idyllic view of the exquisite garden and surrounding grounds. With the warmth and the detailed attention that the Count and Countess give to their guests, we immediately felt at home in their beautiful chateau. I hope to return next year. -  F.G., England

Visit our web pages for Château de La Barre today to learn about this enchanting property.

The next time you are in the Calvados département of Normandy, do visit Bayeux for its tapestry, its cathedral and its charm!  And, stay at the stunning Hôtel de Tardif, a lovely guest house in the heart of town, steps away from both the Bayeux Tapestry and the cathedral. 

Monsieur Voidie, the young and enthusaistic proprietor, is currently organizing a private visit to Château de Fontaine-Henry for his guests.  The Comtesse, owner of the château, has agreed to open the château and personally welcome Hôtel Tardif guests for a tour during the winter months when other attractions are closed.  Visit their web site at http://www.chateau-de-fontaine-henry.com to see how spectacular it is.  Guests of Hôtel Tardif will find this tour, exclusively for them, extremely interesting.

Guest Review:  "We did enjoy our stay in Bayeux and especially meeting Anthony and his mom.  Thank you so much for recommindg Hôtel Tardif to us.  Our room was spacious, comfortable, peaceful and beautifully decorated!  The house is huge but with a warm feeling throughout.  Of course, its location could not have been better.  Our greatest surprise was finding Notre Dame Cathedral across the street!  We spent the morning touring her and will never forget her beauty and history within her....Anthony is a wonderful young mane.  He was so helpful to use with the train strike situation.  When we come again...we will make sure to follow your recommendations." Mrs KH, Texas USA

Château de Servigny is an elegant, historic Normandy château (the Surrender of Cherbourg was signed here) available for rent and convenient to the D-Day Landing Beaches, Bayeux and its famous tapestry, and the island abbey of Le Mont Saint-Michel.  Beautifully decorated guest rooms and finely appointed common areas are just the beginning ~ there is a fine dining room with massive fireplace and beamed ceiling and a fully-equipped modern kitchen for use of guests.  In the lovely landscaped park, a magnificent swimming pool is available for the château's occupants from May through September.  Don't miss your chance to make this fantastic property your 'own' for a gathering of family, friends or for that special occasion.

Château de Reignac is a beautiful, recently restored Loire Valley property at the edge of a magical little village, a short walk from a babbling brook and the River Indre.  With a history of famous residents and owners, including Général Marquis de La Fayette, friend of George Washington and hero of the American Revolution, the château offers modern amenities (including an elevator) along with its amazing history.  The largest private chapel in the Loire region can be found at Château Reignac ~ the setting for Masses as well as wedding ceremonies. The magnificent guest rooms furnished with great taste and style and are awaiting their next occupants.  The beautiful en suite bathrooms are icing on the cake! This lovely château, located only a few minutes southeast of Tours in the village of Reignac-sur-Indre, is the perfect base for exploring the great châteaux of the Loire, sampling the fine wines of the region and experiencing château life at its best.

Guest Review: We were thrilled to be at Château de Reignac from the moment we arrived.  Lovely appetziers and apéritifs preceded dinner and we had the opportunity to sit and chat with other guests.  Dinner was incredible and served promptly and with great attention to detail.  Our room was very special with windows facing two directions: the village and the park in front of the château.  Erick, the owner, is very pleasant and welcoming.  He's always around to answer questions and to tell us about the château.  Most impressive was the chapel with its sculpture of General Marquis de Lafayette who once owned the château.  We just loved everything about it and will return again at our first opportunity!.  Mr & Mrs KS, California USA

Château de Sombrun has returned to our web site.  This is the ideal property for horse lovers!  A pretty château with a swimming pool in the sun and more than a dozen horses for riding, it is located in one of the most interesting regions of southwest France  ~ Aquitaine's Hautes-Pyrénées, along the pilgrim route of St-Jacques de Compostelle and where the Béarn, Bigorre and Armagnac regions meet.  We enjoyed our stay there not very long ago, and we know you will find it as pleasant as we did.  We hope you will visit in on our pages soon!

Château Soussac is a wine producing estate in the Entre Deux Mers region of Aquitaine near St-Emilion.  This refined château has elegant guest rooms, a magnificent park with swimming pool and pool house, and offers guests tours of the vineyards and free wine tastings.  The château and its gardens are ideally suited to wedding celebrations or family gatherings, and its bed and breakfast accommodations are open year 'round.  Guests will enjoy spa treatments and massages as an added benefit of their stay. 

Gourmet Cooking Courses are also offered, taught by a professional chef.  Do visit Château Soussac on our site today and on our Wine Châteaux page.

Château de la Coutancière is a luxury bed & breakfast in the Pays de la Loire, quite near Saumur, Angers and the grand châteaux of the Loire.  This magnificent property offers ten bedrooms, eight of which are en suite, several sitting rooms and salons, a romantic dining room for candlelight dinners, bountiful breakfasts, beautiful grounds, a small river for carp fishing and a hot tub.  And, you can bring your horses ~ fine stables await them. And, for special occasions, the entire château can be booked for your group. 

Villa Iratz-Aldéa, between the Spanish border and Biarritz, is a classical Basque-style villa for rent by the week.  Unique and comfortably accommodating 10 to 15 people, it offers beautifully appointed guest rooms, a salon and formal dining room with large windows overlooking the park, and its location near the beach, the mountains and Spain make it an ideal base for exploring the region.   You won't believe the views!  Set in a golfer's and surfer's paradise, and with its own swimming pool and tennis court, Villa Iratz-Aldéa offers something for everyone.  Be sure to visit it on our pages today.

Castell Rose, is a beautiful granite and pink marble gem in Prades, département of the Pyrénées-Orientales. This unique chambres d'hôtes offers five spacious guest rooms, a swimming pool, tennis courts and an ambiance that will make any stay most enjoyable. 

For those who would like to vacation in a self-catering accommodation, the owners also offer Villa les Palmiers, a two-bedroom gîte which can be rented by the week.  Do visit their pages on our site soon to see this beautiful, welcoming guest house.

Domaine Ployez-Jacquemart is a recently-opened bed and breakfast on the estate of the highly acclaimed Champagne Ployez-Jacquemart ~  what a lovely place to stay!  Five beautifully-appointed rooms, all en suite, are available to guests who will find this an excellent base for their exploration of the Champagne region of France.  Exclusive gourmet dinners complete with Champagne from the Domaine along with lovely wines are offered to guests with advance reservation.  Do visit it today to see how absolutely charming Domaine Ployez-Jacquemart is!

Château du Guerinet is truly a stunning 18th century château in the Loire Valley offering guests six elegantly furnished and beautifully decorated suites to ensure a comfortable, relaxing and authentic château experience.  The friendly owners, originally from Australia, are eager to welcome guests to their home and to assist them with their stays in the Loire.  A bed & breakfast accommodation, the château is also offered for weekly rentals during the summer months as well as other selected times during the year ~ it is a perfect venue for weddings and group celebrations.  Please look at their pages on our site to see just how enchanting the guest rooms and the entire château are!

Château des Allues, a cozy and delightful château at the edge of the Alpes in the spectacular Savoie region of eastern France is one château you don't want to miss.   It begs to be visited, whether for ski vacations in the winter or trekking holidays any other time of year.  For those who are simply intrested in clean air, beautiful countryside, visiting historic towns, and sublime cuisine, it is perfect for you as well.  Proprietor Stéphane Vandeville loves to cook, and if you reserve a spot at the table for dinner, you will have an outstanding and memorable meal!

Guest Review:  What a wonderful place!  The château is just outside of a charming little village, complete with Swiss-style chalet homes, and we enjoyed our walk into town several times during our stay.  Especially enjoyable was the little 'waterfall' rushing down from the mountains not far from the château's entrance gates.  Dinner was delicious and beautifully presented, and we not only enjoyed the local wines served but the company of other guests at the table.  Our room was grand and the views spectacular...especially sunrise over the alps.  We'll go back and would recommend it to anyone. D & MT, California USA

Château de Saint-Martory  is a landmark building nestled in the Garonne river valley with a view of the Pyrénées and only 45 minutes from Toulouse.  Built in the 1520’s, the property was completely renovated between 1998 to 2002 and offers modern, luxurious facilities in an untouched historical environment.  The château sits above the River Garonne, right on its banks, which makes for a tranquil retreat in a beautiful setting. It is always rented as a whole and guests will find services tailored to their needs.  It is a fully catered property (chef on site available to prepare dinner when required) and housekeeping services are provided.  There is still ample 2007 availability, so visit the château on this web site to pay it a virtual visit and make your reservations!  It's a great venue for weddings ~especially for the photography!

Castel Merle in the Dordogne will enchant you with its charm and ambiance.  Historic yet completely restored for the ultimate in comfort, this unique property offers a capable live-in staff for housekeeping and to prepare meals.   Rent it by the week at a reasonable rate which includes five wonderful dinner meals Monday through Friday, breakfast each morning.  The location is perfect for family gatherings and special events.  To make it easy for you, you can book online on Castel Merle's main page on our site.

Château de Vaudezert will impress you with its grandeur and charm.  It is located in Juvigny-sous-Andaine in the Orne département of Normandy and near the medieval town of Domfront to the west and the spa town of Bagnoles de l'Orne to the east.  Guests will appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this magnificent château at the edge of the forest Andaine within the national park of Normandie Maine.  Guests are invited to rent the luxurious suites offered by the friendly new owners.  Do pay them a visit on our web site by clicking above on the château name.

A romantic Burgundian château has just joined au Château: Château du Four de Vaux, an elegantly-proportioned castle with double curved stairs leading to the main entrance.  The original architectural details remain intact, such as the intricate woodwork, parquet floors in point de Hongrie style, free stone, spiral staircases, murals and the unique towers which contribute to the château's romantic atmosphere.  The grounds are romantic as well, with a lovely ornamental pond, chapel and century-old trees.  Guests should request the Oenological Escapade offered by the owners of Château du Four de Vaux.  This includes two nights stay with breakfast, a four-hour wine appreciation and tasting experience, finished with a Burgundy buffet for six to twelve people and is a very exciting evening.   But, do bring the children as well.  The property offers them a little play area and pony rides!

You can rent the splendid Château de Détilly, a lovely château in the Loire Valley, that appeals to the most discerning travelers.  Lovely rooms, exquisite design and modern conveniences combine to make this the ideal destination.  For lovers of wine and grand châteaux, this is the perfect place to stay and to call 'home' at the end of busy sightseeing excursions.  And, for those who don't want to rent the entire château, the Coach House is available for self-catering stays.  The fine swimming pool, tennis courts, and beautiful landscape will keep you outdoors during the day and the elegant and comfortable rooms of the château will make your evenings grand!

Château de la Charmeraie, is a beautiful, sienne-colored 19th century home built in the Florentine style and beautifully unique.  In the Rhône département near the city of Lyon known for its fine cuisine, guests will find Château de la Charmeraie a delight for the eyes.  The approach, down a drive lined with century-old trees will be a most memorable first impression.  Guests can fish in the lake, swim in the pool, or spend their days visiting Lyon, St-Etienne, Vienne or the beautiful Rhône countryside!

Château de Chambost, also near Lyon in the département of the Rhône, offers five beautiful guest rooms, all en suite, as well as fine cuisine in a stunning 16th century dining room.  In a region is know for fine foods and wine, a stay at Château de Chambost will not disappoint.  If you are interested in learning to prepare the regional cuisine or want to live in France for a week to immerse yourself in the France language, this is the place for you!    Located on a farm at an altitude of 600 meters, one can enjoy fresh air, fresh food and gain a new perspective on vacationing.  Come to the Rhône and Château de Chambost to escape the busy world and relax!

Château Juvenal is warm and enchanting with its Provençal location and surrounded by its own vineyards and olive groves.  Sparkling in the sunlight of southern France, Château Juvenal offers fine guest accommodations, dinners of regional cuisine including wine, and a refreshing swimming pool.  Explore the villages and vineyards of Provence, spend hours wandering through the Carpentras market, or just enjoy quiet and relaxation at the château.  Please visit them on our pages today! 

Read an excerpt from someone who discovered Château Juvenal's wonderful wine in July of 2006:

"Yesterday we visited a small town...close to where we live in Edinburgh, called Peebles and ate at a small bistro. Their Wine Merchant had supplied them with Château Juvenal 2004. IT WAS EXCELLENT and quite made our luncheon party. We had some good wines in the Luberon last summer during an extended visit there but nothing as good as yours."

Château Lagorce is a grand château for rent near St-Emilion and Bordeaux.  Groups can rent this beautiful château (either 10 bedrooms or 15 bedrooms ~ all en suite) by the week, and become to the manor born!  Each room is luxurious and peaceful, the amenities are abundant, and we are thrilled to include them on au Château.  Guests can enjoy the swimming pool, full-size snooker table, table tennis, air hockey, golf practice area, and even a small river.  Nearby they can avail themselves of opportunities to go horseback riding, water skiing, play tennis, rent bicycles or go hot-air ballooning.  Also near the Médoc and its vineyards, Château Lagorce is ideally suited to those interested in France's richest wine region. Visit it on our site today to experience Château Lagorce for yourself!  This is a perfect venue for a wedding!

The proprietors of Le Pavillon de Galon, our newest member in Provence, offer two spacious and lovely en suite guest rooms in their stunning home which is set among exceptional gardens and spring-fed bassins.  Conveniently located south of Apt and north of Aix-en-Provence, Le Pavillon de Galon is an excellent base for touring the region.  Cooking lessons and landscape painting can be arranged for guests.  The entire property is available to rent during the summer months. Do visit them on our site today!

Château Meyre, a beautiful wine-producing estate in the Médoc of Aquitaine, offers luxury guest lodging.  In fact, this 18th century château has been awarded three stars for its accommodations!  But, in addition to its elegance and comfort, guests will certainly appreciate that it has been planted in vines for three centuries.  Your stay at this active, award-winning château will be a happy experience long remembered.

Château de Méouilles, located in the Alpes de Haute Provence, is the perfect getaway location for those of you who would like to rent your 'own' château in the sun-filled southeast of France.  High on a hill overlooking the verdant countryside, Château de Méouilles offers spacious rooms, fully-equipped kitchens and tasteful décor to make your stay truly memorable.  Originally offering two apartments, a third became available in June at the same time the new swimming pool was completed.  Visit them now on our web site! 

Château de Grézan has been called 'la petite Carcassonne", and when you see it, you'll certainly understand why. Located in the warm and friendly Languedoc region of southern France, this historic château was once occupied by the Knights Templar and even has a tile floor formerly part of an ancient Roman bath!   Surrounded by vineyards and within an easy drive to the Mediterranean coast, the château is located for sun-baked, relaxing holidays!   This is the perfect venue for a wedding or a weeklong summer vacation.  Contact the owner on our web site today to inquire about current special offers.

Château de Montcru, is a lovely château near the tiny village of Allières in the Ariège Pyrénées of southern France offering weekly guest lodging in a four bedroom wing of the château, as well as bed and breakfast accommodations in the main château.  The owners and their two daughters live there year 'round and provide advice and guidance to guests regarding the wide range of activities in the region.  From tax-free shopping in nearby Andorra to horseback riding at the château, visitors will find it the ideal spot for a lovely self-catering holiday in France or for a few wonderful nights at the bed and breakfast ~ during any season of the year. 

Near Chinon in the Loire Valley the Château de Bournand  is a very interesting and inviting property.  It joined our site on New Year's Eve day in 2004!  This lovely château, owned by an American couple, has been recently restored to a very high standard to offer bed and breakfast accommodations in a very desirable region of France.   The rooms are spacious (guest rooms each have their own salon or sitting area), the furniture is comfortable and tasteful, and there is an elegant atmosphere from one end of the château to the other.  If you are interested in prehistoric relics and sites, you will be impressed by Europe's largest dolman quite near the château!   And, for those who would like weekly, self-catering lodging, the Carriage House, just renovated, is perfect.  Do visit them on our site to see just how wonderful Château de Bournand is!

In the warm and wonderful Vaucluse département of Provence you will find Domaine le Vallon, whose host and hostess, Fred and Michèle Vogt, are eager to greet new guests to their exceptional home.  Each guest room is superb, but what may be most remembered is the love your host and hostess have for this château treasure.  Please read the recent review sent to us by a couple from California:

Guest Review: "Domaine le Vallon is a delightful country château surrounded by vineyards.  Guests drive through an allée of plane trees that are more than 300 years old to reach the domaine.  The château is filled with exquisite antiques, some of them original to the château (built in approximately 1705) and restored paintings of the period.  The hosts are warm and inviting -- we felt more like invited guests than paying clients.

"We stayed in the Rose Room which is stunning.  The antique furniture was comfortable and the armoire and dresser allowed us to unpack and stow the luggage, so we did not have the feeling of being in a hotel room.  Our bathroom was large enough to have a party!  It contained all new fixtures, luxurious linens and lovely amenities.

"Our hosts made dinner reservations for us in a nearby village and ensured that my food allergies were accommodated.  It was one of the finest meals we enjoyed in Europe.

"We recommend Le Vallon highly, and we look forward to returning again for a longer stay." Mr & Mrs C., San Diego, California 

Le Prieuré du Château de Biron  is an enchanting historic property offering seven luxurious rooms and located not far from the delightful market town of Monpazier, built in the late 13th century in collaboration with Pierre de Gontaut, the Lord of Biron.  Nearby are Domme, la Roque Gageac,  Bergerac, Sarlat and Beynac, to name a few of the region's delightful towns.   Please visit Le Prieuré on our pages today for details about these holidays and so much more! 

Guest Review:   Rarely does one have experiences ‘beyond expectations’.  Le Prieuré is just that.  Biron, the town itself, is a step back in time with virtually no commercial influences and just several kilometers off the scenic two-laner between Villereal and Monpazier.  Speaking of which, being so near (6 km?) Montpazier – the best of the bastides -- is a bonus.  No flies on Villereal either.  But one could literally stay in and around Le Prieuré and Biron by themselves for days.  The Château de Biron is a half-day [visit] in itself and is a rare combination of architectural styles and periods.  Strolling the small town and environs you can truly imagine life in centuries past.  The surrounding roads are a cycling paradise.  OK, that’s all the icing.  Le Prieuré itself is one of those rare combinations of style and substance.  Elegant but understated.  It is very tastefully redecorated, private and VERY atmospheric.  You get to feel like you actually live there.  Or, maybe really have, in a previous life.  Even the outside signage is so understated that as we came and went from the private parking lot, we liked to pretend that it was 'ours' to the passersby.  The private patio is secluded and nicely landscaped.  The adjacent garden was literally taken over with our small family for picnics and warm afternoon reading.  We rented the apartment, which we are hesitant to promote, because we said we’d always want it available when we are ready [to return] again.  Other rooms are more stylish but the aparment, especially with children, is great for its separate entrance.  We peeked more than once into the other unoccupied rooms, always marveling at how handsome they were and how we’d have to return someday just us as a couple ~ or take over the whole place for a week with friends.  The sitting room with massive fireplace in itself is worth the stay for atmosphere and relaxation. . .We hesitate to call it a B&B, as that sounds so ordinary.  Le Prieuré is far beyond the ordinary, and we are delighted to recommend it. If only it doesn’t get too popular!  G. & N.G., Washington State, USA

Château de Garrevaques,  in the beautiful Tarn region of southwestern France,  has expanded its guest facilties to include a five-bedroom farmhouse and private garden for family vacations or to accommodate a group of friends.

And, in December of 2004, 15 beautiful air conditioned guest rooms with canopy beds and ensuite bathrooms were created on the property along with two restaurants and a complete spa!  Now visitors can enjoy the charm of a château, the health benefits of a spa, fine cuisine, and the attractions of the Tarn region all at one place:  Château de Garrevaques!

If you know of anyone planning a wedding in France, Marie-Christine Combes, your hostess at Garrevaques, is there to help.  With the large Orangerie (over 3600 square feet) now occupying their beautiful ancient barn, the Combes can offer ideal facilities for a wedding, dances, reunions, large parties and seminars.   The château alone can accommodate 25 guests.

Pleasevisit Château de Garrevaques on our web site to learn more about the château, the farmhouse, the spa, the restaurants and all the relaxing and interesting pastimes to be found there -- before you plan your next visit to France! 

Guest Review:   "What do little girls dream of? ... sleeping in a pink turretted château in the middle of the French countryside ~ and that's exactly what I did.  It was wonderful. The Château de Garravaques has been in the family for generations, and now Marie-Christine and her husband, Claude, welcome you warmly to their home in the village of Garravaques. Nothing is too much trouble, and it is the ideal place for a rest and total relaxation or even recuperation. The surrounding woods (great for picnics) and countryside are silent, ensuring an excellent sleep in the antique beds (modern matresses), and the fabulous swimming pool is a wonderful way of enjoying the sun and a little gentle excercise!  The chef produces a superb selection of French cuisine, and for total pampering the spa provides everything from massage to a multiplicity of wraps ~ absolute bliss.  It is not surprising that the carefully-preserved historic rooms provide an excellent backdrop for a wedding or special ocassion. Satisfaction guaranteed. I loved it." Fay Hart, Paris

Château du Guilguiffin  offers lovely, friendly accommodations in an exceptional Breton location.  This historic and spacious château sits on beautifully landscaped grounds.  Guests enjoy comfortable rooms, copious breakfasts, and the ease of visiting so many of Finistère's attractions.  We invite you to visit their pages on au Château to see it for yourself.  Here is what a recent guest wrote:

Guest Review:   "The experience has been excellent.  Totally worth it.  I've been trying to get a stay in a château and finally made it.  Château du Guilguiffin is impressive,  and from the first moment you arrive you are treated like a king.  Very spacious and well kept.  Decoration is excellent with extreme good taste.  Lots of trails to walk in the area.  Margot is a great hostess, and she prepared a day tour for us...touching on each little town...that is worth a visit.  Also, her recommendations for restaurants were always a success.  Nice, charming and elegant places to enjoy wonderful meals. I wanted to express my thanks to you and let you know what a terrific time I had those two days at the chateau.  I will definitely recommend [Guilguiffin] to anyone who's looking for a peaceful, elegant and exclusive vacation at a reaonable price." I.G., USA

And this review from R.C., USA:  "My stay at Guilguiffin was wonderful - la Chambre Bleue est formidable.  I loved the dogs and the wonderful conversations with M. Davy about French history (he spoke very clearly for me and helped me with my French).  Margot is so charming and pretty. I hiked everyday on the coast - ten miles average and dined at a variety of great restaurants.   What a beautiful place with the forests, rugged coast, quaint harbor towns and farms."

Château de Talhouët, in the département of the Morbihan, is a much-loved château whose owner had a boyhood dream of making this beautiful estate his one day.  And that dream came true.  Talhouët is ideally located for exploring seaside villages and prehistoric sites in this ancient land.  Your host is Jean-Pol Soulaine, and he will welcome you warmly to his home.   Here are two impressions of this château and Monsieur Soulaine from recent guests:

Guest Reviews:  "Perfect! I could stay there the rest of my life.  Beautiful structure and setting, beautiful rooms, impeccable tile baths, fine service, delicious food.  His cook is a treasure.  M. Soulaine is a prince  -  by worth and nature, if not by birth  - gracious, imperturbable, great good taste.  He has owned the place for thirteen years  and restored it. . .everything looks as if it'd been there forever.   Don't miss this one.  Even Phineas, the dog, is a charmer.  Rochefort-en-Terre is worth an afternoon."  K.B., Connecticut

And, "My husband and I were fortunate to have chosen the Chateau de Talhouet as one of our places to stay during a trip to Brittany last September and were pleased to see that it is now included in your list of lovely chateaux accepting guests. Monsieur Jean-Pol Soulaine is an excellent host, and we were totally delighted with our beautiful room, the delicious meals, and the stunning grounds of this beautiful little castle, a true architectural gem.  Although located in a peaceful  pastoral setting , it is quite near many interesting places to see in southern Brittany. We give this beautiful place with its owner our highest recommendation." B.N., California 

"The graciousness of Monsieur Soulaine, the setting with stunning views in such a lovely part of Brittany, and the château itself are only matched by the fantastic cuisine!  One feels in the lap of luxury while being privileged to share someone's much-loved home!  We hope to return again soon." D. S., California

The General Marquis de Lafayette played a pivotal role in the United States War of Independence, so it is with great interest that we visited Château de Vollore in France's Auvergne, owned by a direct descendant of the General, Madame Aubert de La Fayette and her charming husband.  Our stay was luxurious and restful.  The scenery outstanding. Local cuisine perfect.  And, most of all, our host and hostess were two of the most welcoming people you will ever meet in France.  Touring the rooms of the château and viewing keepsakes of the General with Monsieur Aubert de La Fayette was an enlightening and educational experience we will always remember.   We recently received the following letter from another recent guest, one with a very special interest in General Lafayette:

Guest Review: "Dear friends, I enjoyed reading au Château News. I stayed at chateau Vollore last summer (2002) and agree with your assessment of the Aubert La Fayettes and the fine accommodations. I will never forget them.  Since I am writing a biography of General Lafayette, I drove south to the château musée Chavaniac, where there is a fascinating sound and light show. I also visited Le Puy en Velay and saw the ruined château Polignac. I am a retired art and architecture critic and live with my wife in sunny Naples, Florida. Bonne chance! Sincerely, D. M. "

Guest Review:  "M. Aubert La Fayette is one of the most gracious hosts we had.  The castle is very special...although we had a hard time finding it as there are lots of turns along the way...and not [many] signs."   Mr & Mrs T, Philadelphia

If you are interested in a short break in northeastern France, Château des Monthairons offers you its Short Stay Package -- a great place to stay, wonderful meals and more!  The offer is for two people/two nights in a double room, a three-course dinner plus cheese trolley and dessert for two each evening (drinks not included).   Continental breakfast each morning, a welcome drink upon arrival, two tickets to visit the local site or museum of your choice, and it is possible to include canoeing or cycling.  Prices upon request, or visit their au Château page and click on the link to their web site where you will find all their special offers and current prices.

There is also a Villegiature special for three or four days stay and the Découverte special for one night, dinner for two, a bottle of Champagne and two breakfasts.  Details of these packages can be found on the château's own web site (see their au Château page for the link).

Guest Review:    "Last June (2002), my mother and I rented a car in Paris and went on a plan-it-as-you-go trip through Europe.  We stumbled upon [Château des] Monthairons and stayed one night.  We felt very fortunate to have found such a beautiful and elegant retreat away from the hectic world.  We enjoyed the history and architecture of the Château, as well as the sprawling grounds and countryside.  We...walked up and down the banks of the [River] Meuse and thought Monthairons was a special place.  Breakfast was superb and the Château staff could not have been better. The people there were really nice to my mother and me.  We have a framed poster of the Château in our front hallway because we liked our stay so much.  If we were ever to [stay at] a château for a week, the Château des Monthairons would be it."  B.M., Maine USA

Wine aficionados will adore Château Coulon Laurensac, located midway between the vineyards of the Médoc Peninsula and St Emilion and just a few minutes outside the city of Bordeaux.  This marvelous château is owned by a truly international couple who can communicate with their guests not only in French and English but in Dutch as well.  Monsieur is a certified wine expert, and their own wine cellar is excellent.  We had the pleasure of a visit one recent  September, and found the cellar to be exceptional and our accommodations perfect!

Wine tours are an important part of their repertoire, so guests who want to know more about the Bordeaux region and its wines will find themselves in good hands.  Considering the beautiful gîtes, the opportunity to enjoy fine cuisine at Bordeaux area restaurants, as well as suggestions freely given for independent wine country visits, Château Coulon Laurensac is a 'must' destination in southwest France. 

And, for those of you making plans for 2009, three tours are planned for Spring, Summer and Autumn:  May 25 - May 30 / August 31 - September 5 / September 21 - September 26.  Contact us to get details and pricing of the tours.  Send an email to inquiry@au-chateau.com and please put Bordeaux Wine Tours in the subject line.

Combine the charm and ambiance of the château with the expertly guided wine tours of the fascinating Bordeaux region, and you will have a stay in southwest France that will be not only memorable but truly unique  ~ all reasonably priced and including accommodations at Château Coulon Laurensac!

Château de Villette,  in western Burgundy, sits on 500 acres of amazing parklands in the Morvan hills -- some of the most beautiful countryside in France.  But, there is more!  The château can be the perfect bed and breakfast destination or is available some weeks of the year to rent in its entirety.  Fine wines from the hosts' cellars are offered at dinner to accompany superb Burgundian cuisine.  The region is heaven for wine lovers, near famous Beaune and easily accessible for dégustations at some of the world's most renowned wine domaines.   Visit the château on our site today to see photos of the guest accommodations and this beautiful château, as well as for details for your own visit.

We expect everyone will be enchanted by Villa le Goëland on the wonderful southwest coast of France.   Offering 180 degree panoramic views of the Atlantic shore, the Golfe de Gascogne and southward to Spain, this marvelous villa is breathtaking both inside and out!  There are three comfortable and spacious guest rooms (each with romantic views), lovely salons and a friendly host and hostess who are waiting to welcome you to France's Basque country.  And, because it is located in exciting and fashionable Biarritz, guests will enjoy all this small city has to offer including the casinos, nightclubs, several beautiful parks, fine restaurants, the Musée de la Mer, the port, grand promenades, dramatic cliffs dropping to the sea and superb beaches.  Villa le Goëland is bound to please even the most discerning traveler.

We had the pleasure of two nights at the Villa during a recent September and can honestly say we were very sad to leave!  The Villa is spectacular in every way, and we found ourselves cancelling plans to drive south along the coast ~ instead parking our car for two days (the Villa offers private parking to its guests, and parking is a hard-to-find commodity in Biarritz) and simply walking to all the local attractions, shopping and restaurants.  Biarritz is truly a resort in the complete sense of the word.  The Villa Le Goëland and our host, Paul, made it all the more special.

Chateau de Boucéel   in Normandy's Manche département has long been a favorite of visitors to our web site.  It is a charming residence with an interesting history and guests are always made to feel like old friends.  A very short time ago one such guest returned home,  and she was kind enough to share her experiences at and observations of the château with us.

Guest Review: "Finding au-chateau.com was a dream come true!  I felt like a kid in a candy store looking at all the beautiful chateaux.  After several communications with three chateaux,  we decided to book a reservation at the Chateau de Boucéel.  They were best able to accommodate us,  and the price was excellent.  I traveled to France with my daughter and her Aunt,  and the duration of our stay at the chateau was April 27 thru April 30, 2003.

"Chateau de Boucéel is breathtaking to say the least. The chateau is warm and inviting yet is very regal and elegant.  We felt so welcomed.  Beautiful moldings and paintings adorn all the walls throughout the chateau. The parquet floors,  large windows and wall paneling and moldings are very reminiscent of Versailles.  The current chateau was created in the mid-1750s out of the stone from the castle that use to be a few hundred yards away which had been the post during the Hundred Years War to notify Mont Saint Michel of any armies coming.

"Comte Regis is nothing less than the most charming and gracious host.  This was so much more than going to a bed and breakfast.  This was the chance of a lifetime to visit with a family that has owned this property for hundreds and hundreds of years.  He has so much knowledge that he loves to share regarding the history of the land and his family. Truly remarkable!  It has been an honor to meet him.

"The three of us stayed in Nelly's bedroom (Nelly was his aunt,  and this was her room).  It was exquisite with its marble mantel and many family portraits that go back  several generations.  Family history is placed around the room,  such as Nelly's birth announcement tucked in the mantle mirror.  The large windows open to the pond and cow pasture.  The small room off the adjoining bathroom was the Comte's room as a small boy.  The bathroom was large and very clean.   The beds were very comfortable and the sheets are of rich cotton/linen.  We felt like royalty when we slipped between the sheets for a wonderful night's sleep.

"Breakfast was delicious with a bounty of wonderful bakery, jams, coffee, cocoa and fresh orange juice served elegantly in the dining room.  It is an experience I will always treasure.  We all would love to come back and stay again some day since three days were not enough time to see everything we wanted to see."  A.K., Wisconsin, USA

Guest Review: "Château de Boucéel and the Count were delightful...a charming host.  It was hard to believe we were sleeping in a room occupied twenty years before the Revolutionary War!  I cannot even imagine staying in anything but a chateau from this point foreward."  WEE, California, USA

The beautiful Château de Saint-Michel-de-Lanès, between Castelnaudary and Toulouse is a charming family property with an interesting history.  We are happy to present them to visitors of our site.    The château's location is ideal for visiting this exciting region of the 'the other south of France', and guests will find their young host and hostess warm and welcoming and absolutely delightful.  The Aude is a marvelous region to visit, with many touristic activities, the medieval city of Carcassonne, Toulouse (la ville rose) and a delightful climate.  Please visit Château de Saint Michel de Lanèson our site today and see how lovely and inviting it is.  Book your accommodations at this property directly with us at info@au-chateau.com.

A warm greeting from Monsieur and Madame Eichenauer awaits guests of Château de Labessière in the historic Meuse département of northeastern France -- and, for guests who mention this web site, a complimentary bottle of regional white wine! Château de Labessière is not only a charming and comfortable place to stay complete with a swimming pool, but it is the perfect base from which to visit all the significant World War I monuments and battlefields of Lorraine.   M. Eichenauer provides excellent resources and maps for visiting the area.  Following are highlights of some letters he has received from former guests.

Guest Reviews: "It is amazing to see what you have done with this château!  Every room is gorgeous.  Also, your welcome care and attention to your visitors is wonderful, and the meals are excellent." (R.R., USA).... "Thank you for a glorious three night oasis.  The food, service, ambiance and host were wonderful.  The carefully written-out English directions for the trip around Argonne Forest were superbly helpful." (J. & H. A, Toledo, Ohio, USA)... "What a delightful stay.  The food was the best we've had in Europe.  Thanks for keeping the kitchen open late for us." (R.R., Texas, USA)... "After seven years of visiting France, this is the best place we have stayed.  Wonderful food, great host and attention to details that made our stay in the area a most enjoyable experience." (D. & P.C., Houston, Texas, USA)... "Had a wonderful trip.  This place is too good to be true.  Everything was superb.  You opened your home to us like we were family; dinner exquisite; drinks so delicious; breakfast the best ever.  We'll be back." (R.G., Los Angeles, CA, USA)... "Our stay with you was the best part of our visit to France.  Les chambres, les repas, l'hospitalité MAGNIFIQUE." (M.,S.,M.,B. & C.L., USA)... "Thank you for an enjoyable stay in your wonderfully warm home.  The meals were superb and the hospitality was exceptional.  We'll remember you always." (A. & J. M., St Louis, Missouri, USA).

So, you can clearly see that favorable opinions of the hospitality, food and comfort of a stay at Château de Labessière are abundant.  Don't miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful  Lorraine region of France, take in its complex history with visits to its cities and battlefields, and then unwind and relax in the tranquility of this carefully-restored family home where you will be treated as a very special guest.  René Eichenauer is waiting to welcome you!  And, for your complimentary bottle of  white wine -- tell him you discovered Labessière on au Château!

Château Les Hauts  directly faces Le Mont St-Michel across the bay.  We've all heard that the three most important values in real estate are location, location, location, and that is certainly true of this much-loved, inviting and wonderful château.  The Château Les Hauts in the Manche département of Normandy is dramatically perched on a high bluff overlooking the Baie du Mont Saint Michel and the island monument is in clear view.  But location doesn't tell the whole story!  The décor is charming and cozy, the rooms warm and inviting and the gardens delightful.  We know that a visit to Le Mont St-Michel and the Cotentin Peninsula would not be complete without a stay at Château Les Hauts -- guests can even take cooking classes with their hostess, Suzanne Leroy, and enjoy host André's home-made apéritif, Pommeau. Visit them on our web site today! 

** Perhaps you would be interested in the culinary course offered by Madame Leroy.  Visit their pages on our site to learn more! **

Guest Review:   We visited Les Hauts in the off season which was wonderful.  It is a great jumping off point to prowl Normandy, Mont St. Michel and St. Malo. Les Hauts is a perfect place.  Madame Leroy is delightful and full of stories of the history of Les Hauts and her family.  The rooms are lovely.  Ours overlooked the bay,  and we spent late afternoons at the window enjoying wine and cheese from the local town.  Breakfasts are fantastic.  Madame makes her own jams,  and her hazelnut butter is almost worth the trip alone.  We would definitely go back."   V.A., Michigan, USA

Guest Review:  "Madame Leroy is a doll...we loved her.  Although we were only there one night, we got a good feel for the place.  They give a welcoming bottle of Pomme de Normandie that they make on the property, and it is delicious!!  We stayed in the Eisenhower Suite and heard all about its history." Mr & Mrs T, Philadelphia

A  seasoned traveler recently wrote of his auto trip to enjoy some of the highlights of Normandy.  Having never stayed in château bed and breakfasts before, he found himself pleasantly surprised when he arrived at Château de la Roque:

Guest Review:   " The Château de La Roque (double room 84 Euros/$112) lies a few miles west of St-Lô, not far from the Normandy Beaches and the famous Bayeux tapestry. You approach down a narrow, tree-lined lane, pass through an iron gate and find an immense lawn separating the château from the old, now-converted, stables which house the main dining room, kitchen and additional sleeping units. 

"Every evening at seven we gathered on the lawn for a pre-dinner apéritif.  Dinner was served at eight in the dining room ~ a hall with one long table that seats 20 or 24 persons as well as a few side tables.  Dinner was served family style.  Madame Delisle oversees the kitchen. We enjoyed an excellent green salad, roast pork loin, Brussels sprouts and couscous, followed by cheese selections, and, finally, the best tiramisu I have ever eaten.  Apple cider was served before the meal along with bottled water, and an apple-based liqueur and coffee completed the 24 Euro ($32) meal.

"Petit déjeuner every morning awaits guests in the château.  Breakfast includes rolls, cheeses, yogurts, juice, coffee and tea.

"We had been assured by those at au Château that we would like any château we might choose from their web site, regardless of price.  We were not disappointed."  D. D., Santa Maria, California 

Château de la Foltière has tours for all seasons at the le Parc Floral de Haute-Bretagne -- those beautiful gardens you see on their web pages.  Throughout the year there are scheduled expositions and plant sales (for those of you who live near enough to Brittany to take a plant home!) and the gardens are always in bloom with color.  And guests of Château de la Foltière will be made most comfortable by the kind and charming Monsieur Jouno, who transformed this corner of Brittany into an enchanted floral oasis.  His dedication and devotion to his gardens is abundantly clear to everyone who visits the gardens or is a guest of the château.  Contact M. Jouno for events during the year or visit his own web site  -- a link can be found on our site at Château de la Foltière.

Guest Review:  In 2001, a contest was held by the newsletter, FRANCE On Your Own, and the winner received a two-night stay for two at a château selected from this web site.  The winner, J.M. of California, selected Château de la Foltière  in Brittany  -- she and her husband spent four days there in the Spring following a three-week visit to the south of France.  "Our host, M. Jouno, welcomed us graciously . . . you could see his pride in the château and his passion for the gardens he'd designed.   The château . . . has three floors.  Its restoration has been done with meticulous care . . .   Our room, the 'Renoir', was spacious and lovely with warm colors . . . and Louis XVI-styled furniture.  Our days began with breakfast in the tea salon, complete with table linens and vases of fresh flowers.  The breakfast was excellent . . .   We were struck by the thought and imagination that had gone into the creation of the themed gardens .  No matter what you choose to do during the day . . . it's a delight to wander through the gardens at days' end." 

Did you know that opulence and luxury await you at Le Petit Manoir des Bruyères? This is no ordinary country house - au contraire!  It is an elegant 500 year-old manoir lovingly decorated and tended by its owners, Pierre and Monique Joullié.  Located near that jewel-like city on the River Yonne, Auxerre,  Le Petit Manoir des Bruyères invites you to stay.  From the modern satellite TVs and a safe for your belongings, to the total luxury of an Italian shower set into the bathroom ceiling, Thassos marble bathroom fixtures punctuated by gold and ivory taps, to the bedrooms with painted ceilings and fabric walls, this property will not disappoint you.  Whether you want an apartment for a week, a suite for several days or a large double room for a night or two --  most overlooking the flower-filled gardens -- Le Petit Manoir des Bruyères is there to please.  Breakfast is included with all rooms and dinner is served (by reservation) on tables beautifully laid with porcelain, crystal and silverware and accented by fresh flowers from the lovely gardens.  After a day touring the Burgundy villages and vineyards, Le Petit Manoir des Bruyères is an oasis of comfort and tranquility where you will receive personalized attention and be made to feel at home. 

It  may be easier than you think to have a château to call your own!   In the beautiful Charente-Maritime just north of the city of Saintes is Château de Crazannes, " The Château of Puss in Boots". au Château News  published an issue devoted solely to this  magnificent property - au Château News Special Edition - September 2001 .   Guests can experience the spectacular views of  the River Charente and rolling green countryside from the Keep's roof terrace, swim in the heated pool with its own pool house, or rent the entire Keep, Cottage or Château for a week or more to accommodate  family and friends!  We spent time at Château de Crazannes and can attest to the comfort, beauty and historic appeal of this château set in the magnificent Charente countryside.  Our stay was wonderful,  and the château and property are fascinating.  We hope that you will make reservations to stay there very soon!     Your charming host, Hervé de Rochefort, is eager to welcome you to his historic home, and you can contact him through our web site for details about weekly rentals.  Guests are always in the kind and capable care of the property manager, Sylvain Fougerit, whom we found to be invaluable in assisting with restaurant recommendations and tourist information as well as being very knowledgeable with regard to the history of the château and the region.  Château de Crazannes should be on everyone's list of places to stay in western France. 

Guest Review: It wasn't long ago that we heard from four Americans who had been guests at Château de Canisy in Normandy.  Here is just some of the praise they heaped upon the property and its owner:  "Our real treat, however, was the Château de Canisy.  You were correct -- it did take our breath away.  We four were the only guests, and they treated us to the complete experience. . . cocktails, time to explore, dinner complete with fireplace going. . . Their English is excellent, as well as everything else, including the wine served with dinner. . .What a treat it was.  We would like to go back."

Remember that this large château can be rented to accommodate wedding guests, all the family and friends for a celebratory event, or makes the ideal location for a garden wedding.  Past guests have had assistance arranging catering, wedding dinners, hot-air balloon rides and garden cocktail parties, so anything is possible.  Contact us at info@au-chateau.com with your ideas or questions for renting Château de Canisy. [The château no longer operates bed & breakfast accommodations.]

And another Review:" We were overwhelmed by the hospitality extended to us during our too-brief stay at Château de Canisy.  A fire glowing in every room, cocktails and hors d'oeuvres served in grand style, and our beautiful room!  It was just wonderful.  We will recommend more than one night at Château de Canisy to anyone who will listen!!"

Guest Review: We have had a communiqué from guests who discovered Château du Foulon (on the Médoc Peninsula)  while visiting this web site.  They were kind enough to drop us a note to let us know how their visit went.  Here is an excerpt:  "It was our first time in Aquitaine,  and we really didn't want to spend our nights in a hotel in Bordeaux.  We found Château du Foulon on the au Château web site and made our reservations.  It turned out better than we ever expected. . .Château du Foulon is in a quiet area with acres and acres of grounds. . .we enjoyed the region, had an easy drive into Bordeaux, went to two Médoc wineries and even drove to the Atlantic Ocean as you suggested.  Thanks again for having this lovely château on your site!" 

And, more recently, we heard from another guest of Château du Foulon."We'll not soon forget our pleasant days at Château du Foulon, from the walks along wooded paths to the good breakfasts shared with other guests. Our hospitable hosts helped with our questions about the Médoc...we ventured onto bikes after many years of not riding, and the relatively flat terrain made it easy and a  pleasure.  We look forward to the day when we can return to enjoy it all again."

If you've thought of renting a cottage or a château in the lovely wine country of Burgundy's Côte d'Or, we have just the place for you! The owners of  Antigny-le-Château  offer both at their historic château in a tiny hamlet of the same name  --  and it can be all yours to rent.  Or,  if you are seeking more modest accommodations, you can rent the Maison de Jardinier cottage on the grounds.  In either case you will find yourself immersed in the peaceful countryside with time to enjoy all that Burgundy has to offer.  And, we are sure you will find the history of Antigny-le-Château quite compelling, right down to the American owner's family ties to Napoléon! Please visit them today on our web site.

Not long ago we had the distinct pleasure of staying several days at Château de la Motte in Usseau.  This exceptional property has joined our web site as a treasured member, and we say, "Bienvenue!" .  It is a château we heartily recommend to anyone visiting the Vienne region of the Poitou-Charentes.  Lovely beyond description, the château can be seen for miles around as it is perched on the high ground surrounded by rolling countryside.  Each room is a work of love by its owners Marie-Andrée and Jean-Marie Bardin, who have taken this masterpiece in tuffeau stone and made it their home and a chambres d'hôtes of high quality and comfort.  Whether enjoying a delicious dinner in the grand dining room in front of a roaring fire or taking time in the raised garden to absorb the wonders of the endless view, guests will enjoy a rare experience in a place that will remain in their thoughts and memories for years to come.  Visit the château on our web site to learn about the creative classes offered, too!

Château Talaud, with exquisite guest rooms, suites and apartments,  and situated among its own vineyards, is the ideal location for visits to the Vaucluse of Provence.  Recently, we received the following review from someone who discovered it on this web site:

Guest Review:  "The château, rooms and grounds are gorgeous...but by the time we arrived, my husband was very sick. Madame was very gracious about helping me take care of him, as was her husband, who offered to take him to a doctor."   J.T., Philadelphia