Chateau Chinon - Les Ecuries

BFB's Overview.

Arriving at this pretty Chateau, nestled amongst rolling Loire Valley scenery, it's easy to see why its friendly Anglo-French owners, Charlotte and Jerome, were so enthralled that they ditched high flying careers and international travel to transform it into a small but perfectly formed boutique guest house and self-catering cottage.

After completing three luxurious guest suites in the main Chateau two years ago and finding much praise for them from past guests, the Fields have recently transformed the adjoining 16^th century stable block into a contemporary cottage with two bedrooms.

Like the suites, the gite's well-planned design reflects the owners combined experiences of both luxury travel and holidays with tots in tow to provide all the ingredients required for an effortlessly, relaxing family break. The indulgent bathrooms combine high spec finishes with rubber ducks and training seats( on request), whilst the bedrooms are perfect for frazzled parents thanks to the memory foam mattresses and soothing, neutral palette. The kitchen is equipped to high standard, making cooking and preparing feeds a doddle. However when extra relaxation is in order guests can also opt into the hotel’s evening dinner service complete with early kids suppers. Plus, if a night out is called for, there's a useful babysitting service too (24hrs notice required).

The gite has its own private terrace, ideal for alfresco dining, as well as use of the chateau's grounds including a heated outdoor pool, toddler-friendly play area with swings, slide, playhouse etc. and plentiful tranquil seating spots nestled in between. Attractions don't end there as wine enthusiasts (and enthusiastic amateurs), will often enjoy free tastings, along with the opportunity to visit their wine making rooms and six hundred year old vaulted cellars.

Accommodation Overview:

l'Ecurie is set in the central section of the Chateau's 16th century stable block. The gîte has two spacious bedrooms, each with space for a cot and their own luxurious, ensuite bath and shower room. Downstairs there is a spacious open plan living area comprising of a fully fitted kitchen (with dishwasher), dining area, sitting/TV space, and doors to a private rear courtyard terrace.

The communal pool, garden and play areas are and are accessible through the front courtyard.

Fully prepared breakfasts, or a daily bakery delivery service to your door, are available at a small additional charge.

Location Information

Château Chinon is located in the heart of the Loire Valley, amongst rolling farmland just 6km south of Chinon between the hamlets of La Roche Clermault and Marcay. Seuilly, the famous home of Rabelais, is just 5km to the west. The wine producing towns of Saumur, Saumur Champigny and Bourgeuil are within 20 kms, while the major historic Châteaux of the region are all within easy access for daytrips (Chinon 6kms, Ussé 12 kms, Azay Le Rideau 25 kms, Villandry 40 kms.).

Owners, Charlotte and Jerome are a mine of useful information on things to do, places to visit and eat out in the region, plus, thanks to their two very young children, they have up to the minute advice on the most suitable places to visit with tots in tow. Top tips include: the local zoo and velo rail, the Chinon 'Petit Train' tour, the Aquarium and Mini Châteaux park.

Getting There: By Car: It is approx 45mins from the A10 travelling south and 30 mins from the A10 when travelling North. By Train: The nearest TGV station is Tours / Saint Pierre des Corps with regular connections from Paris (55 minutes) and Brussels (3 hours). Car hire is available at this station. There is also a TER regional train link from Tours to Chinon town centre. By Plane: It is approx 1 hour from Angers, Tours and Poitiers airports, and 2hrs from Nantes.

Nearest Medical Services: Pharmacy in La Roche Clermault (2kms) Paediatrician in Chinon (7kms) A&E department at the Francois Rabelais hospital (9kms)