Chateau de La Lanette - St Julien

BFB's Overview.

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees and run by a British family with three young sons, Chateau de la Lanette and its six guestrooms could be tailor made for active couples with tots in tow. From the huge list of baby gear, large indoor playroom and parent friendly touches like children’s suppers and sociable adults evening meals it is pretty much a given that a good time will be had by all.

Guests describe Chateau de La Lanette as a ‘home from home’ and, given that most of us don’t live in a 19th century Chateau on the foothills of the Pyrenean Mountains, it’s clearly the friendly ambiance and not the Chateau's grandeur or stunning location that creates this impression!

Russell and Heather are happy to offer advice on days out, where to go and what to see and best of all the three ready made playmates are always on hand to share an adventure whether it be in the well equipped playroom or in the large walled children’s garden. Parents can rest assured that the 14ft trampoline, ride-ons, sandpit, small pool, climbing frames and swings are always very popular with the many ‘friends’ that their little ones will meet on their holiday.

The guest rooms share access to the elegant dining room, playroom, gardens and large salon with its comfy sofas, open log fire and extensive DVD collection. Perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine from the complimentary bar when the little ones are safely tucked up in bed.

Five nights a week a delicious home cooked children’s supper and 3-course adult’s supper are provided, served in the beautiful wood panelled dining room which is within baby monitor range of all the rooms. Chateau de la Lanette is not just a great place to stay to explore the stunning Pyrenees but a sociable relaxing experience for both adults and little ones alike.

Location Information

Set in the foothills of the French Pyrenees Chateau de La Lanette is a perfect year round location.

During the winter months, ski-ing and snowboarding are the biggest draw. There are five resorts within an hours drive catering for all levels of ski-ers. All the resorts have English speaking ski schools, sledging pistes, and a selection of cafes and restaurants. Back at base guests have access to a drying room, safe indoor boot and ski storage area and usually a homemade cake to help recharge their batteries! Its ideal for those taking tentative steps towards skiing holidays with tots in tow.

The region around La Lanette is also a stunning area to visit in the summer with many activities for all adventurers young and old!! Owners, Heather and Russell a=have experienced most attractions with their own brood and have created the following selection of family days out not to be missed:

1.Pyrenees Ho adventure park is just a 5 minute drive away. A great day out for all children from aged 3-adult, including climbing walls, zip wires, assault courses and giant toboggans.

2. A beautiful natural swimming lake with picnic area, cycle path, climbing frames, ice cream bar and beach area is just a 25 minute drive away.

3. A 20 minute drive takes you to the elegant Spa town of Luchon. Here you will find an outdoor pool, a cable car ride up the mountains, parks, crazy golf, tennis courts, giant trampolines, carousel, a tourist train and a huge choice of restaurants and shops.

4. Perfectly located for exploring the mountains, there are walks easily accessible for all levels and capabilities with little ones in tow. You will find lots of beautiful picnic areas, spots by the lakes and rivers to throw in stones and paddle. Backpacks and cool bags can be provided.

5. There is a safe cycle path which runs along the side of the River Garonne and takes in some breathtaking views, perfect for those budding little ‘Tour De France’ wannabees!! Two adults bikes with toddler seat can be provided.

6. Various castles, historical buildings, museum’s and parks are all within easy reach of Chateau de la Lanette.

Plus, for those happy to travel a little further afield, then the coastal resorts of Biarritz and Narbonne are a 2 hour drive away.

Nearest Medical Services: Pharmacy 5mins drive, doctor 10mins drive and hospital 20mins drive.

Getting There: Both Pau and Toulouse Airports are within 90mins drive, whilst Lourdes and Carcassonne airports are with 2hrs. The ferry port at Bilbao is around 3 hrs drive away