Chateau-Chamborigaud-Languedoc-Olivers-Travels
It’s no secret that France is always a hit holiday destination for the whole family. Superb food, breathtaking scenery, world-famous wine and, of course, romance. But here at Oliver’s Travels, we like to take it that little bit further to make your 2024 holiday extra special! Consider staying a few days for a luxurious retreat in one of our exceptional chateaux! We’ve sifted through our extensive collection and we’ve picked our top 24 chateaux to rent so you can have a taste of the good life!
Best for: Exploring the outdoors
Sleeps: 30
Prices from: £30pppn
Proudly set amongst seven hectares of parkland and woodland, this glorious 18th-century chateau is ideal for an unforgettable trip with the extended family. In the spring and summer, the gardens are bursting with colour and the nearby wild-flowering meadow is perfect for a lazy picnic in the sun. Hire bikes to explore the two local towns or take the kids to visit the neighbouring pony who resides in the field!
Top tip: If you’re planning a special event, why not rent some stunning Art-Deco jewellery from the gemologist owner to make your stay even more lavish?
Best for: Stylish interiors
Sleeps: 12
Prices from: £39pppn
Beautifully restored and lovingly decorated, Chateau Beau Village is a real chic retreat. With ensuite bathrooms in all six bedrooms, a monumental fireplace in the communal living room and an up-to-date sound system, the chateau is the perfect mix of old and new. Dine al fresco and admire the star-studded skies or take a relaxing dip in the heated pool. Surrounded by 25 acres of parkland, privacy is guaranteed while the nearby town of Montpazier is only a leisurely 2km walk away, giving you the best of both worlds!
Best for: Multiple families
Sleeps: 18-30
Prices from: £30pppn
From tennis courts and a private chef to a brand-new gym, at Chateau Arize you’ll be spoiled for choice! Set in the heart of the Natural Regional Park of the Ariège Pyrénées, outdoor activities such as golf, cycling, kayaking, fishing and horse-riding are in abundance amongst its lakes, mountains and forests. With many adjoining rooms, huge grounds to play in and a heated swimming pool, this chateau is the perfect place for large families. You won’t want to leave this French paradise but if you can tear yourself away, make sure to visit the medieval castle in the local town of Foix.
Best for: Sports and outdoor activities
Sleeps: 18
Prices from: £69pppn
Built in 1575, this Disney-style chateau is set in a lovely 5-acre park in the Cevennes mountains. For those looking for an active holiday, the chateau couldn’t be better placed. The possibilities are endless; with local hiking and cycling routes right on your doorstep, only 20 minutes from skiing and 30 minutes from a reservoir for water sports. Come back to the chateau after a long day of activities and enjoy a barbecue on the terrace.
Best for: Wine lovers
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £17pppn
This charming stone chateau is a peaceful haven nestled in the French countryside. Set in between Champagne, Burgundy and Chablis – three of the most famous wine regions in the world – dine al fresco and kick back with a glass of local wine and a view of the rolling hills. Get involved in relaxing country activities such as hiking, horse-riding, golfing or swimming in the nearby lake. Or enjoy some much-needed ‘me time’ at the nearest town of Bourbonne-les-Bains, which is known for its hot springs and spas.
Best for: Kids
Sleeps: 20
Prices from: £16pppn
Set in picturesque private grounds, you’ll feel right at home in Chateau de la Cheine. With extensive outdoor space and a large swimming pool, kids can play all day! Younger kids will love exploring the woodland and teenagers can enjoy a game of pool in the games room. Don’t miss out on a wonderful four-course dinner prepared by the delightful owners on request!
Best for: Peace and quiet
Sleeps: 20
Prices from: £41pppn
Situated on a wine estate, the recently renovated Chateau les Peintures is set amongst three hectares of peaceful parkland. Elegant interiors and breathtaking scenery make this the perfect place for a quiet retreat. If you fancy a trip away from this tranquil oasis, why not visit UNESCO classified Saint-Émilion where you can indulge in world-class restaurants that sit beside ancient ruins?
Best for: Local culture
Sleeps: 10-20
Prices from: £60pppn
Placed in a desirable countryside setting, this chateau is located in a quiet village that will have you living like a local. The stunning 17th-century masterpiece has been restored to its former glory, giving guests a glimpse of its ancient charm. The dedicated owners have created a variety of interesting tours with a friendly English-speaking guide so guests can learn about the history of the area. And if that isn’t enough, get involved in the French cooking lessons hosted by the talented local caterer!
Best for: Any time of year
Sleeps: 14
Prices from: £40pppn
This rural manor is settled in the heart of the beautiful Loire Valley region and makes for a perfect holiday all year round. In summer, you can sunbathe on the terrace, strike up a game on the tennis court and explore the local region. In winter, get competitive in the games room and snuggle up by the fire in the cosy living room. The atmospheric kitchen will act as a social hub for your group at any time of year and it’s perfect for cooking up a tasty family dinner.
Best for: Quirky interiors
Sleeps: 12
Prices from: £39pppn
Owned and decorated by a talented artist, this 17th-century chateau offers an arty and warming ambience. Originally owned by the Minister of Finances under Louis XIII and Louis XIV, this historic home is located near the Loire River where captivating views and outdoor activities can be enjoyed. The beguiling interiors and extensive grounds make for a quirky and private retreat that you’ll have a hard time topping next year!
Best for: Local amenities
Sleeps: 12
Prices from: £31pppn
This countryside chateau offers elegant accommodation within a superb location! The house has a spacious kitchen, a large swimming pool and beautiful grounds, and endless possibilities in the local village. With restaurants, bars, shops, a church, a weekly market and even a hairdresser for a bit of holiday pampering, you’ll have anything and everything you need.
Top tip: The local butcher provides excellent (and very affordable) catering and delivery service, so after a long day exploring you can appreciate the local cuisine from the comfort of your chateau!
Best for: Nature lovers
Sleeps: 20
Prices from: £39pppn
This enchanting chateau is set among one of France’s oldest wine-growing regions and benefits from a captivating view of neighbouring vineyards. Chateau Gaillac gazes over its rural setting of lofty Cedars and sits just back from the banks of the river la Tarn (where kids will enjoy a paddle!). Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as wild roe deer can be spotted drinking from the fountain at dawn and by evening owls and nightingales serenade alfresco diners.
Best for: Beaches
Sleeps: 10-14
Prices from: £55pppn
Fancy a beach holiday that mixes family fun with luxurious indulgence? Chateau Les Douves’ high ceilings, grand interiors and huge pool will give you a taste of the high life while kids can enjoy the local beaches. Embark on a 10-minute cycle to the golden sands of Fontenay-Sur-Mer or make a 10-minute car journey to local beaches with shallow waters perfect for little ones!
Best for: A day trip to Paris
Sleeps: 12-17
Prices from: £53pppn
This serene countryside chateau will feel like a home from home. Expect a blissful setting, comfortable interiors and a heated swimming pool for ultimate relaxation. Paris is only a 45-minute drive away so you can explore the busy yet enchanting capital before returning to your peaceful chateau. Kids will be pleased to know Disneyland Paris is only a short drive away too!
Best for: Weddings and events
Sleeps: 12 -32
Prices from: £33pppn
If you’re looking to host a grand event in 2024, the bewitching Chateau de Jaques is the perfect choice. Built in the 17th century on the foundations of a medieval castle, this chateau is layered with history and charm. Three original medieval towers stand tall on the grounds and with gardens designed by the same architect that created the gardens of Versailles, your guests will feel like royalty! Weddings can be conveniently held in the private chapel and followed by a slap-up meal prepared by the talented caterers.
Best for: A bit of everything
Sleeps: 10
Prices from: £69pppn
If you can’t decide what you want from your chateau holiday, don’t worry because Chateau Quatre Saisons has something for everyone! Delve into French history and take a 50-minute drive to visit historic sites such as Mont St Michel, Bayeux and the D-Day landing beaches; get active on local cycling routes using the chateau’s complimentary bikes; pop to the local market and get your hands on fresh produce such as local vegetables and live lobsters; take a leisurely hike all the way to the coast and admire the sea views or cook up a storm in the chateau’s well-equipped kitchen! This countryside retreat is a real crowd-pleaser that will keep even the fussiest guests occupied!
Best for: A touch of magic
Sleeps: 15-18
Prices from: £27pppn
When we say ‘why do ordinary?’ we really mean it. Chateau de Baloigne is set within the ruins of a medieval castle and is government-protected as a Historic Monument. Gaze over the medieval ruins from each of the six bedrooms, sleep under the stars on the rooftop terrace or explore the original dungeon dating back to the 12th century. You better pack your sandals because this one will really blow your socks off!
Best for: Country living
Sleeps: 10
Prices from: £38pppn
Experience rural French living at its finest in this 14th-century hunting lodge. Surrounded by farmland, this is ideal for anyone wanting to escape busy city life. Immerse yourself in the peaceful countryside, light up that BBQ aaaand relax. If you fancy a laid-back day out why not get involved in local activities, such as fishing?
Best for: Switching off
Sleeps: 13
Prices from: £33pppn
Chateau de Choisel comfortably sleeps 11 adults and two children in retro-chic settings, with plush furniture and antique pieces all over. The inside has barely changed since the 18th century, but outside your party will enjoy dipping in the pool and sinking into the bubbling hot tub. On balmy evenings, enjoy the backdrop of the grand chateau as you fire up the barbecue and dine alfresco.
Best for: Local produce
Sleeps: 15-21
Prices from: £50pppn
It’s not called Chateau Noble for nothing! This captivating castle was founded 400 years ago by a Lord using funds gifted to him for his service in war by King Louis XIII. Today, the dedicated owners preserve the history of the house and devote their attention to giving their guests an unforgettable experience. Even the ducks are treated like royalty in their very own duck pond chateau – aptly named ‘Duckingham Palace’! This unique stay offers an array of goodies produced on site and by local friends, including honey, jam, herbs and fruit. Nearby Samatan is world-renowned for its duck and foie-gras and is also home to one of the most famous markets in France. Get stuck into local culture and experience the real France at this southern gem.
Best for: Two-family getaways
Sleeps: 15
Prices from: £39pppn
Split into two wings that are interconnected by a grand music room, the glorious Chateau de Seyres is ideal for big groups that enjoy their own private spaces. Get the two sides of the house to converge in the music room for drinks and nibbles before dispersing around this sprawling manor. Exposed beams, wood panelling and antique furnishings give a sense of warmth or light one of the many open fires for atmospheric evenings.
Best for: Outdoor entertaining
Sleeps: 12
Prices from: £95pppn
Set amongst lush woodlands and vineyards, Chateau Vaucluse is a hidden gem in the Provencal countryside. Although the interiors are just as stunning, it’s the outdoor areas that make this chateau a real winner. The expansive grounds include pretty gardens, a private pool complete with a dining terrace, barbecue, sink and workspace – perfect for prepping meals outside.
Spend evenings gazing at incredible sunsets, feeling the warm breeze on your cheeks as you cheers with a glass of local wine. The charming local village runs a weekly market and the delightful brasserie and bar mean the entertaining can continue out of the chateau too! Time to get a group together and head to the south of France…
Best for: Day trips
Sleeps: 12 – 30
Prices from: £133pppn
This is the way to truly experience France at its finest. The historic Chateau Royal has been painstakingly restored and includes design and furnishings evocative of a time gone by. You can rent five bedrooms sleeping up to 12 guests, or rent the entire house with nine bedrooms that make space for 30!
During your stay, you’ll have breakfast, a butler, concierge services and daily housekeeping are all included in the price. What’s more, this stunning home is just 35km from Paris, meaning a day trip to the capital (and coming home laden with shopping bags) is totally doable. Day trips to Monet’s Gardens in Giverny, Château de Chantilly and even the vineyards of Champagne can also be organised from the chateau, giving you access to the full French experience.
Best for: Princess-pretending
Sleeps: 10
Prices from: £46pppn
Last but certainly not least in this list of gorgeous chateaux to rent, the light and bright Chateau Seyches is a glorious place to spend a summer in the Dordogne. The characterful turreted towers of the home give an indication of the home’s classic French charm. Inside you’ll find stained-glass windows, homely furnishings and and impressive dining room. Or, spend most of your time splashing about in the lovely pool on sunny days, made especially exciting with the view of the pretty home in the background.
What about those, then?! If we’ve inspired you to book a 2024 French getaway, why not check out Oliver’s Travels’ full collection of stunning chateaux to rent? Our friendly concierge team are always happy to help – give them a ring and they’ll do all the fiddly bits for you!
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