Le Domaine des Hiboux
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Overview
Whether you yearn a peaceful getaway in stunning natural surroundings or wish to spend family time on cycle rides and by glorious sandy beaches, Le Domaine des Hiboux offers ample space and authentic charm for up to 21 guests, just a short drive from the Atlantic coast.
Set in a 100-acre estate, surrounded by woodland walks and cycling trails, this is wonderful for wildlife lovers – look out for owls, deer, rabbits and red squirrels as you stroll around the picturesque domaine or relax by the fishing pond – there are a couple of rods you can borrow. The heated swimming pool is also a delight or spend time with loved ones cooking up a feast by the barbecue with delicious produce bought from local markets.
The origins of the domaine date as far back as the 14th century and there are three houses where guests can stay – the elegant 4-bedroom château and two inviting guesthouses. In the main château, sleeping 8 guests, rooms have been sensitively restored, thus creating a traditional and warm ambience with beautiful windows allowing light to flood into the home. A guesthouse by the swimming pool offers further charming accommodation for eight guests whilst a third house near the entrance, the most modern in terms of interiors, is perfect for another small family or group of friends. All three homes are rented together allowing guests to benefit from full exclusivity of this marvellous estate.
Hop on the château’s six bikes and head off for cycle rides through the Marais, some of France’s best preserved wetlands and also an exceptional place for bird-watching, long nature walks and canoeing trips. Cycle as far as the Atlantic coast, perhaps visit the bustling morning market in Pornic or Les Moutiers-en-Retz and discover sandy beaches for a day by the ocean.
Further afield, learn about regional salt production on the idyllic island of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, also much loved for its stunning beaches, cycling trails and shellfish digging. Or head north to the historic city of Nantes with its artistic vibe and fantastic food scene.
Then there’s the Loire valley and its châteaux and vineyards – bring back a bottle or two to enjoy on your veranda as you gather with family and friends back at Le Domaine des Hiboux.
What you should know…
- The domaine features a 4-bedroom château (8 guests) and two separate guest houses, one with four bedrooms (8 guests) and one with two bedrooms (3-5 guests including sofa-bed/extra bed). Please see the Features tab for details on the layout.
- There is Wi-Fi in the château and one of the guesthouses only – it can be quite slow but it is usually good enough to be able to watch Netflix etc.
- If travelling with children, be aware that there is a fishing pond in the grounds (there are a couple of fishing rods you can borrow!).
Property Features
Main Château Interiors (8 guests)
Ground Floor
- Drawing room with grand piano
- Living room with TV
- Dining room with open fire
- Open-plan kitchen, well-equipped with table for up to 8 guests
- Laundry room
- Shower room
- WC (x2)
First Floor (via stairs or lift)
- Library
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twins) and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twins) and en suite bathroom with bath and WC
There are two single beds that can be added to bedrooms for two extra children on request – please enquire
Guest House I Interiors (near swimming pool, 8 guests)
Ground Floor
- Living and dining room
- Games room/pool house
- Kitchen, well-equipped
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and separate bathroom with bath/shower and WC
- WC (x2)
First Floor
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed (160x200cm)
- Bedroom with twin beds (90x200cm each)
- Bedroom with double bed (140x200cm)
- Bathroom with bath/shower and WC
Guest House II Interiors (near entrance of domaine, 3-5 guests)
Ground Floor
- Living-dining room with double sofa-bed
- Kitchen
- WC
First Floor
- Bedroom with king-size double bed (can be split into twins)
- Bedroom with single bed (an extra roll-away bed can be added on request)
- Bathroom with jacuzzi, shower and WC
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (14x7m, depth: 1.2-1.6m) set at 24 degrees with electric safety cover. Open approximately mid-April to early October
- Al-fresco terrace with charcoal barbecue
- Gas barbecue
- Boules
- Private estate (100 acres)
- Woodland walks and cycling trails
- Fishing Pond (and rods)
- Bikes (x6)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi (Château and Guest House I)
- Heating
- Lift (main villa)
- TV with Netflix and Disney + (Château and Guest House I)
- TV and DVD player (Guest House II)
- DVD library
- Nintento Wii (and a couple of games)
- Library with English books
- Computer and printer
- Piano
- Fishing rods
- Boules
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Le Domaine des HibouxLe Domaine des Hiboux is situated in the heart of the Marais in the Loire-Atlantique department, around 40km south-west of Nantes and the Loire estuary and only a short drive from the Atlantic coast.
Within the 100-acre domaine there are cycle and walking trails through the woodland as well as a pond where fishing is permitted. It’s a paradise for nature lovers – look out for red squirrels, owls, deer, rabbits and you may even see a kingfisher. The surrounding Marais wetlands are also wonderful for bird-watching and an ideal area for cycling, canoeing and long nature walks.
The Atlantic coast nearby is stunning and offers a range of experiences for everyone. Les Moutiers-en-Retz, around 14km away, has a fantastic sandy beach or continue north up the Côte de Jade for more blue-flag beaches, as far as Pointe Saint-Gildas, an area of incredible natural beauty with some excellent coastal walks. Amble around the harbour at Pornic (24km), take a boat trip along the coast, enjoy a picnic on the beach and admire traditional Breton pottery at Faiencerie de Pornic. La Bernerie-en-Retz is a delightful former fishing village with vast sandy beaches, watersports and a sea lake for swimming even when the tide is out.
Crossing over to the Vendée department, learn all about salt production on the picturesque island of Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, also known for its idyllic beaches and dunes, shellfish digging, cycling trails, watersports and other outdoor activities.
A trip to one of the food markets of the region is a must during your time here – look out for markets in nearby Machecoul, only 6km away, on a Wednesday and Saturday morning and others in Challans, Pornic and Les Moutiers-en-Retz amongst many other places.
Another wonderful aspect of this location is the proximity to the Loire valley for wine-tasting and to visit some of the impressive châteaux near Nantes. Indeed, Nantes itself is a brilliant day out, on the banks of the Loire river and with a rich heritage as well as an artistic vibe. Food-lovers will adore the many fashionable restaurants and there are some amazing markets including the historic Talensac market which dates back to the 1930s, a particular must if you adore seafood.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Nantes Atlantique Airport
(35km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
La Rochelle
(150km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Machecoul
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small village
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local village
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Machecoul
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Machecoul
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
La Bernerie-en-Retz
(17km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Blue Green Pornic
(26km) |
||
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesHow wonderful to stay in a 100-acre estate with picturesque walks through the woodland, cycling trails and a fishing pond. Furthermore, in the heart of the Marais, there are so many cycling paths, nature walks, bird spotting opportunities and canoeing trips just a short distance from your holiday home.
The beaches of the Atlantic coast are just a short drive away. Les Moutiers-en-Retz is home to a brilliant sandy beach which has been awarded for its cleanliness and there are many more blue-flag beaches along the Côte de Jade further north. When the tide is out, head to the sea lake at La Bernerie-en-Retz for swimming. Look out for sailing boat excursions departing from Pornic.
Noirmoutier-en-l'Île is another lovely day trip for families – learn about salt production, partake in a range of watersports, cycle along its many trails, dig for shellfish or simply have fun on one of the vast sandy beaches.
Other fun days out include a tree-top activity centre near Pornic, the Legendia Parc with its wild animals and Océarium Croisic, just over an hour away.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Beach Nearby
- <1hr to Airport
- Watersports
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Xbox/Playstation/Wii
- Boules/Petanque
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- DVD
Services Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Maid Service Available
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- Babysitting / childcare services
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Extra cleaning
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a hig...
Read moreEvent information
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes (changed once every 7 nights). |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes and mid-stay cleaning for stays of 7+ nights also included. However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included up to approximately 24C. Pool can be heated to an additional 3-4 degrees for a supplement of €350 per week payable locally. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately mid-April to early October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Changeover day | 2022: Saturday. 2023: Friday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties and other special events are not allowed. |
| Internet access? | There is Wi-Fi in the château and one of the guesthouses only – it can be quite slow but it is usually good enough to be able to watch Netflix etc. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The domaine features a 4-bedroom château (8 guests) and two separate guest houses, one with four bedrooms (8 guests) and one with two bedrooms (3-5 guests including sofa-bed/extra bed). Please see the Features tab for details on the layout. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Highchair and cot are available on request. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 20 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Oct 1st 2022 - Dec 24th 2022 | £11,072 |
| Dec 24th 2022 - Jan 1st 2023 | £15,097 |
| Jan 1st 2023 - Apr 1st 2023 | £15,097 |
| Easter Season | £13,085 |
| Apr 15th 2023 - Apr 29th 2023 | £15,097 |
| Apr 29th 2023 - May 27th 2023 | £11,072 |
| May 27th 2023 - Jul 1st 2023 | £13,085 |
| Jul 1st 2023 - Sep 2nd 2023 | £15,097 |
| Sep 2nd 2023 - Sep 23rd 2023 | £13,085 |
| Sep 23rd 2023 - Dec 23rd 2023 | £11,072 |
| Dec 23rd 2023 - Apr 3rd 2024 | £15,097 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
• How long have you owned the property?
Since 1999
• What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
My parents had been looking in t...
Read moreOwner Profile
• How long have you owned the property?
Since 1999
• What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
My parents had been looking in the area for many years and stumbled upon this place. The architecture of the house, the layout, the spaciousness of the estate with its own woods and pond for fishing all played a role in them loving it. The place had burnt down and my parents took it upon them to restore it.
• Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The estate was first owned by a French Noble family in 1368 but it wasn’t until their daughter married in 1405 that the first fortified castle was built. This castle’s remains are still on the property, in the form of the base of the two towers as well as the moat at the front of the estate.
The property then passed on to the Duc of Retz and was subsequently joined with a neighbouring estate by Louis XVI; thus becoming the Chatellenie de la Salle.
During the 18th Century it passed on to the Mayor of the town before being bought by a local noble family. The castle was burnt down by the republicans in 1794 and wasn’t rebuilt until 1805 where it stood until it suffered an accidental fire at the end of the 20th century. In 1999 it was purchased by its current owner who renovated and refurbished all the houses on the property to their original charm.
• For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
- Must do?
Go to the beach and the local markets.
Go shrimping or searching for clams at low tide.
- Must eat?
Local fresh seafood and fish – try some of the local restaurants.
Oysters from le port du collet, Oyster farm.
- Must see?
Planete sauvage safari park.
The machines de l’ile in Nantes.
The city of Nantes.
The puy du fou (75min drive).
Le marais salant where they make salt.
The terra botanica in Angers.
• What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Go to the local markets between 9h30 and 10H15 am in order to avoid the crowds and get the best produce. If you’re a duck (food) lover, get your hands on one of the world famous Canard de Madame Burgaud whose slaughterhouse is in Challans. Go to the beach at low tide and fish for shrimp and shell clams or at high tide to swim.
Reviews
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Highly recommend
Everything went very smoothly, the property was even better than the photos suggested - masses of space, well equipped and comfortable. The owner was very helpful with any small problems. I would highly recommend the Domaine for a large family group wanting two or three houses together. Lovely pool.
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