Chateau Grilliere
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Overview
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Amid the dreamy landscapes of southern France, near the Canal du Midi and Black Mountains, this elegant 19th century château has been one of the stars of the British television series, Escape to the Château DIY.
As avid viewers will know, the dedicated owners have put all their heart into the restoration of their beautiful château. After months and months of careful planning and exceptional designs, they have created a wonderful abode, ideal for special holidays and French wedding celebrations.
Upstairs, each of the four themed suites have been gracefully styled and feature hand-made touches such as canopies over two of the king-size beds and an exquisite Chinoiserie panel in the oriental-themed bedroom. The master suite’s wrought iron balcony is a romantic spot for a glass of local wine whilst the Italian marble walk-through shower is sure to impress you in its en suite bathroom. Downstairs, a fifth bedroom has the most magnificent ceiling, silk curtains and striking pieces of antique furniture.
Soak up the romantic ambience in the sophisticated lounge, enjoy an aperitif by the stylish bar and feast together in the welcoming dining room. Downstairs there’s also a snug with Smart TV, a relaxing orangerie with pool table, an honesty bar and a library with lots of information about the local area. A chalk board will show you what events or festivities may be taking place during your stay and the hospitable owners are on hand, just across the road, for anything else you may need.
Outside, the vast grounds are a haven for wildlife with ancient trees, spring bluebells and a lovely front terrace for al-fresco dining and lounging by the plunge pool. Use the château’s bikes to cycle by a little river to the local town or it’s under a ten-minute drive away by car. This 14th century bastide town is home to one of France’s best markets on a Saturday morning!
In a region known for its excellent vineyards, the owners can organise wine tours and help you make the most of this historic and beautiful region. Look out for vide-greniers taking place at the weekend, hire boats, walk or cycle along the Canal du Midi or swim, canoe or pedalo in the wonderful lake at Bassin de Saint-Ferréol, just 7km away.
Then there’s walking in the Black Mountains, visiting the colourful riverside houses of Castres, the grand city of Carcassonne as well as enchanting villages and historic market towns. Also within an hour from the rose tinted city of Toulouse, this is a perfect destination for a restful stay in this alluring part of southern France.
What you should know…
- A car is certainly needed as there is little public transport in the local area
- The local town is about a 10-minute drive away. You can also cycle there with one of the château's bikes, following the tow path by a little river for about an hour
- We love the honesty bar - there's a price list so just help yourselves and make a note so payment can be arranged directly with the owners.
This home is a part of our Great Value and Heritage Collection!
This is a historic home, and as such:
- It has probably been standing for over 100 years, which means it's full of historic value and charm but it may also have one or two quirks!
- Some of the decor and furnishings may not be brand new, but that should not detract from your holiday experience in this unique setting that allows you to take a step back in time!
Property Features
Château Interiors
Ground Floor
- Living room
- Dining room
- Library
- TV lounge
- Kitchen, well-equipped including dishwasher, Lacanche double oven, gas hob, microwave, mixer, blender etc.
- Orangerie with pool table
- Bedroom with super king-size double (or twin) and en suite bathroom with shower
First Floor
- Master bedroom suite with super king-size four-poster double bed, separate sitting area, mini-fridge and balcony with garden view. En suite bathroom with walk-in shower and two sinks
- Bedroom with super king-size double bed, mini-fridge and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom with super king-size double bed with canopy and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom with super king-size double bed with canopy and en suite bathroom with walk-in shower
There is also a mini-fridge in the landing between the above two bedrooms
Outside Grounds
- Plunge pool (3.5x2m, depth: 0.7m) with pool safety alarm
- Gas barbecue
- Millstone with charcoal
- Al-fresco dining area
- Boules set
- Bikes (x5)
- Vast grounds (1.5 hectares)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- TV with English channels and Netflix
- Mini-fridges (x3)
- Honesty bar
- Pool table
- Boules set
- Washing machine
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau GrilliereChâteau Grilliere can be found in the Haute-Garonne department of southern France, between the great cities of Carcassonne and Toulouse.
It’s a 5 to 10-minute drive to the local town or use the château’s bikes to cycle by the narrow river all the way to the town in about an hour. Here you will find a good range of restaurants, cafes, shops and useful supermarkets. This 14th century bastide town is also home to a wonderful medieval market hall which hosts a Saturday morning market, known to be one of the best in France!
Market lovers should also look out for vide-greniers that often take place in local villages and at the weekend. There are also many atmospheric festivals and music events across the region in the summer – the hospitable owners are on hand to let you know what’s on during your stay. They can also arrange wine tours and tastings for you in some of the region’s magnificent vineyards.
Just a ten-minute drive away, the lake at Bassin de Saint-Ferréol is stunning and a perfect place for gorgeous walks as well as summer activities such as pedaloes, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding and swimming. There are restaurants in the area or take a picnic and find a secluded spot by the lake’s shore. Other activities near the lake include mountain biking, mini-golf and a tree-top activity course.
A little further away, Bassin de Lampy (33km) is another idyllic spot for swimming and walking in the foothills of the Black Mountains. Indeed, La Montagne Noire is an incredible area of forests, lakes, streams, vineyards, enchanting villages and historic castles.
Head to the attractive town of Castelnaudary (15km) to admire its bassin and of course the Canal du Midi which passes through. There are boat excursions along the canal as well as some lovely walks and cycle rides. Stop off in a restaurant and try the regional speciality, cassoulet, that is said to originate from the town.
The grand city of Carcassonne can be reached in under an hour by car. Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site and be amazed by its beauty as you explore its medieval fortress and historic lanes.
There are so many more beautiful villages, interesting towns and impressive cities across this part of southern France. From the colourful riverside houses in Castres (34km) to the lovely markets in Mirepoix (50km) and Limoux (56km). Not forgetting the fascinating city of Toulouse (50km), also named as ‘La Ville Rose’, yet another brilliant day out during your stay.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Carcassonne
(52km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Toulouse
(62km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Castelnaudary
(16km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
(6km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local town and surrounding area
(5 to 10-minute drive ) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Nr local town
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf de Castres-Gourjade
(40km) |
||
Region
Languedoc-Roussillon is one of those areas of France where you can feel like you’re totally cut off from the rest of the country. Commercial tourism has been very slow to capitalise on the region, meaning you can still enjoy a slice of authentic French rural life at its finest. A mixture of landscapes also makes it a great place to visit, with a good stretch of coastline offering a totally different experience to more bucolic interiors. Whatever you’re looking for, our range of villas and chateaux in Languedoc means you can get exactly the kind of holiday you want with accommodation that’s perfectly tailored to you, your friends and your family.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesThis part of southern France has something to appeal to all ages with its natural beauty and fascinating history.
Only 7km from the château is the stunning lake at Bassin de Saint-Ferréol. A wonderful area for walking and nature-exploring, there are watersports on the lake in the summer (such as pedalos, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding) and it’s a popular spot for picnics and swimming (with a lifeguard on some summer afternoons). The Canal du Midi museum can also be found near the bassin.
Heading to the foothills of the magnificent Black Mountains, you can also swim in Bassin de Lampy, about half an hour away, or walk through the glorious woodland surrounding it.
This is a great area for cycling too – there is a tow path by a little river which runs close to the château and leads to the local town, taking around an hour. You will find plenty of cycling trails alongside the Canal du Midi as well – the owners can help advise on the best spots.
There are also boat trips along the Canal du Midi, some departing from Castelnaudary around 15km away, as well as more lovely walks. This region offers horse-riding opportunities as well.
Children of all ages will be fascinated by the great city of Carcassonne – look out for family-friendly guided tours to make the most of your visit.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Cycling
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Boules/Petanque
- Child-Safe Pool
- Bicycles Provided
Services Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Pre-Stocked Fridge Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Breakfast Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
- Babysitting 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 included at this property:
- Welcome hamper
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
- Breakfast (fresh fruit, muesli, yoghurt, freshly baked croissants and pastries, bread and cheeses, plus hot choices of pancakes and eggs with smoked salmon on request)
- Honesty bar
- Private chef
- Extra cleaning
- Shopping
- Wine tours
- Historic tours
- Babysitting
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
Celebrate in the enchanting surroundings of this late 19th century château with its delightful owne...
Read moreEvent information
Celebrate in the enchanting surroundings of this late 19th century château with its delightful owners, stars of Escape to the Château DIY, who have beautifully restored this elegant abode.
Say your vows under the cedar tree in the wonderful garden before wining and dining with loved ones on the vast and sunny terrace in front of the grand château. For more intimate events, you may prefer the romantic grand hallway where an atmospheric wedding reception can also be set up for a smaller party.
With nearby vineyards and gorgeous market towns selling all sorts of regional delicacies, allow your guests to be served a wedding feast to remember in this glorious part of southern France.
Wedding Reception
Set up an atmospheric wedding feast for up to 50 guests on the vast terrace in front of the château. Alternatively, if you prefer your event surrounded by the château’s historic interiors, the grand hallway has space for 20 people to enjoy a sit-down meal.
If celebrating outside, it’s advisable to hire some form of cover to provide shade for hot summer days but also just in case it rains.
Afterwards, dance the evening away on the terrace or there is a lawn area in the garden that could also be set up. Loud music should stop around 1.00 a.m. out of respect to the neighbours.
Wedding Ceremony
The ceremony will usually take place under the beautiful cedar tree in the garden, with room for up to 50 guests.
An English-speaking celebrant can be provided.
Where to Stay
Up to 10 people can stay across the château’s five bedrooms, including the grand master suite.
There is also a 14-bedroom château-hotel around a 5-minute drive away which could be a good option for further guests wanting to stay close by, as well as a gite just across the road – all subject to availability.
The owners can help arrange mini-bus hire if needed.
Wedding Planning
Guests are welcome to bring their own wedding planner. The hospitable owners are also on hand to help if they can and they can provide details of local wedding suppliers.
Catering
Wedding catering will need to be provided by a professional catering company and payment should be made directly to them.
The owners can however provide catering for the day before and after the event, for up to 25 guests, and they can also prepare a delicious breakfast for up to 10 guests staying in the château.
Wedding Packages
The wedding package is from Friday to Monday and includes use of five bedrooms (10 guests) at the château, including breakfast.
All extra such as flowers, music, chairs, tables, covers/shade, lighting, dance floors, photography etc need to be arranged separately. The owners can provide details of local suppliers and liaise with them on request, but all payments will need to be made directly to the supplier (and deposits are usually required).
Other Information
Weddings can take place between May and September (other months on request).
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 | €1000 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 | €1000 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. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes, except Christmas/NY when a supplement of €500 applies (for heating and firewood), payable locally. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed once every 7 days. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes. 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 opening dates? | 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. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings and special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. Stag/hen parties are not allowed. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 10 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 25th 2024 - Jun 1st 2024 | £2,978 |
| Jun 1st 2024 - Jul 1st 2024 | £3,474 |
| Jul 1st 2024 - Sep 1st 2024 | £3,971 |
| Sep 1st 2024 - Dec 23rd 2024 | £3,474 |
| Christmas & New Year | £4,963 |
| Jan 6th 2025 - May 31st 2025 | £2,978 |
| May 31st 2025 - Jun 30th 2025 | £3,474 |
| Jun 30th 2025 - Aug 31st 2025 | £3,971 |
| Aug 31st 2025 - Oct 27th 2025 | £3,474 |
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?
We have been here now for a very busy three years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I think i...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
We have been here now for a very busy three years.
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I think it was the lovely grounds that grabbed us immediately! Then when we entered the château we were both enchanted by the feel of the place - it had been empty for nearly five years but it still had a really warm and friendly feeling. We could instantly see its potential too. At the time it was looking very sorry for itself with wallpaper peeling off the walls, rotten panelling and very ancient plumbing and electricity. We couldn’t wait to get started and we’ve been working on it ever since.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
It was built in 1895 by Paul Grillières, who was a farmer and owned all the land around the château. He and later generations of his family lived in the house until 2007 when, sadly the grandmother died. The house and estate was left to the grandchildren and divided up. The château was then sold to a French family called Chanal, who lived in it for six years until they moved to Canada and then the house was empty for nearly five years before we bought it in March 2018.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Not yet!
For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really…
Must do?
Go and visit the lovely little villages in the area - they are beautiful and if you go to St Félix (about five minutes up the hill) then there is an amazing panorama. A day visit to Carcassonne is a must and we would recommend Toulouse - the Pink City because of the terracotta - it really is a beautiful and vibrant place. Albi is another lovely place and whilst you are there a visit to the Toulouse Lautrec Museum. The coast is only an hour and a bit away too!
Must eat?
There are some great restaurants in the area and full details are in a folder in the house - booking essential. Whilst you are here it would be a crime not to call into a vineyard or two for a tasting!
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
We will leave tips on where the ‘vide greniers’ are going to be whilst you are staying (they are in different villages around the area on Saturdays and Sundays). It’s well worth a stroll around those to see if you can find any treasures. It’s also well worth a visit to Revel market on Saturday mornings or Mirepoix market on Monday mornings if you have time.
We are blessed in being located where we are as there is so much to see and do - the coast, the Montagne Noire, the Pyrenèes, Carcassonne (the second most visited place for tourists in France), the vineyards of the Cabardès, the Minervois and the Corbières - we would recommend really planning your trips out (look at all the information that is left in the library for you) and plan your week. If you don’t manage to do everything you want to you’ll just have to come back again!
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