Chateau Coraline

The stunning Château Coraline and its eight acres of grounds represents the epitome of French elegance and style in the heart of the world-famous Sancerre wine region. By preserving this gem’s history while tastefully decorating with chic, contemporary touches and mid-century interiors, Château Coraline is a testament to the French art of living. 

Last rebuilt by Napoleon’s Minister of the Interior in 1800 for his daughter, guests entering Château Coraline will marvel at the results of a two-year renovation that has resulted in a breathtaking blend of heritage charm and sleek modern taste. This truly is a timeless masterpiece contained within historic walls – guests can expect 200-year old oak floors and 19th century furnishings alongside 1960s Murano chandeliers, mid-century velvet sofas and stylish mirror tables.

With 1,500m2 of living space spread over three floors, including four living rooms, an opulent dining room, expansive kitchen, several majestic staircases, dancing cellar and a farmhouse annexe featuring a large exercise space, this is a château with charm and character in every inch of floorspace. Boasting 24 bedrooms, most featuring queen-sized beds, and 22 bathrooms, Château Coraline graciously accommodates up to 47 guests. There are flexible rates for smaller groups wishing to stay in fewer bedrooms in this beautiful abode.   

Eight acres of enclosed grounds are verdant with bicentennial trees and meandering walking trails – not to mention the 25m-long saltwater swimming pool (heated) built into natural stone. Hidden away in a small grove not far from the pool guests will also find a sauna and outdoor Nordic bath, both wood fired.

The ancient hilltop village of Sancerre is just a 5-minute drive away with its cobbled lanes, inviting restaurants, wine-bars, Saturday morning market and glorious views of the surrounding Sancerre vineyards. Near the banks of the Loire, Saint-Satur is another idyllic spot and the perfect place for canoeing and kayaking alongside cycle rides following the Loire à Vélo.

Even closer to home is the Loire canal and its cycling/walking towpath where you can admire the historic system of bridges and locks, ending perhaps with a hearty meal at the traditional French inn overlooking the canal only 1km away.

As well as wine-tasting across Sancerre, Pouilly Fumé and Ménétou Salon wineries, visit pretty riverside villages and historic towns such as La Charité-sur-Loire, Apremont-sur-Allier, Nevers and Orléans. You could even venture to Burgundy with Vézelay around 86km by car or consider spending the day in Paris which is only 1 hour 50 minutes by train!