Chateau Du Monastere
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Listen to the church bells from the local village as you relax in the idyllic and historical surroundings of Château du Monastère in the Berry region, in the ...
Read moreOverview
Listen to the church bells from the local village as you relax in the idyllic and historical surroundings of Château du Monastère in the Berry region, in the heart of the Loire. Set in 32 acres of stunning gardens and parkland, with a heated pool in the château’s orchard, the eight bedroom château offers beauty, serenity and elegance.
The château was built in 1835 on the site where there used to be a Benedictine monastery and the château's orchard dates back to this time. Great care has been taken to ensure it retains its history and character whilst offering modern luxury living standards. The eight bedrooms have been designed gracefully using colourful rich fabrics, warm tones, beautiful furnishings and bright, modern bathrooms. There are three double bedrooms on the ground floor, all with en-suite bathrooms including walk-in showers and a further five double bedrooms upstairs, four of them en-suite and two of them adjoining, therefore offering rooms to suit travelling companions of all ages.
The cosy ground floor living room is a perfect spot for relaxation or head upstairs to browse the vast selection of books in the library, also a comfortable salon for guests to enjoy. The rustic French kitchen has everything you need to prepare fine local cuisine and there is also the option to hire a private chef to cook for you in the evenings and serve you memorable meals in the grand dining room.
The heated swimming pool and terrace is set in the vast gardens and parkland where you will also find shady trees for lounging in the sun, ideal picnics spots and so much room for kids to play in the open space. Bikes are provided for guests plus there is boules and a mini gym for the more active. The setting is truly idyllic and it will feel like your own patch of paradise.
The local village is a short walk or bike ride away where you can pick up fresh bread in the mornings. Head a little further to other local villages and towns where you will find vibrant French markets within a ten minutes drive, stunning châteaux open to visitors as well as the historic cathedral city of Bourges, just 35km by car. The magical gardens of Apremont sur Allier are also within half an hour and offer a delightful day out discovering flowers, trees and plants from all over the world.
Sport lovers are spoilt for choice with a great range of activities nearby including fishing, horse-riding, windsurfing and some lovely cycle rides along the banks of the Loire or canal tow paths, following the ‘Loire a Velo’ routes.
Whether you plan to explore the rich culture of the Loire or simply unwind in the glorious surroundings of your holiday home, Château du Monastère will provide wonderful experiences and memories for everyone for years to come.
Please note that advertised prices are for 16 guests. An additional four children may be accommodated by prior agreement with the owner and supplements may apply. Alternatively, additional adults may also be considered on a case by case basis, subject to supplements.
What you should know…
- The heated swimming pool is set by the orchard in the beautiful gardens, a little walk from the château: children must be supervised at all times
- The château sleeps up to sixteen comfortably, with the possibility of accommodating up to 4 additional guests for an extra charge. Please refer to the 'Features' tab for full accommodation details
- If staying on the 14th July, Bastille Day, expect a magical professional firework display in the château parkland often followed by dining and dancing - please enquire for more details.
- Bookings in low season, typically during the months of January, February, March, September and October are on request only. Please enquire for a tailor made quote
- Please note that the following out of season dates are available, and pricing is on request:
06.01.2024-10.02.2024
09.03.2024-29.03.2024
26.10.2024-20.12.2024
- Please note that the following out of season dates are available, and pricing is on request:
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 Interior (750 sq m) - 16 pax
Please note an additional four children may be accommodated in the existing rooms (using one of the doubles in the first floor twin room and two additional single beds elsewhere). This is by prior agreement with the owner and supplements may apply. Alternatively, additional adults may also be considered on a case by case basis, subject to supplements.
Ground Floor
- Kitchen-diner with including dishwasher, three ovens, microwave and kitchen equipment
- Dining room
- Lounge
- Bedroom 1 with king size bed (150cm x 200cm) and extra large en-suite bathroom with bathtub and walk-in shower
- Bedroom 2 with king size bed (150cm x 200cm) and en-suite bathroom with seat,bathtub and walk-in shower
- Bedroom 3 with king size bed (150cm x 200cm) with bathroom with bathtub and walk-in shower in adjoining room
First Floor
- Lounge/Library
- Bedroom 4 with queen size bed (160cm x 190cm) - shares bathroom with bedroom 5, ideal for families
- Bedroom 5 with standard double bed (140cm x 190cm) - shares bathroom with bedroom 4, ideal for families
- Shared bathroom with shower and free-standing bath
- Bedroom 6 with 2 x double beds (140cm x 190cm) and en-suite shower and free-standing bath (one extra bed available)
- Bedroom 7 with super king size bed (180cm x 200cm), en-suite shower and free-standing bath
- Bedroom 8 with super king size bed (184cm x 210cm), en-suite shower and free-standing bath
Note: 2 additional single beds are available to be placed in bedrooms as required
Outside Grounds
- 32 acres of enclosed parkland, orchard and fields
- Private heated swimming pool (size: 10m x 5m/depth 0.5m-2m/opening times: 9am to 7.30pm) with rigid security cover
- Boules pitch
- Paved al-fresco dining area with BBQ
- Outhouse with Kettler Delta XL mini gym
Facilities
- Wi-Fi (ground floor only)
- Heating
- Satellite TV
- Library
- Hairdryers
- Board games and jigsaws
- Bikes
- Barbecue
- Sunbeds and parasols
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau Du MonastereSet in 32 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland, including the former monastery's original orchard, it's just a short stroll from the small local village (1km) where you can pick up your morning bread.
Just over two hours from Paris, this is a sleepy and peaceful area and there are some wonderful towns to explore locally. You will be sure to find a vibrant French market nearly every day at one of the nearby villages or towns within a fifteen minutes drive.
The area of Berry offers an extremely diverse choice of tourist attractions, including the seven secret gardens, most of which are within an hours drive of the chateau. The magical gardens of Apremont sur Allier (25km) are particularly noteworthy and offer a delightful day discovering flowers, trees and plants from all over the world.
Sport lovers are spoilt for choice with a great range of activities nearby including fishing, golf, horse-riding, windsurfing and some lovely cycle rides along the banks of the Loire or canal tow paths, following the ‘Loire a Velo’ routes. The world famous racing circuit of Magny Cours (44km) is just forty minutes by car, a definite must for Formula One fans and you will find some brilliant go-karting here as well.
The exquisite cathedral city of Bourges (34km) can be easily reached within half an hour and if you visit in the spring be sure to check out the city’s music festival in April. The city is rich in historical and architectural delights and you can spend a very pleasant day wandering around its narrow cobbled streets discovering pretty cafes in charming squares or exploring the city’s peaceful gardens. Nevers (33km) is also an interesting town to visit with stylish shops and lovely walks or boat trips along the Loire.
Whether you are a wine lover or just appreciate beautiful scenery, the wine region and village of Sancerre (55km) should also be visited. The medieval hilltop town has some delightful cafes, bistros and wine-tasting caves or head out to one of the outstanding vineyards to try one of France’s most popular wines.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Tours Val de Loire Airport / Aéroport de Limoges
(199 km/225 km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Bourges/Nevers
(34km/33km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Bar/Pub |
(1km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
(20km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Bourges/Nevers
(34km/33km ) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(5km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Calais
(5h 30mins) |
||
Region
A region doesn’t get to be called “The Garden of France” without being pretty special, and the Loire Valley is just as luscious and beautiful as its nickname would suggest. There’s countless acres of beautiful woods, vineyards and farmland that produce some of France’s revered ingredients and delicacies, and a wealth of history and beautiful architecture that demands and rewards exploration. Whether you’re heading off with the family, friends, or both, our fantastic portfolio of Loire Valley villas and chateaux means you’ll find fantastic, comfortable and quirky accommodation no matter your preferences.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesIssoudun, an hour away, is great for canoeing excursions along the Théols river, horse-riding close by or pleasant walks through the picturesque Parc François Mitterrand on the river’s edge.
Yet more natural beauty can be found at Jardins des Marais de Bourges where you can follow the paths along the water’s edge as you stroll through this beautiful area. Not to mention a number of parks in the heart of Bourges with children’s play areas, music on summer Sunday afternoons and plenty of places for a picnic, perhaps after picking up all sorts of goodies from one of Bourges’ weekly markets.
Under an hour’s drive away, you can visit the beautiful city of Nevers. Here, there are plenty of sights to see such as the Nevers Cathedral, the Ducal Palace and the Triumphal gate. This city also boasts many parks with playgrounds for the children to enjoy as well as an indoor swimming pool and many museums.
Vierzon is a picturesque historic town and hosts a vibrant Estivales du Canal in July and August with a number of outdoor concerts. On certain afternoons in the summer months you can hire little boats along the picturesque Berry canal.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Go-Karting
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Boules/Petanque
- Bikes
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Bicycles Provided
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
Services Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Babysitting Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Chef/Cook Available
- Babysitting Available
- Welcome pack included
- Transfers 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:
- Complimentary welcome pack (including: bread, cheese, milk, butter, beers, wine, condiments and household basics)
- Private chef for evening meals (€30 per adult / €15 per child under 12)
- Babysitting service
- 7-seater carrier for local transport / taxi service
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
Weddings can be arranged by Oliver's Travels at this beautiful chateau - please contact us for furth...
Read moreEvent information
Weddings can be arranged by Oliver's Travels at this beautiful chateau - please contact us for further details.
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 | €1500 paid by bank transfer to the owner at least one month before arrival and refunded approximately 2 weeks after departure, subject to inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €1500 paid by bank transfer to the owner at least one month before arrival and refunded approximately 2 weeks after departure, subject to inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, including pool towels. There is a surcharge of €25/week for each child above 16 guests. |
| Pets welcome? | Well behaved dogs may be permitted, subject to prior agreement with the owners. There will be a charge of €25 per dog, payable locally. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. From 2022 changeover day is variable depending on the season. |
| 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. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, loss of personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. From 2022 minimum stay is variable depending on the season. |
| Pool heating charge? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The pool is open from May to end of October. |
| Heating costs included? | No. A surcharge for heating will be applied dependant on usage. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings may be allowed on request. Stag/hen parties and other celebrations are not permitted. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that advertised prices are for 16 guests. An additional four children may be accommodated by prior agreement with the owner and supplements may apply. Alternatively, additional adults may also be considered on a case by case basis, subject to supplements. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that the following out of season dates are available, and pricing is on request: 06.01.2024-10.02.2024 09.03.2024-29.03.2024 26.10.2024-20.12.2024 |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 16 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 18th 2024 - May 22nd 2024 | £2,377 | £3,169 | £3,962 | £5,545 |
| May 22nd 2024 - Jun 22nd 2024 | £2,644 | £3,526 | £4,407 | £6,169 |
| Jun 22nd 2024 - Jul 6th 2024 | - | - | - | £6,585 |
| Jul 6th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | - | - | - | £7,451 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Sep 28th 2024 | £2,390 | £3,186 | £3,982 | £5,545 |
| Sep 28th 2024 - Dec 20th 2024 | £2,145 | £2,859 | £3,574 | £4,991 |
| Dec 20th 2024 - Oct 20th 2025 | £3,120 | £4,160 | £5,200 | £7,278 |
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.
Reviews
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Beautiful!
Fantastic chateau. Great welcome by the owners.
Just beautiful. Absolutely exceeded expectations. -
A wonderful and well appointed chateau in a beautiful area of France
This was our third large chateau holiday and the best. Firstly the area is beautiful, quiet and rural, the colours of local houses are warm and the village in which the chateau is situated is very pretty. Excellent for long bike rides, local markets and nearby Bourges is a great place to visit, the cathedral is spectacular.
We can also recommend the local boulanger for the most excellent pain and croissants!
The chateau sits within huge well kept grounds and you have complete privacy. All the bedrooms have super bath/shower rooms and the whole chateau is clean and well looked after.
The pool is cleaned everyday and poolside equipment was very good. There is a nice outdoor shaded area with a long table ideal for big families.
Our hosts were friendly and helpful, especially when we needed to organise our COVID tests and one of our grandchildren needed to see a doctor.
We would happily return another year, and would like to thank the owners for a wonderful relaxing holiday. -
Wonderful - well worth a visit!
In August this year we made our 3rd visit to the chateau with a group of friends and once again had a wonderful time. The first time we flew to Paris and hired a car but found it more economical to take a ferry - crossing to Dieppe last year and Calais in August. Easy drive on all occasions. Location is in a beautiful rural area steeped in history and close to the Loire with its majestic chateaux and extensive forests. Medieval Bourge is very well worth several visits – the acoustics in the cathedral are amazing. The surrounding area is reasonably flat and so an ideal centre for cycling on very quiet roads and off road tracks. The communal areas and bedrooms in the chateau are impressive and very ‘classy’. The pool area is an ideal centre for complete relaxation. Pool is clean and well maintained.
The hosts are extremely welcoming and friendly - very attentive to our needs and not obtrusive. Well worth a visit. -
Magnificent chateau!
What a hidden gem! All the photos of this Chateau do not do the place justice. From the minute you enter the gates and see this magnificent Chateau, glowing in the sunshine at the end of a sweeping drive, you know you are in for a treat. Our wonderful hosts, Claire and Phil greeted us and gave us a tour of the main building and grounds. The interior is exquisitely appointed. All the rooms are large and meticulously clean. The bedrooms are huge and comfortable without being over-fussy. The bathroom - lion clawed bath and walk-in shower - what more could you ask for after a hard day sitting beside the spotlessly clean and well-maintained outdoor pool. There's plenty of places within an hour to explore close by, so if sun worshipping isn't your thing -like me- Go to Bourges and wander around this medieval city. All in all, Chateau du Monastere is an experience. I'll never forget and one I hope to revisit.
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Something to marvel!
I have just returned from a fabulous reunion holiday of college friends, hosted at this beautiful Chateau Du Monastere. Situated in its own absolutely breathtaking grounds, of forest, fields and orchards, the land is vast enough for an early morning 5k circuit run, plus the wall to wall sunshine and a cooling swim in the beckoning outdoor pool of this gorgeous Chateau, is a definite must for everyone! The inside of the Chateau is something to marvel, with every bedroom individually named and decorated to the highest quality. A wonderful self catering holiday for our party of 14, gave us chance to meet with the excellent hosts Philip and Claire. Thank you both for making us all so welcome, we will certainly be returning in the not too distant future.
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An amazing week of relaxation
Spent a fantastic week at Chateau Du Monastere. Located in a tiny village, the Chateau is just a short drive from lots of interesting locations in the Loire valley. The Chateau has everything you need for a relaxing week - beautiful bedrooms, lovely outdoor pool, barbeque and al fresco dining area and lovely dining room and lounge. We chose to self-cater but there are options to hire in a chef to prepare meals for your group. There was also lots of information in the chateau guide about other tailored services that were available such as wine tours. Claire and Phil made sure that everything was perfect for our stay and recommended places to visit.
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Beautiful country chateau
We had a beautiful four poster suite with claw footed bath in this attractive country Chateau. We enjoyed a lazy week in glorious sunshine in August dipping in and out of the outdoor heated swimming pool. The chateau has extensive grounds in which to walk off dinner and is surrounded by peaceful countryside. Bourges was a great place to visit, both cathedral, palace and gardens were a must-see. We were with a large party of friends who took it in turns to cook and we ate outside on the terrace watching the sun go down.
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We had a marvellous week
Chateau Du Monastere is the perfect place to relax: large, beautifully furnished bedrooms, luxury bathrooms, extensive walled grounds, an orchard, seats tucked away under shady trees, well equipped large kitchen and a heated swimming pool with comfy beds & parasols. The house is far enough from the road to ensure that bird song is the loudest noise you will hear. We had a marvellous week with a large group of friends (15 for dinner one night) and the chateau never felt crowded. The outdoor dining terrace was perfect of an evening and we sat late into the night laughing, drinking and playing giant jenga! This venue is perfect for a group of friends or family to spend quality time together in beautiful surroundings. You do need a car to get out and about and Bourges is well worth a visit when you can tear yourself away from the pool
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Very pleasant and restful stay
My extended family and I stayed at Chateau Du Monastere for two weeks in August 2019. It was a delightful time. The hosts are exceptional. We were treated to a warm welcome after arriving later than usual, after a long and tiring journey. All we needed for supper and the following day’s breakfast was provided free and with no fuss. That set the tone for the rest of the stay. The hosts couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful throughout our time there. The Chateau easily absorbs a large number of people. High ceilings and wide hallways give a great sense of space.
The rooms are large and comfortable. The en suites are of a high standard and the grounds are magnificent. We all had a magical time. Our sincere thanks for all you did to make this post wedding get together a wonderful success. -
Wonderful time with family
The beautiful chateau offers plenty of space for a large family or friends, with a great kitchen, a large dining room and a cozy living room. Almost each of the eight traditionally decorated bedrooms are having their own modern bathroom.
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Stay in style!
We booked this chateau as we love the Loire region. Definitely not disappointed..... the welcome from the hosts Claire & Phil was lovely, the rooms were huge in size and height, great en suites, it can hold 16 adults plus 4 children. Loads of space in the extensive grounds which are walled and fenced, we felt very secure and great for children and our dog to explore. The large swimming pool was fantastic and spent a lot of time there lounging on luxury sun beds under the umbrellas (30C plus during our stay). We had some wonderful evening meals during our stay either outside patio area which seated us all with lovely lighting or inside in the huge dining room. As a group of family and friends we took turns to cook which was great fun and the kitchen is very well equipped to cater for a large group. We had trips out to Bourges, Sancerre & a day on a local golf course, all recommended.
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Wonderful holiday - highly recommend
Great accommodation, fantastic hosts, wonderful holiday. A very impressive chateau in huge grounds make this a great venue to relax and unwind. Each room has a unique character and there is a huge kitchen. Highly recommended.
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Superb deluxe holiday!
Stayed in a family party of 16 over new year. Great directions and with arriving on New years eve, the owner was waiting by the main gate to great us as the rest of our party had arrived the day previous. The quality of the roof finishes, furnishings, bedding, towels....... all outstanding. We had arranged for provisions ahead of our arrival, all were present and correct , even the ham was premium quality. Fabulous grounds, cosy sitting rooms and 2 friendly red setters roaming gave a homely feel in what is a stylish deluxe country residence. Can recommend the Saumur Fizz provided which the the proprietor provided to wash down a superb casserole of his own making! Fully equipped kitchen with a 1st class chef available, deluxe menus with fine wine options all available. At the owners suggestion we visited Bourges for a cosmopolitan array shops, bars and restaurants while also being steeped in history. The gardens even in winter were impressive but the jewel in the crown has to be the cathedral nestled in Napoleononic architecture. We were treated to a rendition of Concierto de Aranjuez by the owner who is himself an accomplished trumpeter and acclaimed composer. Recommended, recommended - can't wait to go back.
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Very much recommended
Great accommodation in a lovely area. Very much recommended.
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Beautiful!
Beautiful scenery, fantastic hosts and lovely, clean accommodation!
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Fabulous Week
Had a fabulous week at the Chateau, if you're looking for some time out in splendid surroundings, then I can highly recommend it. The Chateau is stunning and there is everything there that you will need. We chose to provide our own cooking during our visit but, I know that Philip and Claire can provide a chef should you require. A great place for a family get together. Highly recommended.
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Very relaxing
A beautiful place with big rooms, great decor and a nice pool. Very relaxing
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Beautiful scenery, wonderful rooms!
Beautiful scenery, wonderful rooms and an awesome car show to boot! All excellent things to go with the wonderful community of kind and friendly people.
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Peace!
A couple of day's of "get away from it all" peace and quiet was what was needed and Chateau du Monastere came up with the goods. Lovely bed, huge but beautiful rooms, well appointed en-suite and a very warm welcome from Paul and Anna all contributed to a very relaxing time. Everything was easy going with no long lists of "Hotel rules" - you were basically encouraged to make yourself at home - which we did. The grounds were attractive and private with ample car parking, Chateau du Monastere itself is pretty enough and a visit to the lovely cathedral city of Bourges just a short drive away. There is an excellent restaurant - Le Lion d'Or - 15 mins drive away at Nerondes.
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Charming Chateau
The words 'pure serenity' encapsulate the feeling that you get when you enter the gate and catch the first glimpse of Chateau du Monastere. The chateau is very tastefully decorated and each suite is the very definition of understated elegance. The meals were delicious, the wine was excellent and the bed was very comfortable. The stay rivaled that of a 5-star hotel. The hosts Paul and Anna were extremely friendly and welcoming and always catered to the needs of the guests. One gets the feeling of being at a retreat where you could enjoy a picnic on the beautiful grounds, relax by the pool, sit and meditate under a shady tree or read a favorite book. The chateau's proximity to Bourges, Sancerre and the other quaint towns and villages in the area make it an ideal place to visit. I highly recommend it!
Lynette L'Amour -
A-Amazing experience!
If you have ever dreamed of living in a Grand French Manor House -- a weekend in this fabulous Chateau du Monastere can make it a reality. Only 2.5 hours from the hustle and bustle of Paris we found this escape to the countryside was sheer bliss. From our first moments being greeted by our hostess Anna we felt right at home. The house is so comfortable and relaxed. The guest rooms are large and beautifully decorated and the huge bathrooms are straight out of a five star luxury resort (complete with giant claw foot soaking tub). The delicious breakfast was amazing. And Anna will even cook a wonderful home cooked dinner if you want to stay in verses venture out in the evening. The special aspect of Chateau du Monastere is the connection with two main charities which the owners support. A portion of the cost of your stay is donated directly to either of these charities. Amazing concept and a way to have a great weekend and do some good at the same time.
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Pleasant discovery
Found this last minute, and pleased we did, nice location and quiet, good base for exploring the area. The chateau is well run by Paul and Anna, nothing was too much trouble, really relaxing atmosphere, We had a great room with lovely views , and it was well appointed as were all the rooms.
Have to add we admire Paul dream of using the profits from the chatueau for several good causes. So choice Chateau du Monastere and support Paul in his endeavours to make a difference, whilst having a great stay into the bargain. -
Fabulous
Spent an all too short 3 nights at Chateau du Monastere. Totally charming property and hosts.
The village itself is small but beautiful but lacks restaurants so we found lunch out to be the best option followed by a dinner at the Chateau cooked by Anna. Had we stayed longer I would like to have tried a little self catering using some of the local produce. Thoroughly enjoyed ever bit of the experience and will return.
Would be wonderful in summer with the pool. The local church is a particular treat and our thanks to Paul for organising to have the church opened for us. -
The best kept secret in France
We stayed for a long weekend in April. Fantastic setting, amazing service and food by Anna and we simply did not want to leave. There is beautiful and quiet countryside to explore and the pool adds that extra bit of luxury for your stay.We are returning for longer this September. Simply outstanding.
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Ah The Serenity
Chateau du Monastere really is one of the best kept secrets in the region - if it wasn't supporting such incredible charities I'd keep it all to myself!
We visited in April 2014 (we're going back in September - that's how much we loved it) and were amazed when we discovered that we had just walked into a perfectly restored piece of rural France that it's impossible to describe until you've visited.
When you enter the Chateau you're greeted by a beautifully grand entrance hall with a sweeping, curved stairway that just screams luxury. Despite its size, the Chateau is decorated in keeping with its history and is full of homely accents that make it feel immediately cosy and homely.
On the ground floor you'll find the dining room that hosts a large table at which you can eat with other guests. We were lucky enough to have the Chateau all to ourselves for the first couple of nights but enjoyed the company on our final night. You'll also find the salon which is a cosy little room with the only TV in the Chateau (the TV is so well blended into the background I didn't even realise there was one until our final day), one of the guest rooms and the kitchen, where the lovely Anna works her magic.
Upstairs are the additional guest rooms and, my favourite room, the library. The library is stuffed full of books (in both English and French) and comfy furniture and is the perfect place to relax in typical French surroundings.
The Chateau has a large outdoor pool which is situated next to the orchard and provides the perfect place to view the Chateau and its extensive grounds while relaxing. If you ask nicely Anna will also show you her chicken coop and herb garden - and chickens means fresh eggs every morning :-)
The grounds of the Chateau are immaculately maintained and provide plenty or running-around space for those visiting with children.
The Chateau is situated not far from the larger towns of Bourges and Sancerre but there are smaller towns and villages close by for you to explore. We took a trip to Sancerre which only took an hour by car and was well worth the drive - even the route was beautiful.
Although the Chateau is undoubtedly incredible, it wouldn't be that way without Anna, the hostess with the mostess!
Anna, who manages the day to day running of the Chateau by herself, does a remarkable job and she's the most hospitable person you're ever likely to meet. She's warm, friendly, helpful, sociable (she'll even eat with you in the evenings so you can get to know her a bit), funny and possibly the best baker on the planet.
Anna also cooks all the fabulous food you'll eat and grows a lot of her own fresh produce in the orchard and herb garden, so you're guaranteed great quality.
It was my husband's birthday when we visited so I called ahead to see if she would leave a small cake in our room for when we arrived, which she was more than happy to do and it was a lovely touch.
I can't wait to go back - this time for much longer - and get chance to relax properly and explore the grounds a bit more.
This hotel supports the Bridge to Haiti and Bridge to Sri Lanka charities so if you ever get the chance, head down to the beautiful Loire Valley and enjoy a break while doing your bit for charity. -
Acres of Charm
Chateau du Monastere is spectacular: a grand 19th century house in thirty-two acres of parkland, yet it is a warm and welcoming place. We rented it the place for two weeks, and felt very much at home -- perhaps too much like home, as the weather was uncharacterisically English at times! The house is beautifully furnished and very well equipped, and extravagantly large. Paul (the owner) and Anna (the housekeeper) were exceptionally helpful. The area is peaceful verging on sleepy, with very few tourists, but enough interesting sights for day trips nearby. Lots of time spent by the pool. Ideal for families with children, as there is so much space for them. Highly recommended.
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Immaculately renovated and furnished
We stayed for 4 days in Oct 2011 and we found that the Chateau itself has been immaculately renovated and furnished and offers true quality whilst the welcome and the atmosphere from the minute you turn in to the gates from the road is second to none. We were so well looked after from the moment we arrived till we drove away at the end of 4 magical days. Anna is the perfect hostess and an excellent cook. She coped really well with our vegetarian requirements and the food was so tasty and well presented. She couldn't do enough to pamper us from morning till night. We were in the Bordeaux Suite which was extremely spacious, 18' x 9' with high ceilings and a huge bathroom. The grounds are splendid and well maintained with seating at various locations allowing you to sit and while the time away listening to the birds and watching the red squirrels play. The lovely heated swimming pool had already been prepared for winter so we were unable to enjoy it ourselves but look forward to going back again next year to do so. If you are ever travelling through France it is well worth planning your route to spend a few days here. There are 5 suites altogether and would also be great for a holiday itself, for a family get together, a business meeting or just a romantic getaway for 2 (4 poster bed included!). One of the suites also has an interconnecting second bedroom for families too! It took us 5 hours to drive back to Calais and is less to St Malo.
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We'll be back very soon !
My wife Helen and I have just spent the most magical four days at Chateau de Monastere. It is situated in about 30 acres of stunning parkland in the picturesque village of Charly to the south of Bourges, almost in the dead centre of France.
From the moment we were greeted so warmly by Paul and his ever smiling and happy colleague Anna, we felt completely at home. The sense of warmth and welcome that Paul and Anna exude make one feel that one is visiting the home of an old friend.
After a refreshing welcome drink we were shown to our sumptuous room, the Charly Suite, a huge bedroom with a magnificent 4 poster bed and the most wonderful bathroom with a lovely claw foot bath and double shower. Both rooms had a glorious view over the park.
The chateau is magnificent in a very comfortable way. It is not at all pretentious and exudes warmth and comfort in all its aspects, greatly enhanced by the attitudes of Paul and Anna for whom nothing is too much trouble.
We made arrangements to have dinner on the first night having arrived after a five hour drive, expecting to eat out for the rest of our stay. Well that was it ! Having tasted Anna's wonderful cooking we ate at the Chateau every night! They have an excellent cellar incidentally! Breakfasts are another treat !
Our days were spent either by the pool, which is situated far enough away from the main house so as to be very private, with a glorious view over the orchard, or walking or cycling around the area. Paul has bicycles which he kindly lent us.
For us the Chateau feels like a home away from home. We want it be both a closely guarded secret that we can go back to on a regular basis and at the same time something that we want to shout from the roof tops about that others can experience.
Many, many thanks to Paul, Anna and Sarah for making our year! We'll be back very soon ! -
What a special place this is
Having just spent a weekend at the Chateau with a friend, I must tell others what a special place this is. The Chateau is set in beautifully cared for and picturesque parkland, including an orchard, herb garden, and acres of open space, woodland and quaint outbuildings including a coachhouse and cottage, currently disused. An outdoor heated swimming pool was drained for the winter, but would be a lovely relaxing place to spend a day in warmer months. Inside the chateau is warm, welcoming and homely, with beautiful wooden, stone and marble floors, all warmed by underfloor heating, and adorned with gorgeous rugs. The bedroom suites are spacious and tastefully decorated, each room with a different theme and colour scheme - and the bed was so comfortable. And the bathrooms are just divine!!! The continental breakfast was lovely, and a good traditionally french start to the day. The evening meal, made with locally sourced produce and fruit and herbs from the grounds was delicious, beautifully complimented by wines from the chateau's wine cellar for all tastes and purses. The Chateau's own wine was very reasonably priced and very drinkable! The new owner Paul was not staying at the Chateau during our stay, but sounds like a wonderful host and remarkably charitable person - for all room proceeds to be donated to two very special charities is just fantastic. But the stay was made the most special because of the Chateau manager, Anna - a wonderfully genuine and bubbly hostess with obvious experience in the hospitality industry, and a huge asset to the Chateau experience. She was so welcoming, and made us feel so instantly at home, we really did not want to leave. A return visit is most definitely on the cards. It is a special place which would be hard to beat.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
