Domaine Des Cours
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Overview
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Surrounded by rolling countryside and summer sunflowers, close to some of the Loire valley’s most glorious vineyards and iconic châteaux, Domaine Des Cours is a beautiful French abode in an enchanting setting just perfect for an extended family or group of friends.
Sleeping up to 14 guests, this charming little hamlet is home to a welcoming house and converted barn positioned between two traditional courtyards with a heated swimming pool and al-fresco dining terrace with spectacular valley and forest views. Embrace the history around you – the hamlet was constructed over two ancient water sources and you can still admire the mill, pigeonnier, wine press and bread oven from bygone years.
As well as six pretty bedrooms scattered across both buildings, most with en suite bathrooms, each house also features its own lounge and well-equipped kitchen-diner whilst a bar and games room add to the estate’s relaxed and inviting ambience. This is truly a house for all generations.
Beyond the enclosed hamlet and its gorgeous salt-water swimming pool, make the most of the seven-acre estate with meadows, an orchard, potager and a spacious play area which will delight youngsters. Meanwhile, stroll down to the lake with its rowing boat, perhaps passing the resident chickens and goats. If you can find a moment to yourself, seek out one of the hammocks and relax in splendid surroundings.
The lovely owners live within the hamlet and are renowned for their culinary creations – a home-cooked meal over charcoal and local wood is an absolute must during your time here, prepared by the winner of the 2022 ‘Championnat de France de Barbecue’. With a fine reputation for their food, they are due to be featured in Le Petit Futé travel guide as a 'gastronomic destination'. They can cater for every age and diet and menus are based on good seasonal produce.
You can also enjoy lunches at the café-bar in the local village or pick up a wealth of local delights at Richelieu’s Friday morning market, around a 15-minute drive away. A family-friendly cycling trail connects Richelieu to the historic riverside town of Chinon, via the grand Château du Rivau.
Other famous Loire valley châteaux nearby include Château d'Azay-le-Rideau and Château de Villandry whilst there are so many excellent vineyards; sample the red wines of Chinon, Saumur’s sparkling white and Chenin Blanc from the vines by the banks of the Loire near Vouvray.
As well as peaceful walks, pony-rides and local cycling, look out for canoeing opportunities and boat trips along the Vienne and Loire rivers, Sunday morning brocantes in market towns and even the healing waters and spas of La Roche-Posay, all within easy reach of the wonderful Domaine Des Cours.
What you should know…
- There are three bedrooms in the main house and three bedrooms in a beautifully converted barn, both connected by two beautiful courtyards.
- The lovely owners and their family (and cats) live on site and are there to help if needed (and cook delicious wood-fired meals on request).
- You may see the owners carrying out chores and feeding the chickens etc but they otherwise remain discreet. Their son may occasionally use the swimming pool but he will always check if guests are present.
Property Features
Large House Interiors
Ground Floor
- Open-plan lounge with log-burner
- Open-plan dining area with table (for 14 guests) and open kitchen, well-equipped including Smeg oven, induction hob, fridge-freezer, wine fridge, dishwasher, microwave and toaster
- WC
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
First Floor
- Mezzanine upper hallway
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom with four single beds (or twin doubles) and en suite bathroom with bath/shower
Barn Interiors
Ground Floor
- Open-plan lounge, dining area (for 6 guests) and kitchen, fully-equipped
- WC
Upstairs
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom with shower
- Bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite Jack and Jill style bathroom with bath/shower, two sinks and WC
- Bedroom with bunk-beds (connects to above bathroom)
Outside Grounds (seven-acre estate)
- Heated saltwater swimming pool (10x5m, depth: 1.5m) with safety cover. Heated and open approximately May to September during daylight hours
- Poolside terrace with sun-loungers, shaded patio and fridge
- Al-fresco dining terrace
- Barbecue
- Badminton
- Sunken trampoline
- Play area with swings and slide
- Hammocks
- Lake with rowing boat
- Orchard, meadows and stream
- Potager and herb garden
- Farm animals (chicken enclosure and goats)
- EV charging station (extra cost)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Smart TV
- Games room with table tennis
- Bar with table football
- Badminton
- Children's play area
- EV charging station (extra cost)
- Access to laundry facilities
Location
About the surrounding area of Domaine Des CoursDomaine Des Cours is set in the rolling countryside of Indre-et-Loire department, part of the Parc Naturel Régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine, close to some of the country’s best vineyards and well located for visiting many of the Loire valley’s iconic châteaux.
A traditional village is 2.5km away, home to a café-bar (serving lunchtime meals) and shop for fresh bread and basic groceries whilst further amenities can be found in the historic town of Richelieu (17km), home to a bustling market on a Friday morning.
Look out for events and festivities taking place in Richelieu and take a stroll around the town’s elegant park where the Château de Richelieu once proudly stood. A 20km cycling trail connects Richelieu and the beautiful town of Chinon, via the very grand and much-visited Château du Rivau (17km).
Surrounded by endless vineyards, Chinon (31km) lies on the Vienne River and is a charming medieval town with pretty shops, cafes and wine-bars, canoeing opportunities along the Vienne as well as the impressive Château de Chinon. Just beyond Chinon is Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud (46km), classified as a French National Monument, and the elegant town of Saumur (61km) with its sparkling white wine and renowned Cadre Noir equestrian school.
The Vienne and Loire Rivers converge near Candes-Saint-Martin (44km), one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ where you can enjoy boat trips along the Loire. Keen cyclists can pick up the La Véloire route towards Saumur or even towards Villandry and Tours.
As well as the amazing castles of Chinon and Rivau, other famous châteaux of the Loire valley include Château d'Azay-le-Rideau (35km), Château de Villandry (48km) and Château Royal d'Amboise (75km). The exquisite city of Tours (55km) is another wonderful day out, perhaps combined with a visit to the vineyards around Vouvray (61km).
The owners will also let you know when local brocantes are taking place, usually on a Sunday morning once a month in villages and towns such as Saumur, Chinon and Montsoreau.
For a change of scene, the healing waters and spas of La Roche-Posay (42km) are easily reached, as is the handsome town of Châtellerault (26km) by the banks of the Vienne River.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Tours Val de Loire Airport
(58km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Aéroport de Poitiers-Biard
(59km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de St-Pierre-des-Corps
(56km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Cafe-bar for lunchtime meals
(2.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Intermarché SUPER Nerac et Drive
(13km) |
||
| Nearest Town |
Richelieu
(17km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Beaumont Saint-Cyr
(38km) |
||
| Nearest City |
Tours
(55km) |
||
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 AgesSurrounded by glorious countryside, part of the Parc Naturel Régional Loire-Anjou-Touraine, the natural beauty of this region will enchant families with a variety of activities of all ages.
As well as wonderful walks and local cycling routes, find pony-rides within a short drive. A little further afield, horse enthusiasts should also visit the Cadre Noir equestrian school in Saumur.
Take a stroll around the elegant and historic park in Richelieu whilst keen cyclists can pick up the Velo Verte cycling trail, a former railway line connecting Richelieu, the famous Château du Rivau (well worth visiting) and Chinon. Chinon itself enjoys a gorgeous setting by the Vienne River where you will find canoeing and kayaking opportunities in the summer months.
Pick up boat trips along the Loire from Candes-Saint-Martin or try out canoeing and kayaking along the Loire near Saumur and other places dotted along this beautiful and iconic river. Not forgetting famous and grand castles of the Loire valley - Château d'Azay-le-Rideau and Château de Villandry are two of the many reached within an hour.
You are also in a great location for visiting Futuroscope, one of France’s most popular tourist destinations, a science-themed attraction park with so much to do!
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Swings
- Slide
- Trampoline
- Badminton
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Games Room
- Indoor Games
- Outdoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
Services Available
- Catering Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Catering 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):
-Full catering service of meals cooked over local wood and charcoal fires by the owner who is an award-winning chef - menus are seasonal and available a few weeks in advance. Options are available for children, vegans, vegetarians etc.
External caterers not permitted Domaine Des Cours. Please also note that the Oliver’s Travels chef service is not available at this property.
Please also 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
| Security deposit | €500 charged to client’s credit card by the owner as a pre-authorisation one week before 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 | €500 charged to client’s credit card by the owner as a pre-authorisation one week before and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes and mid-stay linen/towel change included for stays of more than 7 nights. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes (excluding electric vehicle charging). |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | No. €200, paid locally. This is for a standard changeover clean. 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 garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. Please note that light mid-stay cleaning is included for stays of more than 7 nights. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €3-€10 per adult per night - please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately May to September. 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. |
| Pool heating charge? | Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Domaine Des Cours sleeps up to 14 guests and three babies. Three cots and three highchairs are available on request. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Guests will be required to sign a copy of the owner's rental terms before the arrival. |
| 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. A copy of the policy may be requested by the owners before arrival. |
| Other Ts and Cs | External caterers are not permitted at this property. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 14 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Dec 11th 2023 - Dec 23rd 2023 | £4,645 |
| Dec 23rd 2023 - Jan 4th 2024 | £6,488 |
| Jan 4th 2024 - Jun 29th 2024 | £5,898 |
| Jun 29th 2024 - Aug 31st 2024 | £6,488 |
| Aug 31st 2024 - Dec 21st 2024 | £5,898 |
| Dec 21st 2024 - Jan 2nd 2025 | £6,488 |
| Jan 2nd 2025 - Jun 13th 2025 | £5,898 |
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?
Scott, Elena & Louis moved to La Barauderie in July 2017. We used to live and work in London, but when Louis was born we ...
Read moreOwner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
Scott, Elena & Louis moved to La Barauderie in July 2017. We used to live and work in London, but when Louis was born we wanted a more outdoors lifestyle in the countryside so we moved to rural France. We haven’t looked back yet!
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
Our property is a tranquil haven. As soon as you enter the gate into the courtyard, it’ so quiet, only the birds singing and the joyful noise of friends and family “getting together”. We loved the serenity of the countryside, so much space with the orchards and small lake, but the security of being within the courtyards knowing it was safe for children to explore and play.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
La Barauderie is an ancient hamlet built over two water sources dating to before the earliest records in France. As well as beautiful holiday homes, the hamlet retains all the character from these origins including the rudimentary mill, pigonnier, bread oven, wine press and terrain. Better still, all these features are yours to visit, explore and enjoy providing unique spaces and framing spectacular views wherever you are in the domaine.
We are situated in the natural park of Anjou-Touraine along with some of the best vineyards in France, surrounded by the famous Chateaux of the Loire and the homes of kings, philosophers and writers. La Barauderie is close to everything the wonderful Loire valley has to offer yet provides an exclusive and private escape a world away from the bustle and crowds.
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?
- Must eat?
- Must see?
There are so many places to explore nearby, namely the famous Chateaux of the Loire. Our favourite is Chateau de Rivau (20 minutes). It has an enchanted castle and interesting gardens, with lots for children to do. The privately owned chateau houses some unique modern art, and the restaurant serves delicious lunches, we’d recommend booking.
If you’re looking for a chateau and a great town to browse around shops, we’d recommend a day trip to Amboise (about an hour). There’s the Chateau d’Amboise featuring Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb, and Chateau du Clos Luce, Leonardo’s former home which houses a small collection of his work and a great selection of his inventions to play with in the beautiful gardens. Or you could visit the Chateau at Chenonceau which is known as one of the prettiest chateau in the Loire, it magnificent, built across the river Cher.
Diversifying from chateau, but still a beautiful location is Abbaye Royale de Fontevraud, a former monastery and prison which houses the reclining effigies of Eleanor of Aquitaine, her husband Henry 2nd and of their son Richard the Lionheart. It also houses some amazing art and a Michelin starred restaurant.
To explore one of the top 5 zoo’s in the world, Parc de Beauval is just over an hour away. It has the only Panda’s in France and recently opened a cable car and Equatorial dome which is beautiful. Be warned, this is a full day out but worth it! For older children, and the number one tourist destination in France, there is Futuroscope near Poitiers (40 minutes), it’s like a scientific Disneyland and has ana amazing lightshow every evening.
For places to eat, we would love you to dine with us. Scott is the Champion of barbecue in France winning the title in September 2022. He cooks everything over woodfire, creating delicious convivial meals that can last for hours! His style is world foods, so his food can take you to other places if you wish…..
For restaurants, there are a few really good local places that aren’t too expensive. L’Amuse Saveurs (about 15 mins) borders the river and has a relaxed lunch or dinner service. If you like a view, the Auberge at Crissay Sur Manse provides it. The food is simple but delicious and the views across the valley and vines is beautiful. For a selection of restaurants, we recommend a trip to Chinon, where you can find a good selection of restaurants. Our favourite is l’Entrepot which has a lovely outdoor quad for summer dining.
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Don’t plan to go out too much, more than often guests arrive and want relax by the pool, rest in the hammock or take a gentle row on the lake. The tranquillity and space is the perfect place to de-stress and unwind.
Reviews
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A little slice of heaven
The most wonderful place - a haven of peace in the rural French countryside amidst fields of sunflowers with beautiful views from all directions. A little slice of heaven!
Scott and Elena (and Louis!) are fabulous hosts - they couldn’t have done more to make our stay as enjoyable and relaxing as possible and we didn’t want for anything. The pool is glorious and kept the children entertained for hours along with the spacious gardens and orchard.
We highly recommend booking a meal or two (or more!). Scott is an incredible cook and we thoroughly enjoyed the simple yet delicious ‘Barauderie Chicken’ on our arrival evening, meaning we could just arrive and settle in straightaway.
The ‘Curry Night’ menu was absolutely delicious and the ‘Menu du Pitmaster’ was also fabulous - Scott’s skills on the fire know no bounds! As a result we now have some very special memories of our family and friends around the table on the terrace overlooking the gardens and in the bar surrounded by twinkling lights when we had a touch of rain. Not even the weather can spoil a break at La Barauderie!
Thank you for a wonderful holiday, we will be back! -
Fabulous stay
Well, what can I say! This is our second visit, last time with family and this time with friends and all our children. The accommodation was outstanding, with everything we needed available to make our stay a delight. Large, spacious rooms, lots of space for the children to run around, and with the weather being particularly warm, the pool was a godsend.
Elena and Scott (and Louis!) were the best hosts, and as a birthday treat for one of our friends, we tried the burger night, run by Scott, which was superb and very unique to anything we have experienced.
We all came away having had a lovely mixture of sightseeing (thanks for the recommendations, Elena) and relaxation by the pool, whilst the kids had so much fun in the pool.
Honestly, I can't recommend this place enough, and we will certainly be coming back again! -
Stunningly Beautiful Location
We had a wonderful week for many reasons. First - it is just a stunningly beautiful location - at every point in the day - it is a perfect place to be. We were there during a heatwave and spent the day cool inside and then cool in the fabulous pool. The view is just gorgeous and the grounds are a perfect place to explore. Also the owners were wonderful hosts - bringing us exactly what we needed before we realized what that was - from G&T ice lollies to watermelon. They were always accommodating and helpful. As a family gathering that ranged from age 2 to 83 - we were all extremely happy with every aspect of the holiday. You will be so glad that you chose this property for your holiday - we certainly were.
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Already planning our return visit for next year!
The facilities and comfortable accommodation are ideal for a self catering holiday. We had a great time with the hosts being just perfect in ensuring we enjoyed the experience of staying at their property. The surroundings are ideal to explore the lovely countryside with views across the garden and lake from the terrace. Relaxing by the heated swimming pool, barbecuing on the terrace or breakfast on the patio, there are so many ways to enjoy this property -we did them all. All the family enjoyed their stay, so much so we are already planning our return visit for next year!
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Truly Magnifique!
Truly magnifique! This is the most beautiful place to get away from the world and relax in style! Totally authentic French paradise. The owners were such great hosts. We had a guided tour around this huge 16th century property, getting an insight into all the history and eating fruit off the various trees as we walked round. We even took a boat out on the lake which was fun and collected the eggs from the chickens. It was an endless Narnia with so many different rooms (all beautifully decorated), wine cellars, balconies...it was magical! The best bit was sitting out by the pool in the glorious afternoon sunshine with a glass of local wine in hand... we couldn't have asked for a better way to relax! The hosts were excellent and the food and wine was delicious! My bedroom/ensuite was perfect with beautiful linen, luxurious towels and fantastic views over the swimming pool looking out over the rolling hills and sunset! We were only at the property for two days, but it felt like a week, I came back home feeing so healthy and relaxed! Thanks so much to the hosts for such a wonderful time and making it very special, I will definitely be booking a return visit!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
