Palais D’Or
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Overview
Walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc and Richard the Lionheart as you stay in La Cité Royale de Loches, an incredible and unique location in one of France’s most historically significant towns, in the Loire valley.
It’s hard to imagine a more privileged setting for a holiday home – this 18th- century palace is perched high in Loches’ citadel with its grand garden set behind the town’s 15th-century ramparts. Yet step through Palais D’Or’s wrought-iron gate and experience the calm and tranquil ambience within the palais’ historic walls.
Made with local white stone and steep slate roof tiles, the palace will charm you with traditional furnishings, antique pieces and exquisite attention to detail such as fabric walls and real gold gilding on the ceilings. The spacious living room enjoys views of the formal garden and leads straight through to the graceful dining room, a romantic spot for candlelit feasts prepared in the French kitchen with its vaulted ceiling, elegant La Cornue stove and all-important wine-fridge.
The palace features three pretty doubles, one single bedroom and two luxuriously fitted shower rooms in the towers, including a striking gold spine shower, whilst a further three bedrooms and bathroom can be found in the Pavilion within the grounds, also home to a second lounge and kitchen.
Outside, within your private oasis, stroll through the acre of gardens passing lawns and fruit trees, laze in a hammock or find a bench where you can admire views of Loches and beyond. Dine al-fresco on the terrace with St-Ours church’s belltower peeping through the trees. Guests both young and old will adore the table football and ping-pong to be found in the garden’s underground games room.
How wonderful to be neighbours with the famous Château de Loches with its gardens and castle keep just down the lane – its history is fascinating and it has hosted a number of important figures over the years.
Then of course there is the lower town of Loches to explore, a brief stroll away, where you will find cobbled lanes filled with restaurants and cafes as well as many shops and a delightful twice weekly market. Wander across the picturesque Indre river to the public gardens and admire the views back up towards the historic citadel – this is a truly special location.
Canoe or kayak along the river, hire bikes to follow the Indre à Vélo trail or enjoy shady walks and cycling through the old woodland surrounding Loches. Take the train to the magnificent city of Tours on the Loire river, visit the vineyards of Vouvray and drive to idyllic places such as the garden village of Chédigny and Montrésor, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.
Seek out many more of the Loire valley’s grand châteaux such as Château de Chenonceau and Royal d'Amboise, both within half an hour, before stepping back through the Porte Royale gates and returning to your own remarkable sanctuary above the battlements of Loches.
What you should know…
- The Palais is home to four bedrooms and two bathrooms whilst the separate Pavilion has three bedrooms and one bathroom.
- If you are planning to enjoy feasts in the Palais’ beautiful dining room, please note that the table seats up to 12 guests.
- The Pavilion’s twin bedroom on the top floor has low sloping ceilings so may be better suited to children.
Property Features
Palais Interiors
Main Floor
- Entrance hall
- Living room with marble fireplace and French doors opening up to garden
- Dining room with table and chairs (for up to 12 guests) and French doors opening up to garden
- Kitchen and utility room, fully-equipped including La Cornue stove, dishwasher (x2), fridge-freezer (x2) and wine fridge
- Library with TV and Playstation 4
- Guest WC
- Bedroom with single bed
First Floor
- 2 x bedrooms with king-size double bed
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bathroom with bath, rain shower, bidet and sink
- WC
- Shower room with spine shower, sink and WC
Pavilion Interiors
Main Floor
- Living-dining room with lounge seating and table (for up to 6 guests)
- Kitchen area, well-equipped including oven, hob, dishwasher and fridge-freezer
- Guest WC
- Laundry room
First Floor
- Bedroom with king-size double bed
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bathroom with bath and shower
Second Floor
- Bedroom with twin beds (low sloping ceiling – best suited to children)
Outside Grounds (one acre)
- Al-fresco dining area (for up to 14 guests)
- Barbecue
- Hammocks, benches and outdoor lounge furnishings
- Formal garden with fruit trees
- Games room (underground) with table tennis and table football
- Parking (up to 3 cars)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Smart TV
- Playstation 4
- Table football
- Table tennis
- Cellars (2 acres)
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Palais D’OrPalais D’Or is located within the city walls of Loches, one of France’s most significant historic towns. In a perched position on a rocky spur, in the heart of the citadel, you are surrounded by the town’s battlements yet there is a feeling of peace and privacy within your walled home and garden.
Situated in southern Touraine, Loches is one of the most beautifully preserved towns in France, almost like a smaller version of Carcassonne and the only walled town in the Loire valley. In the highest part of Loches, the Palais lies alongside the Château de Loches, the impressively tall 11th century Donjon and the wonderful Romanesque St-Ours church. This is a truly privileged setting - La Cité Royale de Loches has been home to many kings and queens across the years and it is famously where Joan of Arc met Charles VII to tell him the war against England was over.
On the banks of the Indre, Loches is home to numerous excellent restaurants, many with pretty al-fresco terraces set out along the town’s narrow lanes, as well as a variety of lovely shops and a vibrant twice-weekly market, considered to be the best in the region. Meanwhile, art-lovers will be keen to admire the Caravaggio paintings on display in the Saint-Antoine gallery.
Cross the picturesque river, where locals love to fish, and stroll around the tranquil public gardens. The river offers swimming, canoeing and kayaking opportunities and bike hire is also available – look out for the Indre à Vélo cycling trail which passes through Loches or bike into the shady and historic woodland surrounding the town.
The great city of Tours is only a 45-minute drive away (or take the hour-long train ride from Loches’ train station). Wander around the old quarter with its half-timbered houses, enjoy the amazing markets across the city and soak up the ambience by the banks of the Loire river with its bars, restaurants and cultural events. Traditional wooden boats offer trips along the Loire and culture lovers should head to the impressive Olivier Debré Contemporary Art Centre to admire the art displays as well as the architecture.
Just outside Tours, the vineyards of Vouvray are well known across France and there are plenty of chances to visit wineries and sample the well-known white wine produced in this area.
Of course, you are also perfectly positioned to visit some of the Loire valley’s other famous chateaux such as Château Royal d'Amboise and Château de Chenonceau, both just over half an hour away, and Château de Villandry just a little further.
Even closer, discover the idyllic village of Chédigny (12km), a glorious garden village known for its many roses which are celebrated at the village’s Festival of Roses in late May. Montrésor (20km) is another gorgeous village with medieval lanes on the banks of the Indrois, classified as one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’.
For outdoor enthusiasts, as well as all the cycling opportunities, discover walking trails between the Indre and Loire rivers or drive to nearby as L’Étang du Louroux, an especially tranquil lake which is perfect for bird-watching and nature walks.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Tours Val de Loire Airport
(47km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Loches
(Within 1km ) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Loches
(Within 100m) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Small supermarket
(Within 500m) |
||
| Nearest City |
Tours
(44km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Tennis Club Lochois
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Loches-Verneuil
(10km) |
||
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 AgesPalais D’Or enjoys a privileged location in the heart of the old citadel in the historic town of Loches. Step out of your gate and just down the lane is the amazing Château de Loches and its 11th century Donjon. Be enchanted on your visit to this brilliant château and immerse yourself into history as you climb the steps of the castle keep. Walk in the footsteps of Richard the Lionheart and Joan of Arc as you explore the gardens – it’s a great way to spend some family time and children under 7 are free.
As well as enjoying the welcoming ambience of Loches’ old town with its narrow lanes, cafes, restaurants and twice-weekly market, Loches is also home to a lovely park just across the river, the perfect spot for shady picnics or simply somewhere for youngsters to let off steam at the little playground.
Just outside Loches, the Parc Aquatique Naturéo has all sorts of swimming activities including a natural swimming pond outside. Children may also enjoy a visit to Confiserie Hallard, just south of Loches, to see how sweets are made.
There are canoeing and kayaking opportunities along the Indre river and bike hire is also available – look out for the picturesque Indre à Vélo cycling trail or go biking with the family through the historic Loches woodland just outside the town.
Around a 20-minute drive away, L’Étang du Louroux is an attractive place for family-friendly nature walks and bird-watching or head up towards Noyers-sur-Cher, 40km by car, and enjoy a day out at the popular ZooParc de Beauval.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Easy By Train
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Canoeing/Kayaking
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Xbox/Playstation/Wii
- Games Room
- Table Tennis
- Table Football
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Welcome Pack Included (Wine and Treats)
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 Pack (wine and treats)
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 | £1500 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation 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 | £1500 charged to client’s credit card as a pre-authorisation 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. |
| Linen & 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. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. |
| Minimum stay | 3 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outside only. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. However, please note it is a quiet residential area. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 13 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 5th 2022 - Jul 16th 2022 | £2,557 | £2,983 | £3,409 | £4,261 |
| Jul 16th 2022 - Aug 27th 2022 | £2,930 | £3,418 | £3,906 | £4,883 |
| Aug 27th 2022 - Sep 3rd 2022 | £2,557 | £2,983 | £3,409 | £4,261 |
| Sep 3rd 2022 - Oct 1st 2022 | £2,291 | £2,672 | £3,054 | £3,817 |
| Oct 1st 2022 - Oct 22nd 2022 | £2,248 | £2,623 | £2,997 | £3,746 |
| Oct 22nd 2022 - Oct 29th 2022 | £2,514 | £2,933 | £3,352 | £4,190 |
| Oct 29th 2022 - Dec 24th 2022 | £2,088 | £2,436 | £2,784 | £3,480 |
| Dec 24th 2022 - Feb 28th 2023 | £2,514 | £2,933 | £3,352 | £4,190 |
| Feb 28th 2023 - Apr 15th 2023 | £1,865 | £2,175 | £2,486 | £3,107 |
| Apr 15th 2023 - Apr 22nd 2023 | £2,291 | £2,672 | £3,054 | £3,817 |
| Apr 22nd 2023 - Apr 29th 2023 | £1,865 | £2,175 | £2,486 | £3,107 |
| Apr 29th 2023 - May 27th 2023 | £2,131 | £2,486 | £2,841 | £3,551 |
| May 27th 2023 - Jun 3rd 2023 | £2,557 | £2,983 | £3,409 | £4,261 |
| Jun 3rd 2023 - Jun 24th 2023 | £2,291 | £2,672 | £3,054 | £3,817 |
| Jun 24th 2023 - Jul 15th 2023 | £2,557 | £2,983 | £3,409 | £4,261 |
| Jul 15th 2023 - Aug 26th 2023 | £2,930 | £3,418 | £3,906 | £4,883 |
| Aug 26th 2023 - Sep 2nd 2023 | £2,557 | £2,983 | £3,409 | £4,261 |
| Sep 2nd 2023 - Sep 30th 2023 | £2,291 | £2,672 | £3,054 | £3,817 |
| Sep 30th 2023 - Oct 21st 2023 | £2,248 | £2,623 | £2,997 | £3,746 |
| Oct 21st 2023 - Oct 28th 2023 | £2,514 | £2,933 | £3,352 | £4,190 |
| Oct 28th 2023 - Dec 23rd 2023 | £2,088 | £2,436 | £2,784 | £3,480 |
| Dec 23rd 2023 - Jan 6th 2024 | £2,514 | £2,933 | £3,352 | £4,190 |
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 bought the palais in 2019 and spent the last few years restoring it to its former grandeur. It has been a tricky process...
Read moreOwner Profile
- How long have you owned the property?
We bought the palais in 2019 and spent the last few years restoring it to its former grandeur. It has been a tricky process working with local artisans remotely during the pandemic but we are delighted with the outcome.
- What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
We previously have owned rural Chateaux and vineyards but we really wanted to find a quiet architectural gem but in a location that gave us immediate walking access to restaurants, shops and culture. We found it in this palais.
- Are there any interesting stories in its history?
We have heard that many nobles historically owned the property and that the ½ acre of tunnels beneath the house connect with the home of the kings of France at the Royal lodge some 100 metres away.
- Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Historically a Marquis and a viscount owned the house.
- For anyone coming to stay, is there anything you suggest that they really… Must do?
Go to the weekly markets on Wednesday and Saturday in the town nestled against the city walls. Incredible food, wine, clothes, board games and more can be found on the hundred stalls.
- Must eat?
As the garden of France the Loire valley has some of the best produce. Sauvignon and chenin white wines from Sancerre and Samur are wonderful accompaniment to Rotisserie chicken, Mushrooms or cheeses.
- Must see?
On the doorstep of the palais you have access to the Royal lodge a fairy tale castle home to countless kings to explore as well as the Donjon or keep laid siege to by Richard the lion heart and Phillippe the 1st of France. A single reusable ticket is available to see both sites and includes an augmented reality ipad that shows you the buildings in times of battle or celebration.
- What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Loches is the most southerly tourist town in the Loire valley so the weather is often some of the best to be had so enjoy the beautiful gardens and views but be sure to visit some of the best chateaux. Amboise, Chenonceau, Blois, Valencay, Villandry , Montpoupon and Montresor are all between 20 mins and an hour away by car.
Reviews
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What a place to stay!
Authentic palace with gilt and silk ceilings and walls. Its like a mini Versailles. The house is so peaceful with lovely gardens and breath taking views yet you can walk out onto the cobbled streets of Loches and enjoy all the shops and stumble back after amazing meals and wine. Thanks we will definitely be back.
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The best week!
Great spot for multi groups families. We had quite a mixed group of ages and interests but the palace delivers! Some people just spent most of the week hanging out in the house and gardens sun bathing and just walked out to the beautiful town for food and attractions. Others were out most days conveniently visiting several chateaux by car and also cycling and canoeing. Something for everyone but incredible tranquil place to call home. Coming back!
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Location, Location, Location
This has been a fantastic place to stay. It is unlike many chateaux rentals in the middle of nowhere, here you are right in the middle of a fairytale walled city. We walked to most attractions and shops and restaurants but it is also well placed to drive to see major chateaux such as chenonceau and Amboise. 10 out of 10.
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
