The Secret Hamlet
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Featured in The Guardian's Top 10 Best Foodie Retreats in Rural France.
Your wedding or family holiday will be a true fairytale affair at this estate in the Loi...
Overview
Featured in The Guardian's Top 10 Best Foodie Retreats in Rural France.
Your wedding or family holiday will be a true fairytale affair at this estate in the Loire Valley. Situated on top of a hill and covered in creeping vines, this Old World home has been renovated with the utmost care and taste. The expertly styled interior epitomizes the easy, chic sophistication of ‘art de vivre à la française’.
Guests stay in the six homes that surround the main manor house, each with private gardens and unique character. We especially love the 'Honey House', originally used to manage beehives and extract honey, it’s now a 2 bedroom haven. Another house has a terrace overlooking the river - your large party will love having this 35 acre hamlet (and two swimming pools) to themselves.
Outside, the grounds slope down to the river, where you’ll paddle toward the nearest town or fish beneath the shade of a 450 year old oak tree. Nearby attractions include the Romanesque Abbey in Saint-Savin (10 km), home to well-preserved 11th and 12th century murals. There's natural beauty in abundance at La Brenne Regional Nature Park (30 km) past Le Blanc. Your holiday (or the days before your wedding) can be a time of calm reflection in this peaceful region of France.
| Good news! For a little extra, this property can be booked as a Vill’otel |
|---|
Yey! Wait… what is that? What can be arranged? |
What you should know…
- Guests stay in one of the four houses and two studios set around the estate - please see the Features tab for full details including details of maximum capacity in each home
- If guests wish to self-cater or arrange their own private catering then there will be an extra fee to hire the barn (le pailler) and catering equipment, payable locally
- The Manor House isn't open to guests (other than the bridal suite for weddings), unless you wish to hire the dining area for a special meal (please note some of the photos are of the manor house for this purpose)
- You’ll want a car to fully explore the area although the nearest village is a 20 minute walk
This home is a part of our Sustainable Collection!
To be part of the collection, homes must meet a minimum of four criteria from our sustainable checklist, or three from the checklist and have a daily carbon footprint of 5kg or lower, based on full occupancy per bedroom. View the full collection here >
This home meets the following criteria from our sustainable checklist:
- Supports the local community (locally owned)
- Supports the local community (promotes local businesses)
- Promotes Sustainable Living (Recycling)
- Protects and conserves local Heritage
Property Features
The Estate consists of four houses and two studios set around the main manor house, sleeping up to 24 guests in 11 bedrooms. Each home has its own personality and atmosphere, all set along a river and amidst peaceful green gardens and the surrounding fields.
In the grounds, Le Pailler is a barn where group meals can take place - this is included in the rental price for guests who are catered for by the owners whilst self-catering guests can pay a supplement to use this dining space.
Two-storey loft with river view (3 bedrooms, max. cap: 6)
- Large living quarters on ground floor
- Large kitchen
- 2 x double bedrooms
- Twin beds on mezzanine
- One bathroom with bath
- Two bathrooms with shower
- Bow windows opening on to river
- Private garden with terrace
Three-storey loft with river view (2 bedrooms, max. cap: 4-5)
- Large living quarters on ground floor
- 2 x double bedrooms and sofa-bed (for one person) on open space mezzanine
- One bathroom
- Low level summer kitchen opening on to terrace overlooking river
The Little House (2 bedrooms, max. cap: 5)
- Open-plan living room with fireplace and dining area
- Double bedroom
- Triple bedroom
- Bathroom with bath
- Bathroom with shower
- First floor semi-opened terrace overlooking swimming pool and river
The Orangery (max. cap: 4)
- Large living room
- Sitting room with fireplace
- 2 x double bedrooms
- Bathroom with bath
- Bathroom with shower
- Private enclosed garden
The Artist's Studio (Studio bedroom, max. cap: 2)
- 40m2 ground floor studio
- Bedroom area (river side of studio)
- Small kitchen area
- Open-plan living area
- Bathroom with walk-in shower
The Stable Studio (Studio bedroom, max. cap: 2)
- 40m2 ground floor studio
- Suitable for guests with reduced mobility
- Double bedroom area
- Shower room
For wedding packages, the bridal suite is also made available in the Manor House.
Outside Grounds
- 2 x swimming pools
- BBQ
- Garden furnishings
- Le Pailler/barn for communal dining (included with catering services)
- Large reception barn (for events)
- 35 acres of private grounds
- River access
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Satellite TV (with English channels)
- Hi-Fi
- Fridge, microwave, oven, coffee machine, kettle in each house
- Cutlery, crockery and cooking utensils
- Washing machine
Extra Sustainability Gems About the Property
The property is part of the local heritage Saint Victor, and dates from the late XVth /early XVIth century, and the renovations have all been made with sustainable materials.
Location
About the surrounding area of The Secret HamletSituated at the border of the Berry and Poitou regions and only one hour away from the Loire Valley, The Secret Hamlet sits on the top of a woody hill softly sloping down to the left bank of a beautiful river.
The owners are happy to create personalised itineraries to help you discover Berry and the Poitou Region. History, antique chasing, restaurants, painting, gardening and cooking are all available on request.
Activities on the property include canoeing, kayaking and fishing – permit available.
Activities around the estate include rich cultural and historical sites, golf, hunting, horseback riding, tennis, cycling, walking, and fauna and flora in the Parc de la Brenne.
The local village is 1.5 km away and has a bar/restaurant, a grocery store and a post office.
Towns nearby include Le Blanc (11km), Argenton sur Creuse (45km), Châteauroux (65km), Poitiers (50km), Châtellerault (40km).
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Poitiers–Biard Airport
(64km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
(8km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(4km) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local village
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Shop |
Grocery store
(1.5km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Le Blanc
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
(4km) |
||
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 AgesBaby and Toddler Equipment
- Stair gates
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
- Baby Proofing
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
Onsite Facilities
- Badminton
- Child-Safe Pool
- Outdoor Games
- DVD
- Fenced Grounds
- Waterfront
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Available
| Good news! This property is available as a Vill’otel |
|---|
With a vill’otel holiday, you can enjoy all these services throughout your stay: Interested? |
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
Services available at this property:
- Catering services include picnics, buffets, sit-down meals, baskets of local food etc.
- If guests wish to self-cater or arrange their own private catering then a fee will be applicable to hire the open barn (le pailler) and catering equipment, payable locally
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
The Secret Hamlet
On top of a hill with splendid grounds sloping down towards the river, this old...
Read moreEvent information
The Secret Hamlet
On top of a hill with splendid grounds sloping down towards the river, this old turreted château, caressed by creeping vines, has been beautifully renovated and was featured as one of the best foodie retreats in rural France. With an inherited peaceful ambiance combined with more recently added sophistication and flair, this luxurious and peaceful castle and hamlet near the Loire Valley is just perfect for a memorable fairy tale wedding. Six lovely homes surround the main château, meaning up to 26 guests can stay on site and enjoy everything this special place has to offer.
Wedding Reception
A reception with over 100 people could take place in the Byre/stables or there is an open barn (Le Pailler) where up to 80 people can be hosted for a sit-down meal.
Both venues have a dance floor and a marquee can be added, subject to regulations. Music can play outside until 11pm or in the Byre/Le Pailler until 2am.
Wedding Ceremony
The ceremony could take place in the gardens or in one of the barns.
The owners are able to provide details of an English-speaking celebrant.
Tables, benches and chairs in the venues can be used - details can be provided by the owner.
Where to Stay
Up to 26 people can sleep on-site (up to 24 guests in the cottages and studios as well as a bridal suite in the château) and the venue will recommend nearby accommodation for the guests not sleeping on the estate.
The owners can supply details of local transport firms.
Wedding Planning
The owners are able to provide different levels of help and can suggest suppliers. Wedding packages are available but a full wedding planning service (e.g. management of the event on the day) is not available. The client may also recommend planners.
Catering
There is an in-house restaurant but table d’hôtes catering services are provided for breakfasts, brunches, buffet meals, sit-down meals and picnics with ad hoc staff to prepare, clear and clean.
Tables, chairs, linen, cutlery and glasses can be provided by the owner for up to 26 residential guests but any further equipment must be rented for weddings with larger numbers.
Self-catering for weddings is not permitted.
Other information
A hired marquee is possible at the venue, if this is your choice, but it’s not necessary as a back-up for bad weather.
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 | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner at the time of paying the final balance and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.30 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid via bank transfer to the owner at the time of paying the final balance and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.30 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Included in the rental price. During winter there may be an additional charge depending on consumption, payable locally. |
| Linen & towels included? | All linen and bath towels are included in the rental price. Linen changes possible, subject to charges, payable locally. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. Please note pets are not permitted when the estate is booked for a wedding. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days, including weekend rental, on request. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Extra €50 per house, €25 per studio and €100 for Le Pailler/open-barn (and reception room if used), payable locally. 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? | Not allowed. |
| Insurance | The client must be insured with an insurance company for cancellations and his rental liabilities, bodily injury, personal injury, losses or property damage caused to the rented property or its contents or adjoining property. A copy of the insurance policy has to be given prior to arrival. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A rental contract is to be signed with the owner of the estate. A copy of detailed insurance policies (as indicated above) must also be given to the owner prior to arrival, at the time of paying the final balance. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Minimum stay | 2 nights in May and mid-September to mid-October. 7 nights during all other periods. |
| Other Ts and Cs | If guests wish to self-cater or arrange their own private catering then a fee of €100 per day will be applicable to hire the open barn (le pailler), payable locally |
| 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. |
| 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. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 24 people:
| Rental period | 2 Nights | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 28th 2022 - Sep 14th 2022 | - | - | - | - | £9,037 |
| Sep 14th 2022 - Oct 14th 2022 | £4,519 | £5,422 | £6,326 | £7,229 | £9,037 |
| Oct 14th 2022 - Jan 1st 2023 | - | - | - | - | £9,037 |
| Jan 1st 2023 - May 1st 2023 | - | - | - | - | £9,867 |
| May 1st 2023 - Jun 1st 2023 | £4,934 | £5,921 | £6,907 | £7,894 | £9,867 |
| Jun 1st 2023 - Sep 13th 2023 | - | - | - | - | £9,867 |
| Sep 13th 2023 - Oct 13th 2023 | £4,934 | £5,921 | £6,907 | £7,894 | £9,867 |
| Oct 13th 2023 - Dec 30th 2023 | - | - | - | - | £9,867 |
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?
I took over the house in 1981
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I fell in love with this secre...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
I took over the house in 1981
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
I fell in love with this secret place 35 years ago, and was completely besotted by the old oak mastering the river. The house was a wreck, I had no money, passion pushed me, bank loans pulled me… our house came back to life.
Respectful of the harmony between man and nature we have renovated the houses and the gardens to offer a bit of true “art de vivre à la française”… My 3 children and I have decided to open up the family circle to others, to share unique moments.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
Yes, many, but it is theirs and our secret!
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do?
Discover our Natural Reserve - Parc Régional de la Brenne. Cycling, canoeing down the rivers, horseback riding, walking, bird and butterfly watching, parachuting, rock climbing. Swim, read, play music, cook, go wine tasting, go to markets….
Really eat?
All the local delicacies including paté, cheese, meats, seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Really see?
The area is abundant with history, architecture, culture, villages, markets...
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
"Do you know that charming part of our country which has been called the garden of France, that spot where amid verdant plains watered by wide streams, one inhales the purest air of heaven.” Alfred de Vigny.
Reviews
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Thoroughly enjoyable
We enjoyed our break at The Secret Hamlet very much, Marie made us very welcome and arranged some food and wine on our arrival at one of the number of houses you can book for a weekend or longer. It is in a quiet and peaceful location but not far from towns with plenty to do and see.
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Amazing!
Amazing, magical and marvellous place in center of France. If you crave for beauty, privacy and romantism, I think it's perfect for weddings or a week-end away. Marie was such a wonderful help for us. Thank you for everything.
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Lovely place to stay
Very nice atmosphere, ambience with flair, friendly people, fantastic place to stay. Beautiful rooms, each with their own flair. Lovely people that make you feel at home and relaxed.
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Simply Perfect
What a wonderful place to stay in Ingrandes. The chateau with the houses, lovely gardens and the very charming hosts Marie and Ursula. You can ask them everything and they will help you. The attention to detail everywhere was delightful. Marie and Ursula cooked a delicious meal for us! We will come back, it's an oasis for all who loves peaceful moments, good food, wine, music and art. You can feel the past in this surrounding and that makes it very special. "Art de vivre" (like the French people say).
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.
