Chateau De L'Empereur
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Overview
Book with Confidence
Simply request a change of dates should Coronavirus related travel restrictions mean your holiday cannot go ahead. T&Cs apply
To stay in the historic Château de L’Empereur will be an unforgettable experience. Set in 125 acres of glorious parkland, guests will not only stay in a sensitively renovated 17th-century château but also experience the 5* hospitality of its outstanding hosts.
The château has a fascinating history: Emperor Joseph II, the brother of Marie-Antoinette, stayed there in the late 18th century and it also played a vital role as a hospital for the wounded in World War II. In more recent years it has been beautifully restored to its former glory with 16 classically styled bedrooms, each with their own impressive bathroom plus two exquisite drawing rooms, a romantic dining room and a welcoming chef’s kitchen-diner.
Despite the rich historical ambience, splendid 21st-century features include an indoor swimming pool, perfect for winter days by the pool’s roaring fire, a large Jacuzzi, two saunas, a yoga space plus a spa and massage room as well as an impressive home cinema room for up to 40 guests who can watch the big screen under the vaulted ceiling. In the summer months you can spend leisurely days by the outdoor swimming pool with glorious views of the surrounding parkland.
The exceptional hosts have a wealth of experience in providing high-end service in superb settings and here is no different. Breakfast is served each morning, maid service is included and the hosts are discrete and ready to provide you with any help you may need.
Their aim is to provide guests with authentic luxury experiences whether it is hiring a Michelin-starred chef to prepare a meal as you watch in the open kitchen-diner, arrange for a hot-air balloon to whisk you away from the château’s grounds or even organise maids and butlers to serve each of the 16 bedrooms. One of the specialities of the castle is their large collection of wonderful costumes which can be hired, tailored and worn at a masked ball by candle-light for a truly unique and unforgettable event.
The glorious grounds offer 125 acres of parkland filled with lawns, woods, ponds, streams and wildlife such as birds, rabbits and wild deer roaming free. Go for long walks as the children explore their surroundings, find a quiet place to sit in the shade of the ancient trees or listen to the trickle of the fountain and stream.
It will be hard to leave this paradise, yet there is so much of Normandy to explore such as historical Bayeux within half an hour, the old University city of Caen, the pretty seaside towns of Deauville and Honfleur and the stunning granite island of Mont St Michel. Not to mention the wonderful wide sandy beaches along the north coast, including many of the D-Day landing beaches within an hour's drive.
There is of course hiking, cycling and horse-riding opportunities across the region as well as brilliant golf courses and an array of water-sports along the coast.
That said, whether it’s a celebration, a unique wedding or a special holiday with loved ones, it will be hard to leave the historical surroundings, contemporary features and the warm hospitality of the remarkable Château de L’Empereur.
What you should know…
- The vast and glorious grounds feature ponds, paths, streams, old farm buildings, woods and lawns – lovely for supervised children (and adults!) to explore
- Two of the 16 bedrooms will only be available from March 2019 (until then two bedrooms will be available in the 'lodge')
- Car hire is essential to be able to make the most of this fascinating region
Property Features
Château Interior (2000m2)
Ground Floor
- Open-plan kitchen-diner (50m2)
- Indoor swimming pool (10x3m, depth 1.5m) with concurrent swimming device
- Screening room (40 capacity) featuring 7.1 surround system, PS4 games console and satellite TV
- Gym/yoga room
- Indoor marble Jacuzzi (15 capacity)
First Floor
- Drawing room (70m2)
- Drawing room (55m2)
- Dining room (65m2)
- Office
- Massage room
- Room One: Suite with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower
Second Floor
- Room Two: Suite with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower
- Room Three: Suite with 2 x twin/double beds (200x200cm each) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. Sleeps up to 4 guests
- Room Four: Suite with twin/double bed (200x200cm), single bed and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. Sleeps up to 3 guests
- Room Five: Double room with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite shower room
- Room Six: Double room with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite shower room
- Room Seven: Double room with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower
- Room Eight: Double room with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite shower room
- Room Nine: Double room with twin/double bed (200x200cm) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. Room for a cot
- Room Ten: Double room with twin/double bed (180x190cm) and ensuite shower room. Room for a cot
Mezzanine Floor
- Room Eleven: Double room with double bed (140x190cm) and ensuite bathroom
- Room Twelve: Double room with double bed (180x190cm) and room for a cot. Private bathroom next door
Third Floor
- Room Thirteen: Quad room with 2 x twin/double beds (200x200cm each) and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. Sleeps up to 4 guests
- Room Fourteen: Mezzanine room with double bed, 3 x single beds and ensuite bathroom with bath and walk-in shower. Sleeps up to 5 guests plus room for a cot
- Room Fifteen (ready March 2019): Cosy suite with main room and children's room with twin beds. Ensuite bathroom with shower
- Room Sixteen (ready March 2019): Double room with ensuite bathroom with shower.
Outside Grounds
- Outdoor swimming pool (20x4m, 1.5m deep) with Jacuzzi area and concurrent swimming device. Rolling safety shutter. Open 1st May to end of September
- BBQ
- Fountain
- Walled orchard with 18th century folly and orangery
- 125 acre parkland featuring woods, ponds and wildlife
- Farm/outbuildings
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Lift
- Screening / home cinema room
- PS4 game console
- Satellite TV
- Indoor marble Jacuzzi
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pool
- Gym/yoga room
- Table-tennis
- Saunas (two types)
- Massage room
Château de L’Empereur is located in 125 acres of beautiful parkland featuring woods, fields, pond...
| Nearest Airport |
Caen-Carpiquet/Paris Charles-de-Gaulle
(25km/285km) |
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Caen-Ouistreham
(45km) |
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Bayeux/Gare de Caen
(25km/30km) |
Location
About the surrounding area of Chateau De L'EmpereurChâteau de L’Empereur is located in 125 acres of beautiful parkland featuring woods, fields, ponds and wildlife such as rabbits, deer and birds.
It’s only 1.7km to the local village where you will find a bakery, a couple of restaurants and other shops including two supermarkets on the outskirts, close to the château. The village has an interesting history relating to World War Two and is included in some of the Battle of Normany tour guides of the region.
This is a fantastic location for exploring the nearby sights of Normandy. It is an especially great base for exploring the D-Day Landing beaches which are just a short drive away. Arromanches (36km) and Omaha (47km) are examples of two beaches of historical importance as well as the batteries and cliffs of Longues-sur-Mer (35km) just north of Bayeux.
The historic town of Bayeux (27km) is well known for the UNESCO classified Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman’s conquest of England. It is a beautiful town with many renowned restaurants, historical buildings and interesting museums about this fascinating part of Normandy.
Heading north some of Normandy’s prettiest towns are along the coastline such as the elegant seaside resort of Deauville (77km) and Honfleur (93km), one of Normandy’s most picturesque spots, making the perfect coastal day trip.
Along the coast you’ll also find numerous long wide sandy beaches within half an hour or head to the rugged cliffs a little further away. Sand yachting is very popular on the coast with centres in Asnelles (37km) plus there are other watersports such as kayaking, diving, sailing and stand-up paddling nearby.
Golf-lovers can enjoy a number of stunning Norman golf courses across this region, including Omaha Beach Golf (36km) whilst there are some beautiful walks plus cycling trails to follow. Horse-riding is a popular pursuit in the region with the particularly well-regarded Pole International Du Cheval within an hours drive.
Of course, Normandy is the home of timeless villages, idyllic châteaux and amazing regional cuisine. Drive east to the archetypal Norman village of Beuvron-en-Auge with its half-timbered houses and an award winning typical restaurant, combined with a visit to Château de Crèvecoeur and museum (62km). Other worthy châteaux in the region include Balleroy Castle (24km) and Château Vendeuvre (60km), classed as one of France’s historic monuments.
Be sure to visit one of the fine Calvados cellars and learn how the drink is made and combine with a farm that offers regional dairy products to sample; private tours can be arranged.
Other highlights include one of France's oldest University cities, Caen (30km), the seaside town of Deauville (77km) from the 'la belle époque' era and the stunning granite island of Mont St Michel (100km).
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Caen-Carpiquet/Paris Charles-de-Gaulle
(25km/285km) |
||
| Nearest Ferry Port |
Caen-Ouistreham
(45km) |
||
| Nearest Train Station |
Gare de Bayeux/Gare de Caen
(25km/30km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
(1.6km/25-min walk) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
In the village
(1.7km/25-min walk) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
(800m) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Bayeux/Caen
(27km/30km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Arromanches-les-Bains
(36km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Omaha Beach Golf
(36km) |
||
Region
History and gastronomy go hand-in-hand in Normandy, making it a great choice if culture and fine dining are what you’re looking for in a holiday! There’s still plenty on offer besides the food and tales of yesteryear, however – you can take a tour around some of the beautiful inland towns and villages or head to the coast, where you’ll find a mixture of wide sandy beaches and rugged, romantic cliffs. If you’re not already convinced to head to one of our villas in Normandy (or maybe if you’ve already booked) you’ll find a wealth of great things to do, see and eat in our ultimate Normandy travel guide!
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesNormandy is a wonderful place for kids with wide sandy beaches, historical sites and beautiful villages, towns and cities to explore.
There are countless châteaux and historical monuments across the region including William the Conqueror’s fortress at Falaise (48km) and so much history relating to the Second World War including the D-Day Landing Beaches in Arromanches (36km) and Omaha (47km).
Kids who have learnt about the Bayeux Tapestry can visit the UNESCO classified piece in Bayeux (27km) and visit other historical towns and museums in the town.
Younger ones will enjoy a day trip to Cherbourg for the City of the Sea, exploring the depths of the sea in a fantastic museum, around ninety minutes by car.
Of course there are the wide stretches of sandy beaches to the north and rugged cliffs a little further. Sand yachting is very popular on the coast with centres in Asnelles (37km) plus there are other watersports such as kayaking, diving, sailing and stand-up paddling nearby.
Horse-riding is a popular pursuit in the region with the particularly well-regarded Pole International Du Cheval within an hours drive.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Booster seat
- Cot(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Fishing
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Xbox/Playstation
- Child-Safe Pool
- Heated Pool
- Indoor Pool
- Lift
- Indoor Games
- Table Tennis
- Home Cinema
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- Breakfast Included
Extras
Oliver's Extras
- Catering Available
- Chef/Cook Available
- Maid Service Included
- On-Site Concierge
- Breakfast Included
- Dedicated Masseuse 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):
- Breakfast is included
- A Michelin-star chef can be booked including watching or partaking in the preparation of the meals in the open kitchen-diner
- A chef for specific dietary requirements such as kosher, gluten-free,vegetarian etc
- 3 hours of maid service is included per day however you can increase this to your needs. You may even have one maid per room if you desire
- You can elaborate your own wine cellar
- Enjoy a costume ball by candle-light in the drawing rooms
- Hire a number of period costumes which can be altered to your size
- Choose a partner brand for the spa areas
- Book the dedicated masseuse
- Musicians/ballet dancers and other entertainers
- Hot-air balloon rides from the grounds
- Excursions and activities in the area
- Personal tour guides
- Personal transportation
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
A wedding at this venue in Normandy was recently described as a “Garden of Eden experience”, no ...
Read moreEvent information
A wedding at this venue in Normandy was recently described as a “Garden of Eden experience”, no doubt helped by 125 acres of beautiful parkland with streams and fountains, stunning interiors and an indoor swimming pool. Apart from its elegance and beauty, this 17C recently renovated château in Normandy has a very experienced team of planners if you are daunted by the task of organising your event from afar. An intimate reception can be held in the elegant drawing room or larger gatherings could wine and dine beneath a marquee in the grounds in front of a magically illuminated château. There’s definitely more than a touch of paradise here to provide a lifetime of memories.
Wedding Reception
Over 100 people can be hosted in the château gardens for an outdoor reception, alternatively up to 40 people can be seated inside the château.
Inside the drawing room of the château there is space for 60 people to dance or, for groups of up to 40 guests, dancing can continue in the kitchen on the ground floor. Larger groups could dance inside a hired marquee in the grounds. Music is able to continue at any location until as late as you like with no noise restrictions as this château.
Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony can take place in the grounds of the château or there are several churches within 20km.
The owners can provide an English-speaking celebrant.
Where to Stay
Up to 40 people are able to sleep on site.
Accommodation for up to 40 guests not sleeping at the château can be found within 2km and there are countless possibilities of accommodation for the remaining guests, within 30km of the château.
The owners are able to supply details of local transport firms.
Wedding Planning
The owners can recommend an event planner or the client may supply their own.
The owners are able to supply local supplier contacts and in particular have a local florist to recommend.
Catering
The owners can recommend caterers or clients may arrange their own.
Other information
Marquee hire is required for seated groups of over 40 people.
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 | €5000 paid to the owner by bank transfer one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €5000 paid to the owner by bank transfer one month before arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 5.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 11.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes. |
| Heating costs included? | Yes. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes, changed every four nights. |
| 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 garbage disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Changeover day | Flexible. |
| Minimum stay | 3 nights. |
| Pets welcome? | Not allowed. |
| Smoking Allowed? | No. |
| Other Ts and Cs | The outdoor swimming pool is open from 1st May to 30th September. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are are only possible when booking the whole estate. Any event rental is on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. A supplement will apply in the event of guests in addition to those staying at the château. |
| Tax | French Visitors Tax payable locally (typically costs €1-€3 per adult per night- please enquire if exact amount is required). |
| Pool towels included? | Yes. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 40 people:
| Rental period | 3 Nights | 4 Nights | 5 Nights | Weekly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 31st 2020 - Jan 1st 2021 | £13,308 | £16,575 | £19,842 | £28,966 |
| Jan 1st 2021 - Dec 2nd 2021 | £13,308 | £16,575 | £19,842 | £28,966 |
Please note that prices may not be 100% accurate for dates outside of the current calendar year. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
How long have you owned the property?
5 years (since January 2014)
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The château combines a grand...
Owner Profile
How long have you owned the property?
5 years (since January 2014)
What was it about the property that you first fell in love with?
The château combines a grandeur that strikes you upon arrival with a brightness inside even when the weather is gloomy. You feel good in this house and we did even before we renovated it.
Are there any interesting stories in its history?
The Château consists of two buildings. The first one was completed in 1637, then in 1766 it was flanked by a wing. A second, symmetric wing was planned until the French Revolution brought this project to a halt. In 1777 Frederic II, Archduke of Austria and future Holy Roman Emperor, and the brother of Queen Marie- Antoinette stayed at the Chateau on his visit to France. During the WW2, the Château served as a hospital and thus was spared during the bombings. Later on, it became a maternity hospital where 450 were born.
Have you ever had any famous guests staying?
HRH Henri d'Orléans, Count of Paris, Duke of France, who would be King of France was the French crown not defunct.
For anyone coming to stay is there anything in the surrounding area they should...
Really do? Spend a day in Deauville
Really eat? Crêpes, local cheeses, calvados liquor. And for amateurs the “andouille de Vire”
Really see? the Mont Saint-Michel and some D-Day sites
What insider tip would you pass on about the property or the area?
Alternate a sightseeing day with one chilling at the château!
Reviews
-
Magical time
We had a magical time at this beautiful Chateau. We were a party of 38 - children and adults all had a wonderful time. Sylvain went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect for us. Highly recommend!
-
60th Birthday Bash
This was truly an amazing experience, that was everything we dreamed of! Our hosts Axel and Sylvain welcomed us in their own unique way, which included a wonderful whistle stop tour of the history of this remarkable Chateau. Our party of 26 were able to enjoy the full extent of the fabulous facilities during our 3 night stay. One of the highlights was enjoying a delicious breakfast, which catered for every possible need, in the magnificent dining room. Credit for this goes to Chantelle, the incredible housekeeper, who looked after us during each day's 2 hour leisurely breakfast.
-
Best, just the best!
We have just returned from our honeymoon and having digested our experience at the chateau last week, we would like to provide you with our feedback. To avoid all the flattering getting lost in translation, I am writing this in English. The headline and conclusion is that we are extremely happy and we both feel that we had a "fairytale wedding" that far exceeded our wildest dreams and expectations. We also get very consistent feedback from all our guests that the atmosphere you have been able to create is really unique and gave everyone a pleasant break from "real life". My mum even refers to it as a "Garden of Eden experience" and several guests have also said that they will definitely come back on a later occasion. As you can imagine you got a lot of ambassadors from this wedding and I will encourage you to refer to us if any potential customers ask for reference. We will definitely convince them! A heartfelt thank you from both of us for a fantastic wedding arrangement! We will definitely be back!
Don't miss out! Reserve now and get a full refund if you change your mind within 48hrs.