Chateau De Blau

The setting of Château De Blau is wonderful, in the Haute-Loire region of Auvergne close to remarkable falaises, forests as well as the Allier river and its gorges. Drive down the tree-lined avenue and appreciate the beauty of this 15th-century château sleeping up to 11 guests with its rich heritage, heated swimming pool and over two hectares of parkland.

Originally built in the early 1400s by the Blau family with many additions over the centuries, the château has undergone an impressive recent refurbishment allowing it to become an elegant holiday home which still retains so much of its historic charm. Classified as a Historical Monument, Château De Blau blends tradition and culture with exquisite renovations and modern amenities.  

On the ground floor the characterful dining room juxtaposes perfectly with the modernised kitchen, close to the single bedroom, whilst upstairs a graceful grand salon with historic furnishings sits next to the library with its books, games and billiard table. Climb up the old stone spiral steps to the top two floors for four beautiful bedrooms, each one en suite, all inspired by the château’s past from the 17th century king-size double with views towards the volcanic cliffs to the romantic-style pink room with its tapestries, armchairs and south-facing vistas.

Outside, there’s a gorgeous spot with armchairs for watching the sunset accompanied by an aperitif or two whilst you can dine al-fresco in the castle’s courtyard. The heated swimming pool is another fantastic addition to this historic French château, positioned within the vast grounds which also feature little pathways, ancient trees and glimpses of the Allier, one of France’s longest rivers which meanders nearby.

You will feel well looked after during your stay with cleaning nearly every day and options to arrange breakfast and home-cooked meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, there’s also an excellent French wine list to choose from. Outdoor adventures and excursions can be organised such as electric bike hire, mountain biking trips, visits to châteaux and fortresses, hiking itineraries as well as canoeing, rafting and fishing trips along the Allier.

Set in a little hamlet, there’s a farm shop you can walk to and a charming small village within 4km, passing striking geological features as you drive. Nearby Lavoûte-Chilhac is an ideal spot for river-based watersports and hiking trails whilst Langeac, just over 6km away, is the gateway to the Allier gorges best discovered by canoe, raft or via the tourist train.

Explore further afield within the Massif Central with gorgeous villages and picture-perfect towns including Brioude and Le Puy-en-Velay, the starting point of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrim route. Not to mention the landscapes of the Parc Des Volcans and the famous Puy de Dôme, reached by foot or train - the summit can even be admired from a hot-air balloon, an incredible way to discover the stunning scenery of this part of France.