This imposing chùteau is embraced by the foothills of the Cévennes and the power of the natural world. Its terraces give sweeping views onto the rustic stones, surrounding forests and rocky outcrops which are characteristic of this part of the Languedoc.
Sleeping from 2 to 20 guests, the chĂąteauâs ample common areas make it perfect for convivial family reunions or gatherings of friends whilst a flexible pricing option outside high season allows a couple or smaller group to enjoy this very special home.
The 21-metre long private pool is the centrepiece of outdoor life. No less stunning is the immense covered terrace above the pool, with a dining table that can seat 20 guests in view of the setting sun. The 11 bedrooms are comfortably furnished, while the enormous kitchen, beautifully updated in sympathy with the rustic stones from which the house was built, is a special treat where you can cook and dine with friends.
Tucked on the edge of the Cévennes National Park, part of a small hamlet, there are unlimited outdoor adventures within the grounds of the chùteau and within a short drive by exploring the rivers, grottos and charming villages nearby. The nearest village is Banne, followed by the market towns of St Ambroix and Les Vans.
Furthermore, don't miss a visit to the newly opened Anselm Kiefer Eschaton Foundation in Barjac, an extraordinary place to admire the great artist's contemporary work in his impressive former studio, once a silk factory.
This holiday retreat is also heaven for hiking, river rafting, lounging by the pool or just being quiet and listening to the sounds of nature.
Features:
Main ChĂąteau Interiors
Main Level
-Â Â Â Central lounge with large fireplace and long dining table. Door leads to fountain terrace and garden below
-Â Â Â Kitchen and pantry, fully-equipped
-Â Â Â 2 x bedrooms with double beds
-Â Â Â Bathroom
Upstairs
-Â Â Â Master bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom
-Â Â Â 2 x bedrooms with double bed
-Â Â Â Yoga and ballroom with ping-pong table
-Â Â Â Office (not accessible to guests)
-Â Â Â Bathroom
Poolside Apartment (two levels)
-Â Â Â Sitting room
-Â Â Â Kitchenette
-Â Â Â Bedroom with terrace overlooking pool
-Â Â Â Bedroom with double bed
-Â Â Â Bedroom with twin beds
-Â Â Â Bathroom
Upstairs Apartment
-Â Â Â Sitting room (with sink and fridge)
-Â Â Â 2 x bedrooms with double beds
-Â Â Â Bedroom with twin beds
-Â Â Â Bathroom
Outside Grounds
-Â Â Â Heated swimming pool (21m long) which is secured via locking terrace doors
-Â Â Â Poolside terrace with sun loungers
-Â Â Â WC and outside shower
-Â Â Â Upper covered terrace with dining table for up to 20 guests
-Â Â Â Pergola with small table (four guests)
-Â Â Â Fountain terrace
-Â Â Â North terrace with al-fresco dining table (for 8 guests), sofas and valley views
-Â Â Â Vast grounds (including steps/different levels)
Facilities
-Â Â Â Wi-Fi
-Â Â Â Fans
-Â Â Â Heaters (on request for cooler months)
-Â Â Â Ping-pong
Location:
The nearest airports are NĂźmes (approx 1 hour 35 mins) or Montpellier (approx 1 hour 45 mins) It's a 5 minute's drive from the medieval village of Banne and 10 minute drive south of the market town of Le Vans. The nearest train station is NĂźmes, but for TGVs or the Eurostar from St Pancras via Paris, Valance TGV (approx. 2 hours) or Avignon (approx. 1 hour 50 mins) are preferable.
Hiking trails abound, both by setting off directly from the house or by driving a short distance to explore the Cévennes National Park. Head to the medieval village of Banne, explore the deep caves and grotto of la CocaliÚre or the rocky outcrops of the Bois de Païolive. Swim in the 21-metre pool or take a short drive to an idyllic swimming hole, complete with enormous rocks and a waterfall.
There are tennis courts in St. Paul le Jeune and les Vans. The vast surrounding hills and valleys with their quiet roads present miles of cycling in unspoiled scenery amid wildflowers, wildlife, and few human encounters. The ArdĂšche river with its famous Pont d'Arc is a short drive away, where it is easy to rent canoes to spend the day floating down the river or sunbathing on its shores.
Art-lovers wonât want to miss the newly opened (in 2022) Anselm Kiefer Eschaton Foundation in Barjac (30km), housed in the great artistâs former studio, once a silk factory, which has never previously been opened to the public. Now visitors can tour the buildingâs towers, tunnels and studios as well as admiring the contemporary artwork.
Further afield, the elegant town of UzĂšs with its famous Saturday market is not to be missed. Just south of UzĂšs is the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct which once transported water to NĂźmes and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the beautiful walled city of Avignon to learn about the history of the Papacy in France and to enjoy its chic shops or explore the historic Roman amphitheatre of NĂźmes. For wine lovers, ChĂąteauneuf-du-Pape, home to the finest wines of the RhĂŽne valley, is a wonderful outing for a long lunch or wine tasting in the vineyards.
Terms & Conditions:
?
âŹ100 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection.
4.00 p.m.
10.00 a.m.
Yes, water and electricity are included.
Yes, including pool towels.
Not allowed.
Weddings, stag/hen parties and other celebrations are not permitted.
Please note that outside caterers are not permitted without prior agreement. The staff on site can arrange meals.
Drones are not allowed at this property.
Please note that the lower, 10-person price is not available during high season. When the 10-person option is booked, some rooms may not be accessible and this remains at the owner's discretion. Please enquire should you require details.
Please note that the maximum number of guests of any age may not exceed 20.
Saturday.
No. âŹ600 extra, paid locally in cash to the on-site guardian. This is for a standard changeover clean and linen change. 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.
Outside only.
Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, personal belongings, personal liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay.
7 nights.
Central heating is not available, however heaters can be provided on request.
Included. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures.
The house does have Wi-Fi but due to the rural location the signal can often be poor.
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.
Smoking - not allowed