A large group of us (10 adults and 19 Children) stayed in Chateau de Montsymond for a week at the end of August. To say the property is impressive would be a huge understatement. It has been very recently refurbished by the proprietor Christophe Gay to an incredibly high standard. And as you approach it from the driveway, the sheer size and grandeur of the chateau was truly striking.

The layout of the ground floor works incredibly well as a communal area, with a superbly equipped kitchen leading out onto a terrace covered by an enormous parasol, beyond which is a heated pool. The ground floor also has separate pool and poker rooms, and a converted stable with offers steam room, sauna, and gym.

Because of the size of the Chateau, the bedrooms (all 10 with en suite bathrooms) all feel nicely detached from each other so feel sufficiently private. The well equipped games room and the cinema from on the top floor make it an ideal large group family break, particularly well suited for children aged 5-12. However, for the parents, Christophe’s superb level of hospitality and wine expertise was a great thing to be able to take advantage of. All guests are invited to his private home in order to share a glass of his wine and tour his wine cellar. For the wine enthusiasts, his cellar is a real joy to experience, particularly as he allows guests to purchase some wines (many of which are rare, old, and very difficult to source) at a discounted price should they wish.

I have stayed in a number of chateaus across France now, and none have come near to this level of quality at this price point. Very highly recommended.