Description

This imposing château 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 château’s 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 château 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.

The nearest airports are Nîmes (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 Nîmes, 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 Cocalière 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 Ardèche 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 won’t want to miss the newly opened (in 2022) Anselm Kiefer Eschaton Foundation in Barjac (30km), housed in the great artist’s former studio, once a silk factory, which has never previously been opened to the public. Now visitors can tour the building’s towers, tunnels and studios as well as admiring the contemporary artwork.




Further afield, the elegant town of Uzès with its famous Saturday market is not to be missed. Just south of Uzès is the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct which once transported water to Nîmes 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 Nîmes. For wine lovers, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, home to the finest wines of the Rhône valley, is a wonderful outing for a long lunch or wine tasting in the vineyards.

Main Château Interiors


Main Level




-    Central lounge with large fireplace and long dining table. Door leads to fountain terrace and garden below


-    Kitchen and pantry, fully-equipped


-    2 x bedrooms with double beds


-    Bathroom



Upstairs




-    Master bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom


-    2 x bedrooms with double bed


-    Yoga and ballroom with ping-pong table


-    Office (not accessible to guests)


-    Bathroom



Poolside Apartment (two levels)




-    Sitting room


-    Kitchenette


-    Bedroom with terrace overlooking pool


-    Bedroom with double bed


-    Bedroom with twin beds


-    Bathroom



Upstairs Apartment




-    Sitting room (with sink and fridge)


-    2 x bedrooms with double beds


-    Bedroom with twin beds


-    Bathroom



Outside Grounds




-    Heated swimming pool (21m long) which is secured via locking terrace doors


-    Poolside terrace with sun loungers


-    WC and outside shower


-    Upper covered terrace with dining table for up to 20 guests


-    Pergola with small table (four guests)


-    Fountain terrace


-    North terrace with al-fresco dining table (for 8 guests), sofas and valley views


-    Vast grounds (including steps/different levels) Facilities -    Wi-Fi


-    Fans


-    Heaters (on request for cooler months)


-    Ping-pong