Be surrounded by elegance and history at this village château just outside the incredibly beautiful town of Uzès, within striking distance to Nîmes and the world-famous Pont du Gard.
The setting really is idyllic – the château is in the heart of a traditional village with flower-filled lanes and pretty houses, a little café and shop and even a church and mairie, making it ideal for weddings as well as a relaxing break away. Once you are in the château’s vast grounds, you will feel immediately at ease with its glorious gardens and picturesque views. Listen to the trickle of the water fountain, smell the summer scent of the roses by the gated swimming pool and find shady terraces under century-old trees for a fine glass of Côtes du Rhône. Enjoy barbecues by the summer kitchen feasting al-fresco with close family or friends.
Château Empire has been part of the owner’s family for the past 400 years – it originally dates back to the 17th century and its historic charm is evident today with characterful rooms which have been restored with class and style. Downstairs a superb chef’s kitchen and various reception rooms have doors leading straight out to the magnificent north-facing terrace overlooking the manicured gardens and beyond. Upstairs find six pretty bedrooms with exquisite décor, some with four poster beds, some with en suite bathrooms.
If you can bear to leave your historic idyll, there is so much in this part of southern France to explore. Start in the wonderfully preserved town of Uzès, only 5km away, with its splendid architecture, atmospheric cafes and restaurants as well as its vibrant market on a Saturday morning where you can pick up all sorts of local delights.
Le Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also close by - canoe under one of France’s most famous sights or relax by the riverside with a picnic and amazing views. The Gard river also flows through the breathtaking Gorges du Gardon, perfect for hiking, swimming, rock-climbing, mountain biking and yet more canoeing in superb surroundings.
History lovers will also adore the Roman monuments of the grand city of Nîmes or discover yet more UNESCO World Heritage sites in Avignon, both under an hour away. Taste the wines of the vineyards near Châteauneuf-du-Pape just 45 minutes east or head south to sample some of France’s best olive oil in the villages of Les Alpilles. At Château Empire you are perfectly positioned for a variety of experiences in this alluring part of southern France.
Château Empire can be found in a charming village, only a 5km drive from the historic town of Uzès, in the Gard department of southern France, under an hour from the airports of Nîmes and Avignon.
The village is full of character with pretty lanes, old houses, a café and small shop as well as a church and mairie, ideal if you are planning your wedding here. You are also very close to beautiful Uzès – head there on a Saturday morning for the bustling market in the heart of the old town and discover the town’s many restaurants, cafes and bars. There’s an air of authenticity across the town and the historic buildings have been beautifully preserved – climb to the top of the Bermonde Tower, part of the Duchy of Uzès, for wonderful views of the town and surrounding countryside. Uzès is now a designated ville d’art and visitors come to admire its history and charm.
Drive just fifteen minutes south and you will reach one of the region’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, the magnificent Pont du Gard. This Roman aqueduct is one of France’s most visited historic monuments – head there with a picnic to enjoy by the banks of the Gard river and there are also opportunities to hire canoes and kayaks in this spectacular setting.
Lovers of Roman history will also adore Nîmes, especially the Maison Carrée, one of France’s best preserved temples, and the amazing amphitheatre, Les Arènes. It’s also a great city for lovers of French food with excellent restaurants and a fantastic indoor market. Look out for exhibitions at the contemporary Carré d'Art and make sure you visit the Jardin de La Fontaine, just outside the city centre.
Another highlight of this area are the Gorges du Gardon, wonderful for walking (including a trail through the Sainte-Baume cave!), swimming and canoeing excursions, some of which include the Pont du Gard. There’s some superb rock-climbing and mountain bike trails through the nature reserve.
Avignon (40km) is also easily visited in a day with its vibrant markets and historic monuments including the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. South of Avignon, visit some of the idyllic towns and villages in Provence’s Les Alpilles region such as Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (54km) and Les Baux-de-Provence (55km).
Wine-lovers can explore the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône to the east with Châteauneuf-du-Pape only a 45-minute drive away or discover charming wineries closer to home in Uzès.
Château Interiors (700m2)
Ground Floor
- Formal living room with doors leading to terrace
- Formal dining room
- Lounge with TV
- Fully-equipped kitchen with doors leading to terrace
Upper Floors
- Bedroom with double bed (180cm)
- Bedroom with double bed (160cm)
- Two bedrooms with double beds (150cm)
- Two bedrooms with double beds (140cm)
- Five bathrooms with a bath or shower (four of them are en suite)
Outside Grounds (4000m2)
- Swimming pool (6m x 11m), with access via safety gate
- Gardens
- Terraces
- Water feature
- Covered al-fresco dining area
- Barbecue
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- TV
