Who hasn’t dreamed of owning a chateau in picturesque Provence? Silk merchant Alexandre Eugène Collain always did, and in 1848, having amassed a small fortune, he bought 12 acres of farmland and turned his fantasy into reality. Surrounded by the fertile vineyards and pretty hilltop villages of the unspoilt Cèze Valley, Chateau de Montcaud is both an opulent country hideaway and charming family home. Like many large estates, it fell into disrepair at one point, but new ownership and an extensive renovation have seen Collain’s legacy restored to its former glory.
With its sweeping central staircase, beautiful tiled floors and high frescoed ceilings adorned with antique chandeliers, the chateau is undeniably grand. Tall windows look out over 12 acres of manicured gardens, complete with grotto, lake and ancient trees. Yet the 29 rooms and suites (including a 2-storey gatehouse) are elegant in their simplicity. Meanwhile, the former stables have been converted into a relaxed bistro and epicurean restaurant - fast gaining a reputation for its refined terre et mer cuisine. With sunshine in abundance and the delights of Provence on your doorstep, this chateau will appeal to incurable romantics and discerning gastronomes looking for a cultured break.
Highs
- A historic 5-star chateau-hotel set in 12 acres of pretty landscaped gardens: southern France at its best
- You can choose between a fine-dining restaurant or a classic French bistro; both sound like foodie heaven
- Spacious, light-filled rooms - including family sized suites - with original features and gorgeous ensuite bathrooms
- Lots to do on site: stroll through the grounds, swim in the heated pool, play tennis or boules, or taste wines on the wisteria-covered terrace
- And it's ideally placed for exploring western Provence, including Nîmes, Avignon, Uzès and the Ardèche
Lows
- You’ll need a car to make the most of this spectacular region
- Note the gourmet restaurant is closed on Sunday-Tuesday evenings (but the bistro is open daily, May-Oct)
- The pool is shaded by trees in the morning, though wonderful in the afternoon sun
Best time to go
The chateau is open year-round. Spring (March-May) is pleasantly warm with carpets of wildflowers in bloom. We also love autumn (September-November) when the vendange (grape-harvesting season) is in full swing. Summer (June-August) is busy, with hot sunny days and blissfully warm evenings; it’s the time of year for festivals and you’ll see endless fields of lavender and sunflowers. Winter (December-February) can bring cold mistral winds and snow in the mountains; it's ideal for cosying up next to a roaring fire.
Our top tips
Artists have long been inspired by Provence’s vibrant landscapes and vivid sunlight, and the region is filled with world-class galleries. For something a bit different, take a drive to the sleepy town of Saint-Rémy (1 hour by car) to visit Saint-Paul de Mausole, the psychiatric institution where Van Gogh created some of his most famous works including The Starry Night, Cypresses and Irises. It’s a hauntingly beautiful place.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Beautiful building & lovely grounds. Food was great quality and tasty. Loved the electric bikes and rides around the area.
Charming hotel off the main roads with accommodating staff and wonderful restaurants. Our entire stay (3 days) was delightful, including many hours spent pool-side. A bit rough around the edges as first, but our room was perfect, the grounds fun to roam and explore, including 4 hidden bee hives! We ate at the bistro one night and the fancier gastronomic restaurant the next. Both were excellent. The Swiss couple who own the property live there with their young family and are great hosts. Highly recommended. We will definitely return.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape