This imposing chateau is embraced by the foothills of the Cevennes and the power of the natural world. Its terraces give sweeping views onto the rustic stones.
This imposing chateau is embraced by the foothills of the Cevennes 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 chateau'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 Cevennes National Park, part of a small hamlet, there are unlimited outdoor adventures within the grounds of the chateau 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.
Main Chateau Interiors
Main Level
Upstairs
Poolside Apartment (two levels)
Upstairs Apartment
Outside Grounds
The nearest airports are Nimes (1hour 20mins) or Montpellier (1hour 45mins) and the nearest market town is Les Vans. The local village of Banne hosts an art festival during the summer and is a meeting point for various guided hikes. The nearest train station is Nimes, but for TGVs or the Eurostar from St Pancras via Paris, Valance TGV (2hours) or Avignon (1hour 40mins) are preferable.
Hiking trails abound, both by setting off directly from the house or by driving a short distance to explore the Cevennes National Park. Head to the medieval village of Banne, explore the deep caves and grotto of la Cocaliere or the rocky outcrops of the Bois de Paiolive. 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 Ardeche 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 Uzes with its famous Saturday market is not to be missed. Just south of Uzes is the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct which once transported water to Nimes 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 Nimes. For wine lovers, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, home to the finest wines of the Rhone valley, is a wonderful outing for a long lunch or wine tasting in the vineyards.