Château de Belle Poule

The chateau is a 10-15 minute drive from anything else, which makes it wonderfully quiet. A peacock is probably the likeliest thing to interrupt the peace. The hosts were incredibly friendly and helpful, and our room was spacious and comfortable. There’s an outdoor pool, and when the weather’s good, the hosts will open the bar and pizza oven, so you can have a relaxed evening without leaving the grounds. Breakfast was a good continental spread, and you can use the coffee machine whenever you like. We’d happily come back if we’re in the area.

We had a lovely stay in the B&B, which is in the older, smaller house rather than the grander chateau. The owner made a nice breakfast, including eggs from her own chickens. The bed and bathroom were both good, and the grounds are gorgeous. There are also renovated old farm buildings used for events and weddings. Happy to have helped support the upkeep of this gem.

The mornings started with delicious breakfasts made by Catharine and a small staff, who deserve five stars. Catharine gets ten, and the Chateau five. I also got to meet her son and his wife the next day. They were both lovely, and they showed me around the exceptionally beautiful gardens, full of flowers and ancient trees. When I arrived, Catharine greeted us so warmly. The courtyard was lovely, with peacocks wandering among the flowers and all those roses. I was tired the first evening and didn’t feel like going out, so Catharine offered to cook. She made traditional duck with potatoes and salad, plus lots of French bread. I loved it. Thank you for a wonderful stay, and for letting me feed the peacocks. Warm regards, Kenneth Bordewick

Lovely scenery, a pool, and an excellent breakfast with great service. This little gem is comfortable and well worth the price.