Château d'Ailly

The host was incredibly welcoming and caring, and the estate itself is impressive. We stayed in this very authentic chateau, where the old stone staircase, our room and the breakfast area all have so much character. It’s an old place, but it’s clean. There’s also a tennis court on the estate, which we would have used if we’d had more time.

Séverine gave us a lovely tour of the outbuildings, event spaces, gardens and chapel before we left, with stories about the chateau’s long history. She and Alec, along with their gorgeous dog Kozac, made us feel at home as soon as we arrived. The grounds are wonderful for a walk, with beautiful views all around, and I can see why people choose it for weddings. Our room was clean, with lovely antiques and heritage decor that suited the chateau. Breakfast was a superb continental spread in the large dining room, including the unusual cornouille jam made on the property from dogwood fruit. The chateau is close to town for essentials or a meal. It was a highlight of our time in France, and we hope we can stay again.

It was amazing to stay in a château with so much history and connections to the present day. The hosts were great, and booked us into a quirky restaurant where the food was excellent.

I was very disappointed. The rooms were cold, worn and noisy, and I found the owner unfriendly. It was very uncomfortable. Don’t waste your money.