Les Lodges du Château

We had a wonderful week in Tent Victoria this summer. It’s a lovely place, with the four tents set apart from the Chateau and plenty of privacy. Our tent was one of the biggest, with a wide interior and a nice veranda. We were glad we brought two beach chairs, since the veranda didn’t have four comfortable seats and the other option was sitting on high dining chairs. The pool was about 25 meters long and a comfortable 29 degrees, with plenty of loungers and parasols. We also liked having a Weber barbecue, plus a bakery, small supermarket, and a well-stocked butcher just a few minutes away on foot. There isn’t much else within walking distance. La Rochelle is about 20 minutes away, and Ile de Ré is a bit farther. The tent was well equipped: gas stove, tall fridge with a large freezer compartment, combination microwave, toaster, kettle, coffee maker, and plenty of plates and glasses. No dishwasher, and no Nespresso :-) The shower had both a rain head and a separate handheld one, with good water pressure. There was a mosquito net around the main bedroom bed, but not in the children’s rooms. We didn’t have trouble with mosquitoes, and the bedrooms can be zipped shut. When you arrive through the gates, you park by the Chateau. There’s a table tennis table in the front garden, chickens wandering around, and two cats. Trolleys make it easy to get your luggage to the tent. The owners, Laurence and her husband, were friendly and helpful. Laurence speaks English, though her husband doesn’t. Everything was clean apart from underneath the beds, which could do with more frequent cleaning. That was our only small complaint.

We spent a lovely week at the castle lodges. The pool was fantastic and heated to 27°C, and Laurence and Sébastien made us feel very welcome. Reine and Victoire, the adorable dogs, were an extra delight. The Victoria tent was comfortable, with a good bed and a spacious shower. The pellet stove was especially welcome on chilly evenings. We explored the Charente region and really took to cycling on the Île de Ré. A lovely break away from it all.

The kids were thrilled by the dogs and chickens, and loved having room to roam in the big tent. We appreciated the comfortable bedding and how close it is to La Rochelle. We absolutely loved our short family escape. The lodges are practical and tastefully put together, the owners are warm and attentive, and the beautiful pool sits among lush greenery. It felt idyllic for both families and couples. Go without hesitation, you won’t regret it!

The large pool, local shops, quiet surroundings, and natural setting gave my family everything we needed for a great holiday. The castle and lodges fit together beautifully, and the place has a real charm and authenticity. We got a sincere welcome, with a smile and a mischievous glint that made us want to know the hosts better. They were discreet, but there when needed. As you can probably tell, I highly recommend it for a truly unique, successful holiday.