Old, mighty, atmospheric – yet so homely. Enormous rooms, high heavy-beamed ceilings, large windows with sensational valley views; terraced gardens and animals; impressive bedrooms up an ancient spiral staircase that sets the imagination reeling; with their handsome wardrobes, polished beds and heated terracotta floors. Twice a week Hélène prepares dinner for guests in her modernised 17th-century tower kitchen (wood-fired range, stone sink, cobbled floor). She makes her own bread, honey, jams and walnut aperitif, and the wines come from their Montpellier vineyard. Stay one night and you’ll wish you’d stayed more.
Set in awe inspiring countryside just 30 minutes South of Grenoble Chateau De Paquier is at the far end of the village Saint-Martin-De-La-Cluze. We arrived after a long drive on a very hot day, this is a peaceful place run by the charming Jacques and Helene, having phoned ahead of arrival we enjoyed Helene's beautifully prepared meal including wine (we are vegetarian, no bother). Breakfast the following morning is equally generous. The grounds are extensive easy to find a place to relax, our bedroom was vast and the ensuite well presented and clean. Loved it