Another fairy-tale castle. A hunting lodge in the 15th century, it acquired its turrets, facade and its slightly roguish charm at the end of the 18th century. Today, Anny and Alain make a living from accommodating tourists. Six rooms named after writers, a reading room and a beautiful library attest to the owners' passion for literature.

The table d'hôte laden with regional produce and gourmet cookery classes given by Jean-Jacques Bornes, Meilleur Ouvrier de France, ensure that the local food is not forgotten.  A stroll in the park before returning to chemin de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle, a dip in the pool or exercising in the fitness center located on the ground floor of the castle: this very cozy place is also the ideal starting point of a visit to the region.

Contact et informations: http://www.chateaudelamotte.net  
42640 Noailly
Tél + 33 (0)477 666 460
Photo: Château de la Motte

Guest rooms with les Gîtes de France Loire: http://www.gites-de-france-loire.com/

Suggested activities around the castle:

This majestic building flanked by four square towers and located on the right bank of the Loire is like a fairy tale castle.

Built in the 17th century by a regional nobleman, the building had several owners, including Sir Bachelard after whom it is named, before becoming the property of a parliamentary advocate and advisor to Louis XIV. 

Following the demise of Jacques Noirard, a local who had bought the castle in 1957, the castle was taken over by Hervé and Daniéla Noirard With the idea of using their home to earn a living, they created five elegantly decorated rooms around a magnificant stairway made from regional stone. They added a swimming pool filled with spring water around which one can have an extended breakfast, comfortably furnished separate lounges in the park and a very welcoming reception. And if you are a fishing enthusiast, you will also find a pond filled with carp and pike. For sure, you'll never want to leave!   

Contact and information: www.chateaubachelard.com
42120 Commelle-Vernay
Tel + 33 (0)477 719 367
Photo: Château Bachelard

Guest rooms with les Gîtes de France Loire: http://www.gites-de-france-loire.com/

Suggested activities around the castle:

To sleep, choose Platelin, a very pleasant guesthouse in Renaison : in an old renovated farm, 2 rooms « Lapins »  (rabbits) or «  Vaches » (cows) fresh and bright (70 euros a room) as well as a spacious suite « Poules » (hens) (85 euros). With a library, a swimming pool and its deck and a charming  pond, you will find everything you need to relax. A warm welcome. 

- For enthusiasts : Central Hotel (04 77 64 25 39)  in Renaison : clean and quiet rooms in the centre of the village (40 / 43 euros). Home care.

by Laurent Turrel, © www.nuncbibendum.com 2008
Accomodation by Gîtes de France Loire http://gites-de-france-loire.com/