Built as a country manor around the 17th century, Château de Courtebotte embraces its heritage without neglecting the practicality and conveniences of the modern era. The estate gradually transformed into a delightful historic stay under the caring hands of its owners, Isabelle and Pascal Jehanno. They have taken care to preserve the classical architecture, opting to integrate the buildings as they are instead of replacing them.

Renovations still take place, and not all features are preserved, such as old fireplaces becoming impractical due to the fire hazards and the advent of centralized cooling and heating technologies. The chateau also takes care to expand when there are opportunities, such as adding a treehouse cabin perched on a hill overlooking the Dordogne River.

Design and Architecture

Although built in the 17th century, the chateau's primary architecture is in the Romanesque fashion, featuring straightforward but sturdy stone walls and pointed roofs, popular around the region. Indoors, however, the chateau bear hints of Baroque styles with its more ornate interior details such as rococo walls paired with modern fixtures and dressing. These designs are most apparent in the guestrooms located in the main building.

The other accommodation buildings of Château de Courtebotte instead feature wildly varying styles; the studio is fully contemporary and more akin to a city apartment when it comes to aesthetics. The cottages are set in a medieval farmhouse, and like the main manor, preserve their traditional stonework structure. The treehouse is the most different, a fanciful modern forest cabin close to nature, and similar to what you'd find at a summer campground rather than a chateau estate.

Meals at Château de Courtebotte are available as add-ons for your stay and as on-demand requests. Breakfast costs 18 EUR (20 USD) for adults and 12 EUR (13.33 USD) for kids ages 12 and below. These include quintessential items such as croissants, fruits, and jam, served along with fruit juice or hot beverages. Guests can also order a charcuterie platter for 35 EUR (39 USD) served with rillettes, various cheeses, a salad, and washed down with a half-bottle of locally produced red wine.

Couples in search of a bright and beautiful setting for their wedding won't regret choosing the riverside estate of Château de Courtebotte. The chateau is available for privatization and can provide services for events and accommodate up to 16 guests with their lodgings. Make sure to contact the hotel so you can work out on a proposal and iron out details such as staffing for wedding planners, decorators, and beauticians. Those who would like to hold a traditional church ceremony may also coordinate with Château de Courtebotte's management to book one of the local churches or cathedrals.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Gironde's magnificent countryside is most known for being the Bordeaux wine region, a historically significant agricultural region famed for its diverse variety of grapes and resulting vintages. At its heart is the Jurisdiction of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its legacy on how winegrowing culture and traditions shaped French history. Winery and farm tours are also popular in the area, and the hosts of Château de Courtebotte will gladly assist you in making bookings. There are also plenty of fun outdoor activities found near the chateau, including river boating on the Dordogne via canoe and raft rentals.

The region also played a major part during France's medieval times, particularly in the Hundred Years' War. Fortified castles dot the countryside, many of which are still standing. Rauzan Castle is one location, built in the 13th century to defend Bordeaux and English interests in the region. Castle Camarsac is famed for being the residence of Edward the Black Prince, a legendary figure during the Hundred Years' War. Additionally, Château de Montaigne and its tower are well-regarded for being the family home of Michel de Montaigne, the French philosopher.

Other Celebrations

Château de Courtebotte is available for privatization to host events and company gatherings. If you're planning a birthday or anniversary with loved ones, it may be worth looking into. Alternatively, you can collaborate with the host if they can arrange a smaller, more intimate celebration without needing to book the whole estate.