Chateau de la Verie's history dates as far back as the Early Middle Ages, when it existed in the 9th century as a fortified castle built to defend against Normans and Scandinavians. In 1130, it became a property of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, better known as the Knights Templar. The estate would pass into the hands of various noble families over the centuries; during the 14th century, it was owned by one Jehan Belleron, while in the 15th century it was held by the knight Guillaume du Plantis, lord of La Guyonnière.

The current manor was built at the end of the 16th century, when it was acquired by André Bouhier, who was the treasurer of King Henry IV. The chateau was also the childhood home of Jacques-Augustin Robert de Lézardière, a deacon counted among the beatified martyrs of the French Revolution. Attempts to burn down the castle were also made in 1791, when Baron de la Lézardière was accused of conspiracy against the French Republic. The Lézardières would eventually leave the region in 1805 and sell their estate to François-Armand Boux de Casson, an officer of the Vendean Royalists during the War in the Vendée. The Cassons remained a recognized name in the region, with their members participating in politics. The estate was recognized and declared an important historic monument in 1964, encouraging locals to admire and appreciate their historic landmark.

The present-day owners of Château de la Vérie are Nienke Jansen and Arie Van Hoeven, a Dutch couple who fell in love with the region and purchased the castle in 2006. They converted the castle into a novel chateau hotel with a restaurant run by celebrity chef Thierry Drapeau. With the restaurant's closing in 2020, the owners focused on expanding the hotel aspect of the property, providing comfortable lodgings as well as venues for large events.

Design and Architecture

Chateau de la Verie lavishly blends contemporary and classical aesthetics, playing up the aristocratic vibes in each of the 21 guest suites. All guestrooms have a unique theme, setting them apart from each other. They range in design from opulent luxury rooms with chandeliers and antique furniture, to cozy prince rooms that integrated the old stonework architecture. Another area of the castle that follows this design philosophy is the dining hall. Although not currently operating as a full restaurant, it still carries a refined yet intimate atmosphere where guests can enjoy merry conversation while enjoying their breakfast.

Contrasting these posh suites are the gîtes, which are stylish country cottages made of stone and remodeled after the chateau's steadfast architecture. These are complete, furnished homes with separate bedrooms and equipped with their own kitchen.

While the restaurant is currently inactive, Chateau de la Verie still opens their banquet hall and terrace for breakfast service. Food is served from 7:30 until 10:30 am, consisting of healthy and tasty items including fresh bread and pastries, cereals, cold meats, and fruits. Beverages also come in cold or hot options.

Make your special day even more memorable by turning it into a fairytale wedding set in a castle. The enormous estate and beautiful will become the perfect setting if you privatize the chateau. The owners Nienke and Arie will be glad to assist you in getting staff and aid for your wedding, including decorators, planners, and even performers. They can prepare the estate grounds if you'd like an outdoor wedding, creating a venue large enough for 200 guests. They could also get in touch with the local churches if you'd rather have a traditional Catholic ceremony, and then have the reception at the castle.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The Vendée is a vast rural paradise that's not only rich with natural beauty, but also with culture and traditions from France's feudal past. One of the biggest attractions in the region, figuratively and literally, is the Marais Breton Vendéen, a massive marshland that is home to a large variety of flora and fauna. The marsh was also the center of many industries integral to Medieval France, such as salt production.

And while Challans isn't a coastal commune, the neighboring towns along the sea provide numerous opportunities for swimming, watersports, and basking under the sun. Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, for example, is only half an hour away and boasts beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife. That seaside town is also home to Feeling Forest, an outdoor adventure park where you can get your fitness fix while enjoying a day with your family and friends.

Other Celebrations

Since Chateau de la Verie does not have an actively operating restaurant, you will have to book a local establishment instead for your birthday or anniversary. That said, it's still worth asking the owners for a referral or recommendation, as they would know the community of Challans quite well.