The land that would become Château du Clair de Lune already existed in the 19th century as farmland, later purchased in 1902 by the couple de Bonand. They soon turned it into a turn-of-the-century estate with a magnificent Belle Époque manor and hunting lodge, while integrating the original farmhouse. Mrs. de Bonand, actually the heiress of a Cincinnati banker, was even said to have trees from America shipped to the estate and replanted there.

The American poet and soldier Alan Seeger stayed at the chateau for some time, as he was the nephew of Mrs. de Bonand. Sadly, he lost his life in 1916 at a battle near Belloy-en-Santerre. His sacrifice is commemorated by dedicating the hotel's signature bar to his creativity and free-spirited bohemian lifestyle.

The estate lay neglected for the rest of the 20th century, but in 2009 it was acquired by Jean Dabadie. Reimagining the chateau and estate as a hotel with traditional and modern features, he brought new life to the property while preserving it as a heritage stay.

Design and Architecture

Due to the manor building being constructed during France's Belle Époque, the building followed the trends of the time. The country chateau displays the fanciful opulence of the era, but with a mix of Iberian influences due to its proximity to Spain, clearly exemplified by its red bricks and roof shingles. Indoors, the spaces are fitted with parquet floors and period furnishings. Art Nouveau touches, such as filigree patterns, are also found on transoms and metal rails.

Aside from the manor, the hunting lodge is the other major building on the estate. The lodge features contemporary architecture and decor, looking and feeling more like a modern country villa.

Marius

Taste the finest offerings of Basque and Pyrénées-Atlantiques cuisine at Marius. Owned by Michelin-starred chef Sébastien Sanjou and spouse Géraldine André, the restaurant promises a memorable dining experience. The kitchen is led by Chef Kévin Bigot, a Biarritz culinarian who has spent over a decade in the region and mastered its diverse flavors. Accompanying him is his wife, Ludivine, who manages the wait staff as maître d'hôtel.

The restaurant is set in a 19th-century Basque farmhouse with enticing views of the Pyrenees mountains. For its menu, guests can expect items such as Spanish shellfish, sea bass in citrus, and stuffed rabbit, all served in bistrot style.

Opening hours: From Thursday to Monday, 12 pm - 1:30 pm (Lunch); 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm (dinner)
Reservations can be made through their website or by phone.

Côté Terre

Open seasonally from July until August, guests can bask in an idyllic poolside setting at the snack bar Côté Terre. Take it easy and unwind by the water, snacking on salads and sandwiches while sipping your favorite beverage.

Lunch: 12 pm - 2:30 pm
Drinks service: 10 am - 7 pm

Alan Seeger

Dedicated to the American poet Alan Seeger, the hotel's signature bar is an ode to his unfettered bohemian lifestyle. Take your pick of the bar's extensive menu of liquors, cocktails, wines, and champagnes. Complement your tipple with snacks, including Basque pâté, olives stuffed with Serrano ham, and roasted Camembert cheese.

Guests can also enjoy a light dinner with their bistro menu, which has dishes such as ravioli with porcini mushrooms, and Basque chicken.

Bistro service: 7 pm - 9:30 pm

Make the glorious Pyrenees mountains the backdrop of your destination wedding set in France. Château du Clair de Lune is available for large-scale privatization for big events such as your wedding day, offering various venues and facilities that can be customized to your liking. You'll have access to indoor and outdoor areas, such as the lawn terrace and the Côté Terre modular hall.

If you have specific services in mind, such as decorators or beauticians, be sure to coordinate with the management so they can prepare and make bookings for staff and personnel beforehand.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

You're free to explore the Basque coast and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine countryside at your own leisure while staying at Château du Clair de Lune. Get in touch with the concierge service and have them assist you with booking all sorts of activities. Spend a lazy afternoon while horseback-riding, or follow the cycling or hiking trails around the neighboring communes. If you're heading to the beaches, you can also book some water activities such as canoeing or kayaking, or do some snorkelling.

Other Celebrations

Have a special celebration in mind? Château du Clair de Lune offers privatization options for seminars and company gatherings. You can also book these venues for more intimate parties, such as for a birthday or anniversary.

Alan Seeger Library: Size of 30 sqm (323 sqft) and a capacity for 12 persons
De Chambrun: Size of 40 sqm (430 sqft) and a capacity of 20 persons
Côté Terre Venue: Size of 230 sqm (2475 sqft) with modular options, and can accommodate up to 250 persons