The Belle Époque refers to the era of renewed romanticism and idealism propelled by relatively stable and prosperous years, all despite France's defeat during the Franco-Prussian War. Built in 1896, Château La Comtesse de Loire was a product of this perceived Golden Age, featuring new architectural styles such as Art Nouveau complemented by classical aesthetics revived by romanticized remembrances. It was the summer home of General Bayou de la Brosse, though they would eventually move out by 1920 when the estate was sold to one Alfred Meyer. Meyer's reasoning was simple - he and his wife wished to live near the famed winery Gratien & Meyer. The Meyers owned the estate for nearly a century, eventually selling it in 2002.

The property did not languish as it passed hands several times during the early 21st century. It was purchased in 2016 by Pascale and François Hamelin, and the couple would transform the estate into a hotel known as Château de Verrières. They, in turn, sold the estate to Flore Hansen and Jérémy Passebon in 2022, who kept it operating as a hotel. The Passebons initially named it Hôtel du Château La Marquise, though they changed it soon after to Château La Comtesse de Loire because of a similarly named property nearby.

Design and Architecture

The architecture of Château La Comtesse de Loire embodies the popular ideas of the Belle Époque with its intricate Art Nouveau exterior and opulent Renaissance Revival interiors. Despite being over a century old, it is a very well-preserved piece of Loire heritage. Stone carvings fill the facade, depicting simple grooves, flower garlands, and mascarons displaying various human emotions. The crowning glory of the chateau is the Mansard-style roof, creating a timeless, elegant, and well-preserved piece of history.

Indoors, the varnished wood panels are embellished with Art Nouveau filigree, while the salons' spaces are filled with cozy yet classy period furniture. Keen-eyed guests will be able to spot the heraldic symbols of its original owners, General and Madame de la Brosse, decorating the chateau's oak staircase and stained glass. It depicts a wild boar and a lion paired together, symbolizing their noble families, the La Brosse and Bouyer de Saint-Gervais de Monhoudou.

Rooms are dressed in a combination of period and contemporary styles, featuring tall ceilings with chandeliers and fireplace mantels complemented by a bright mirror. The antique wooden furniture impresses a sense of novelty, while the modern amenities and plush modern seats encourage guests to relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Even a morning meal is treated as an elevated affair when you stay at Château La Comtesse de Loire. For just 22 EUR (25 USD), you can begin your day with a delicious continental buffet all made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. The well-rounded breakfast includes fresh breads and pastries paired with jams, as well as bacon, eggs, and cereals. They can also adjust the offerings for guests with special diets or allergies. Service is from 8 am until 10 am, so there's plenty of time to grab a bite before heading out.

Château La Comtesse de Loire also has an on-site bar, open daily until 9 pm. They serve a wide range of beverages, from local vintages and crafted cocktails to cozy cups of hot chocolate. The bar is also part of the room service, so feel free to order a drink wherever and whenever.

With the aid of Château La Comtesse de Loire's dedicated team of event staff, you can make your France destination wedding dreams a reality. Work together with the planners for a memorable, tailor-made milestone that can accommodate up to a hundred guests. You can get involved with the chateau's partners to plan the menus, ensuring your tastes and the guests' are well accounted for.

For large gatherings, make use of the estate grounds for a bright and lively outdoor reception under the sun and stars. You may also choose an indoor setting, set in the chateau's stunning lounges and parlors. If you've got a much smaller celebration in mind, you can book the luxury cottage and set your ceremony in verdant woodland.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

The Loire Valley is a rural paradise of beautiful farmlands and scenic towns nourished by a bountiful river. In fact, its rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural importance are recognized and protected as part of the Loire Valley between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The commune of Saumur, where Château La Comtesse de Loire is located, has several historic attractions that shouldn't be missed. The Cadre Noir de Saumur is an elite riding school that was home to the French Cavalry, and features the Cavalry Museum where visitors can learn more about their history. Another history museum in the area is the Museum of Armoured Vehicles, home to a vast collection of tanks and other armored machines from World War I to the present. The commune's icon, Château de Saumur, is definitely hard to miss. The majestic castle looms over Saumur and the Loire River, watching over the land as it did back during the Feudal Age.

Numerous outdoor adventures await out in the countryside that a single holiday might not be enough to experience everything. The region is famed for its wines and vineyards, with many farms welcoming agricultural and tasting tours. The hosts can also help arrange boat trips on the Loire , whether it's a kayaking trip along the banks or a scenic cruise where you can also visit the neighboring towns. The chateau also offers packaged picnic baskets for guests going on a day trip, containing a full meal and a bottle of wine.

Between all these trips, guests can take advantage of Château La Comtesse de Loire's amazing services to recharge and recuperate. Cool off with a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool, open from May until September. Detox in the sauna or steam room after a hectic excursion, before winding down with a bath in the hammam. The chateau's bar is also open until 9 in the evening, so grab a tipple or two if you're looking for a nightcap before bed. 

Other Celebrations

Planning to celebrate a birthday or anniversary as part of your France holiday? Privatize an area of the estate, creating a posh and stylish setting for your special day. Château La Comtesse de Loire has a team of diligent and skilled staff who will be happy to make your commemoration as wonderful as it can be. They'll be able to suggest which rooms and locations would best suit any themes and ideas you have in mind. They can also refer you to their local partners, should you need special services such as catering, decorators, and music.