La Chartreuse du Bignac dates back over 900 years, when the first elements of the property were constructed, such as the vaulted cellars. Over the next few centuries, the property changed ownership many times, but the established structures rarely changed along with them. The next oldest change relevant to the property today occurred 400 years ago, when the manor house itself was first constructed. Nestled between two valleys along the former pilgrimage route of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle, its original purpose was to serve as a retreat set up for an order of Catholic nuns that was relatively close to the local hospital for the poor, or Hôtel-Dieu.

For the most part, changes since that time were not as broad or as extensive as it was in the preceding centuries. The manor house structure itself remained largely intact and unchanged despite changes in ownership. Major events such as the abolition of the monarchy, the French Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, or both World Wars did not see any fundamental alteration or damage to the property. It continued to operate in various forms and years without attracting any unwanted attention or notoriety.

Its current form as a public accommodation only started to be realized around 20 years ago, when the property was restored and renovated as a hotel by its current owners, Mr. Jean-Louis Viargues and his wife, Brigitte. Among the chief priorities for the refurbishment of the property was maintaining its cultural and historical authenticity, while also including more modern features and amenities such as an outdoor pool, air conditioning, televisions, electric vehicle charging, and others. Environmental sustainability was also another important priority, which entailed sourcing materials and used ingredients in-house, organically, or locally. These commitments are still being honored today and continue to guide the hotel’s hospitality to all of its guests and visitors

Design and Architecture

The current structure of the La Chartreuse du Bignac strongly exemplifies the Romanesque style of architecture, which was prevalent in the French countryside much earlier than when the manor house was initially constructed. As a former residence for nuns, that specific aesthetic is evident in terms of its exterior design, which features thick stone walls and roofs, with little ornamentation or external engravings. The relatively short height of the building is also indicative of the austerity and simplicity of construction sought by Romanesque design.

As for the interior, the property features a blend of Mid-Century Modern and chateauesque design, which can be seen in the interior fixtures with stonework, regular cement, or wood. Structural supports located inside are also made of simple wood or stone, while not being ostentatious. Furniture is also largely along Mid-Century Modern lines, with the trappings of classical or modernist stylings. These also extend to usable amenities on the grounds of the property, such as the courtyard and terrace sections of the dining hall, and the swimming pool.

The hotel offers visitors an exquisite dining experience centered around its Michelin Guide-listed gourmet restaurant. Guests can enjoy their meals in different locations, including the dining room of the restaurant itself, the adjacent terrace and courtyard, the lounge, the promenade, and even the small library. The restaurant is mostly open for dinner throughout most of the week, open for lunch and dinner on Sunday, and is only closed on Sundays.

Chef Jean Twari leads the restaurant’s culinary team, which offers guests various specialized meals, from three-course to seven-course meals, themed dinners , and even special menus for events such as Mother’s Day. Dishes served depend on the chef’s inspiration or the seasonal availability of ingredients, assuring guests they have a memorable and sumptuous dining experience. Breakfast is also available for an added fee and features an assortment of cereals, cured meats, eggs, cheeses, yogurts, fruits, and either cold or hot drinks. 

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Visitors at the La Chartreuse du Bignac can enjoy different activities and experiences during their stay, whether inside or outside the property. Within the property, visitors can relax at the outdoor swimming pool and enjoy a panoramic and unobstructed view of the surrounding countryside. Guests can also walk or ride bicycles while strolling around the 12-hectare area. A fishing pond is available, as well as a spacious outdoor field for parlor games or a round of pétanque.

Outside the property, a wealth of activities and experiences also await guests. There's a 9 or 18-hole golf course, an equestrian center for horseback riding, or a place for canoe and kart riding. Visitors can also go to the nearby paper mill or the local producers of foie gras, truffles, vinegar, and nut oil for a deeper insight and appreciation into these products. The property can organize a tour of France’s largest wine tasting region featuring partner vineyards like Château La Robertie, Le Clos des Verdots, Domaine de l'Ancienne Cure, Château Terre Vieille, and Château Haut Garrigue.

Other Celebrations

The hotel is also open and ready to accommodate visitors interested in holding special events or occasions at the property. There are two indoor meeting rooms available for workshops, training sessions, conferences, and other similar events. The first room is the 30 square meter Petit Salon, which can accommodate 12 to 30 people, while the second room is the larger 60 square meter Grand Salon, which can accommodate 20 to 45 people. Aside from renting the space, use of video projectors, screens, DVD players, free WiFi, mineral water, printing services, and other additional materials can be arranged beforehand.

As for available amenities, event participants are offered the same luxuries and conveniences that regular guests have. In any event, visitors can take their breaks at the south terrace and courtyard or even at the fireside inside the Grand Salon. Team building and relaxation activities include using the outdoor pool, the fishing pond, the cycling area, and the home theater in the old wine cellar. The same outdoor activities and places open to regular guests, or the hotel-organized wine tour, are also available to participants in events held at the property.