Ancient millennium castle in Occitania turned into a high-end hotel offers a perfect setting for a weekend getaway (or a wedding celebration)
Nestled between Nîmes and Avignon in the picturesque region of Occitanie, France, stands the Château de Collias - a millennium-old building transformed into a five-star hotel. With its rich history dating back to 1380, the château has played an active role in the Wars of Religion and has been the property of the Marquis de La Chapelle since the 17th century.
Originally a defensive tower built in the 11th century, the Château de Collias has evolved over the centuries, serving as a playground for village children throughout the 20th century. Today, it offers a complete tour of ten centuries in its interior courtyard, providing a glimpse into its illustrious past.
The château boasts thirteen rooms spread across its wings, each tastefully decorated to reflect its historical significance. For guests seeking relaxation, the château features an 18-meter deep swimming pool, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills.
Dining at the Château de Collias is an unforgettable experience. The BistrO' Le Bougainvillier, located within the château, serves seasonal market cuisine at lunchtime, while L'Hirondelle, the gastronomic restaurant, offers high-flying, local, and inventive cuisine in the evening. Antony Simon, Gault&Millau Occitanie Eloquence Prize 2025 winner, provides dining room service, ensuring a culinary experience to remember.
For those seeking outdoor adventure, the area around the Château de Collias is ideal. Canoeing and kayaking in the scenic Gorges du Gardon, hiking along magnificent routes, and cycling are just a few activities available. The château also offers horseback riding, badminton, pool table, cooking classes, walking tours, themed dinners, and live music performances on site.
For families or other visitors, a short drive could take you to places like Parc Aquatique La Bouscarasse, a water park that offers fun for children and adults. Nearby, you can also find temporary art galleries and enjoy cultural visits in the area.
Christophe Tailleur, owner of the Château de Collias, has planted 2,000 trees, a herb garden, a rose garden, and Mediterranean essences in the park, adding to the château's natural beauty. Breton chef Benjamin Boloré has been providing the culinary offer at the Château de Collias since November 2024, ensuring a gastronomic experience that matches the château's historic charm.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled vacation, or a taste of local cuisine, the Château de Collias offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of Occitanie.
Guests looking to explore more lifestyle and travel options can spend time immersed in home-and-garden activities at the Château de Collias, which boasts 2,000 trees, a herb garden, a rose garden, and Mediterranean essences in its park. Alternatively, those interested in in-flights magazines could feature a story about the unique combination of historical luxury and outdoor adventure offered by this millennium-old French château.
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