Guests say
Guests are enamoured with Chateau De Mazelle, praising its stunning setting, spaciousness, and well-equipped kitchen. The long pool is a highlight, offering real swimming pleasure. The property's terraces and the surrounding quiet are cherished, providing a perfect retreat from city life. The chateau's ability to accommodate large groups while offering various socialising areas is highly appreciated, making it an ideal choice for group holidays.
There is no specific mention of cleanliness in the reviews, so it is not possible to provide an accurate score for this category.
The location is repeatedly described as stunning, with beautiful views and a peaceful setting that is perfect for relaxation and exploration. Proximity to attractions like Nimes and Pont du Gard, as well as local caves, adds to the appeal.
The chateau is noted for its spaciousness and various terraces, which offer comfort throughout the day. The presence of a sofa for rest upon arrival suggests a comfortable living area.
The property is lauded for its well-equipped kitchen, long pool, and unique features like a dumb waiter lift. The constant availability of hot water and the functionality of the plumbing system indicate well-maintained facilities.
While guests express gratitude for the hospitality and mention a feast prepared by someone named Ino, there is no mention of gifts or special thoughtful touches that are guaranteed, so this category cannot be scored.
About this property
This imposing château is embraced by the foothills of the Cévennes and the power of the natural world. Its terraces give sweeping views onto the rustic stones, surrounding forests and rocky outcrops which are characteristic of this part of the Languedoc.
Sleeping from 2 to 20 guests, the château’s ample common areas make it perfect for convivial family reunions or gatherings of friends whilst a flexible pricing option outside high season allows a couple or smaller group to enjoy this very special home.
The 21-metre long private pool is the centrepiece of outdoor life. No less stunning is the immense covered terrace above the pool, with a dining table that can seat 20 guests in view of the setting sun. The 11 bedrooms are comfortably furnished, while the enormous kitchen, beautifully updated in sympathy with the rustic stones from which the house was built, is a special treat where you can cook and dine with friends.
Tucked on the edge of the Cévennes National Park, part of a small hamlet, there are unlimited outdoor adventures within the grounds of the château and within a short drive by exploring the rivers, grottos and charming villages nearby. The nearest village is Banne, followed by the market towns of St Ambroix and Les Vans.
Furthermore, don't miss a visit to the newly opened Anselm Kiefer Eschaton Foundation in Barjac, an extraordinary place to admire the great artist's contemporary work in his impressive former studio, once a silk factory.
This holiday retreat is also heaven for hiking, river rafting, lounging by the pool or just being quiet and listening to the sounds of nature.
The nearest airports are Nîmes (1hour 20mins) or Montpellier (1hour 45mins) and the nearest market town is Les Vans. The local village of Banne hosts an art festival during the summer and is a meeting point for various guided hikes. The nearest train station is Nîmes, but for TGVs or the Eurostar from St Pancras via Paris, Valance TGV (2hours) or Avignon (1hour 40mins) are preferable.
Hiking trails abound, both by setting off directly from the house or by driving a short distance to explore the Cévennes National Park. Head to the medieval village of Banne, explore the deep caves and grotto of la Cocalière or the rocky outcrops of the Bois de Païolive. Swim in the 21-metre pool or take a short drive to an idyllic swimming hole, complete with enormous rocks and a waterfall.
There are tennis courts in St. Paul le Jeune and les Vans. The vast surrounding hills and valleys with their quiet roads present miles of cycling in unspoiled scenery amid wildflowers, wildlife, and few human encounters. The Ardèche river with its famous Pont d'Arc is a short drive away, where it is easy to rent canoes to spend the day floating down the river or sunbathing on its shores.
Art-lovers won’t want to miss the newly opened (in 2022) Anselm Kiefer Eschaton Foundation in Barjac (30km), housed in the great artist’s former studio, once a silk factory, which has never previously been opened to the public. Now visitors can tour the building’s towers, tunnels and studios as well as admiring the contemporary artwork.
Further afield, the elegant town of Uzès with its famous Saturday market is not to be missed. Just south of Uzès is the breathtaking Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct which once transported water to Nîmes and is now a unesco World Heritage Site. Visit the beautiful walled city of Avignon to learn about the history of the Papacy in France and to enjoy its chic shops or explore the historic Roman amphitheatre of Nîmes. For wine lovers, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, home to the finest wines of the Rhône valley, is a wonderful outing for a long lunch or wine tasting in the vineyards.
Accommodation
Main Château Interiors
Main Level
- Central lounge with large fireplace and long dining table. Door leads to fountain terrace and garden below
- Kitchen and pantry, fully-equipped
- 2 x bedrooms with double beds
- Bathroom
Upstairs
- Master bedroom with king-size double bed and en suite bathroom
- 2 x bedrooms with double bed
- Yoga and ballroom with ping-pong table
- Office (not accessible to guests)
- Bathroom
Poolside Apartment (two levels)
- Sitting room
- Kitchenette
- Bedroom with terrace overlooking pool
- Bedroom with double bed
- Bedroom with twin beds
- Bathroom
Upstairs Apartment
- Sitting room (with sink and fridge)
- 2 x bedrooms with double beds
- Bedroom with twin beds
- Bathroom
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (21m long) which is secured via locking terrace doors
- Poolside terrace with sun loungers
- WC and outside shower
- Upper covered terrace with dining table for up to 20 guests
- Pergola with small table (four guests)
- Fountain terrace
- North terrace with al-fresco dining table (for 8 guests), sofas and valley views
- Vast grounds (including steps/different levels)
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Fans
- Heaters (on request for cooler months)
- Ping-pong
Reviews (5)
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Jo
Lovely location for walking etc. Nimes and Pont du Gard not to far to visit in a day. House very interesting and spacious.
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Fiona
Well we are back from a fantastic holiday in your chateau. What a treasure, we all thought it was the most beautiful house and a delight to be in. Abby was very kind and helpful as my husband was exhausted when we arrived and he collapsed onto a sofa for the afternoon while we went shopping. We found the house very well equipped – great to have a food processor when you have a bunch of keen cooks in the house. All the plumbing worked fine and we never ran out of hot water. The setting is stunning and we loved the different terraces at different times of day. The pool is the best I have ever had in a house, great to have a really long one. Nobody wanted to leave and I hope we will be able to come back as the area suited us perfectly, particularly the quiet which is so lovely after London.
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Fiona
Well we are back from a fantastic holiday in your chateau. What a treasure, we all thought it was the most beautiful house and a delight to be in. Abby was very kind and helpful as my husband was exhausted when we arrived and he collapsed onto a sofa for the afternoon while we went shopping. We found the house very well equipped – great to have a food processor when you have a bunch of keen cooks in the house. All the plumbing worked fine and we never ran out of hot water. The setting is stunning and we loved the different terraces at different times of day. The pool is the best I have ever had in a house, great to have a really long one. Nobody wanted to leave and I hope we will be able to come back as the area suited us perfectly, particularly the quiet which is so lovely after London.