About this property
Imagine opening your shuttered windows in the morning to be greeted with a view of the majestic Vienne river and medieval town of Chinon. La Maison Du Vigneron offers French charm alongside the perfect setting in a bio-dynamic vineyard, ideal for a relaxing holiday exploring the Loire Valley.
The vines were originally planted by monks in the early 1600s, and after their monastery was destroyed in the French Revolution this fine manor house was created - dating back to the 18th and 19th century. Its most recent owner has brought the surrounding vineyard back to life using traditional farming methods such as a plough horse. You will no doubt have plenty of opportunities to sample her elegant deep red wines, many of which are served in both local and Parisian bars and restaurants.
Whilst staying at La Maison Du Vigneron guests can appreciate the heritage of this beautiful home whether relaxing in the graceful yet comfortable living area with its fireplace and piano or dining in the refined panelled dining room with exquisite views towards the nearby fortress. Climb up the grand curved staircase to four wonderfully styled bedrooms, each one with their own character and picture-perfect vistas through the tall windows. Two further bedrooms in the attic make this spacious maison ideal for gatherings – invite family or friends to experience the old-fashioned warmth of this French family home.
Wander around the walled gardens, admire the growing vines and discover the flora and fauna that surrounds you in this splendid setting. Sit back with a glass of the vineyard’s wine and gaze at the glorious scenery of historic Chinon and the Loire valley countryside.
Potter along the lane and within five minutes you will reach the winding, cobbled streets of Chinon, a charming town with wine caves, pretty shops, excellent restaurants and an atmospheric weekly market. It’s an incredibly picturesque place with its imposing fortress and riverside setting where you can hire canoes for trips out on the Vienne river.
Within just twenty minutes you can be floating along the Loire on a gabarre river boat from Candes-Saint-Martin, one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. A visit to the picturesque Loire village of Montsoreau is also a must, followed by the grand town of Saumur, well known for its sparkling wine and Cadre Noir equestrian school.
Hire bikes for cycling along the Loire à Vélo riverside trails, head to the famous Fontevraud Abbey or drive to some of the Loire’s most iconic châteaux including Château d'Ussé, said to be the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty, within just ten minutes. Or simply marvel at the wonder all around you in this historic and stunning setting in an enchanting part of the Garden of France.
La Maison du Vigneron is set in the walled gardens of a bio-dynamic working vineyard, perfectly located just a short stroll from the historic town of Chinon, a great base for exploring the magnificent Loire Valley.
Set on a hillside just outside the heart of Chinon, you can wander down to the town in five to ten minutes. Ramble along the cobbled and winding lanes, sample local wines in characterful bars and caves, dine in wonderful restaurants and admire the impressive fountain in the main square.
There's a weekly market on a Thursday morning and look out for the monthly brocante (flea-style market) and truffle markets in January. It’s a town filled with charm in an especially beautiful setting on the Vienne riverside where you can hire canoes and kayaks. The perched Chinon Fortress is a fantastic place to visit for all ages with its historical importance and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
The village of Candes-Saint-Martin (17km), one of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’ is just a 20-minute drive away. It’s where the Loire and Vienne rivers meet and it’s a picturesque spot, especially when viewed on board one of its traditional gabarre boats.
A little further west along the Loire river is the renowned town of Saumur (35km) which has gained a reputation for its gastronomic scene as well as its sparkling white wine and Cadre Noir equestrian school. Perhaps combine with a trip to the amazing Fontevraud Abbey (21km) or the Troglodyte village at Rochemenier (55km), about an hour away.
This is also an ideal position for easy access to the Loire à Vélo cycling trails along the riverside whilst keen horse-riders can find stables close by, another great way to make the most of the scenery. Golf-lovers only need to travel 22km to find an 18-hole course in lovely surroundings at Golf Loudun-Fontevraud.
If you are yearning to see some of the iconic fairy-tale châteaux across the Loire Valley then start off at the castle that apparently inspired the tale of Sleeping Beauty - Château d'Ussé, just a 10-minute drive away. Others close by include Château de Villandry (33km) and Château d'Azay-le-Rideau (21km) or head a little further to Château Royal d'Amboise (75km) and Château de Chenonceau (74km).
Tours (50km) is another superb day out with its excellent restaurants, atmospheric markets and remarkable historic sights whilst wine-lovers will appreciate the vineyards of Vouvray just outside the magnificent city.
Accommodation
Maison Interiors
Ground Floor
- Living room with fireplace and piano. French windows leading out to garden
- Smaller adjoining reading room
- Dining room with fireplace and table for up to 12 guests
- Kitchen, well-equipped including wood-burning stove alongside modern gas cooker
- Guest WC
First Floor
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite bathroom with WC
- Bedroom with single bed (connects to above double bedroom)
- Bedroom with double bed and en suite bathroom with WC
- Bedroom with twin beds and en suite shower room with separate WC
Attic (low/sloping ceilings)
- Bedroom with double bed
- Children’s bedroom with twin beds
- Shower and WC
Outside Grounds
- Garden furnishings and parasol
- Walled gardens and bio-dynamic vineyard
- Barbecue
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Heating
- Two working fireplaces
- Piano
- Books