Beyond the wrought-iron gates and along a pebbled driveway lined with towering trees, Château Des Daims reveals itself in all its Belle Époque glory. Set within 20 acres of parkland, this late 19th-century château is an elegant expression of French heritage. The estate is laced with woodland and trails, also home to a protected herd of deer that roam gently across the grounds.
Originally commissioned by the Renaud family, wealthy Parisians enchanted by the spa culture of nearby Vichy, the château was designed by a celebrated French architect. His signature style can be seen in every detail, from the ornate chimney crests to the refined symmetry of the façades. The interiors have been sensitively restored, honouring the spirit of the Belle Époque while introducing modern comforts. Each of the six bedrooms offers a distinct character, with graceful décor, king-size double beds and quality linens, most with private or adjoining bathrooms with freestanding baths and walk-in showers.
Days on the estate drift between languid walks, mornings by the lake or simply watching deer graze in dappled light. A private running trail weaves around the grounds, while the moat and woodland bring a fairytale quality to daily life.
Just 15km away lies the graceful spa town of Vichy, once favoured by Napoleon III and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Belle Époque facades, therapeutic springs, riverside promenades and bustling markets offer a rich contrast to the seclusion of the château’s parkland. Across the area, discover medieval villages like Charroux and Châteldon, kayak down the Allier River or enjoy a gastronomic journey through Michelin-starred dining.
For Château Des Daims’ current owners, it was love at first sight when they saw their new home for the first moment and now they invite discerning guests to share in its magic. Whether marking a special occasion or simply seeking rest among nature and history, this romantic French château promises a beautiful and elegant stay.
Located in a small rural village near Vichy, Château Des Daims is a private estate set across 20 acres of parkland and woodland, complete with its own moat and lake. Within the gated grounds, protected deer roam freely in woodland, offering guests the magical experience of watching wildlife in its natural habitat.
A boulangerie and grocery store are around 800m away – you can walk (along a typical country road, no pavement) or cycle. For a greater choice of amenities, Saint-Germain-des-Fossés (7km) is a short drive with its large supermarket and train station with departures towards Moulins, Nevers, Bourges and Lyon.
Just 15km from the château, Vichy is a jewel of the Auvergne region, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, elegant architecture and rich history. Once favoured by Napoleon III and European aristocracy, this graceful spa town is now a unesco World Heritage Site, celebrated as one of the “Great Spa Towns of Europe.” Visitors can unwind in the town’s renowned thermal baths, where mineral-rich waters have been offering rejuvenation since Roman times. Beyond wellness, Vichy enchants with its Belle Époque and Art Deco buildings, tranquil parks, riverside promenades and lively markets.
Elsewhere, discover hidden gems such as Charroux (34km), one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France”, and Châteldon (33km), famed for its mineral water and medieval charm. The historic city of Moulins (50km) offers another layer of cultural richness, with museums, cathedrals and a well-preserved old town to wander.
To elevate your stay, indulge in regional cuisine and fine wines. Sample Sancerre and Burgundy vintages, or reserve a table at one of the region’s Michelin-starred restaurants: from nearby Auberge du Pont (8km) in Billy or L’Écrin de Marlène (15km) in Vichy to the legendary Troisgros (58km) near Roanne, each offering a distinct taste of local gastronomy.
Outdoor adventure is also never far. Glide down the Allier River on a kayak or paddleboard, or explore woodland trails and waterfalls on foot. Golfers can tee off at a renowned course near Vichy, surrounded by scenic countryside. The landscapes of the wider Auvergne region, with its forests, gorges and ancient volcanic lakes, invite peaceful hikes, wildlife spotting and moments of quiet reflection.
Château Interiors
Main Floor
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Foyer
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Formal living room
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Formal dining room
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Family room with Smart TV
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Modern kitchen
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Corner tower room with small chapel
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Second corner tower room
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WC
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Back door and stairs to cave
First Floor
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Landing
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Bedroom 1 (in front of landing) with king-size double bed
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Bedroom 2 (along left corridor) with king-size double bed, large closet and tower room. Bathroom with freestanding bath, walk-in shower and two sinks
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Bedroom 3 (along right corridor) with king-size double bed and clothes storage
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Bedroom 4 (along right corridor) with king-size double bed, clothes storage and tower room with writing desk
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Jack n Jill en suite bathroom (accessed by bedrooms 3 and 4)
- WC
Second Floor
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Landing
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Bedroom 5 (to left of landing) with king-size double bed and corner tower room with coffee service. En suite bathroom with freestanding bath and walk-in shower (bathroom can also be accessed from corridor)
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Linen room
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Bedroom 6 (to right of landing) with king-size double bed, large writing desk and small tower room. Connects to small bedroom with a sofa-bed for young children. En suite bathroom with heated flooring, walk-in shower and freestanding bath
- WC
Basement /Sous-sol
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Cave with wine storage (public and private) and area for wine-tasting or meals
- Laundry facilities
- Storage
Outside Grounds (8.5-hectare property)
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Barbecue
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Play structure for children with swings, slide and climbing
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Bikes (x2)
- Fountain
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Small lake and moat
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Walking/jogging path around the property
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Woodland (with 11 resident deer that roam naturally over 4 hectares)
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Parking garage
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Fully fenced and gated grounds
Additional Facilities
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Wi-Fi (indoors only, excluding basement/cave)
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