CHATEAU DE LA BARRE: French heritage and elegance

In the middle of the Loire Valley southwest of Paris, 100 acres of lush parkland hide the award-winning Château de la Barre, home to the de Vanssay family since 1404. The design of the château, which developed over the centuries, embodies 600 years of French cultural and architectural history. It is still home to the Count and Countess de Vanssay. Guests from all over the world (can rent) are welcomed at the grand manor to experience a luxurious escape into one of the world’s most privileged and beautiful properties.

The lavish interior contains precious XVIIIth century antiques upholstered with warm designer fabrics. The chateau creates an intimate atmosphere where guests gain the impression that this outstanding property is theirs for the duration of their stay. The château has a family chapel surrounded by XVIth century fortifications, leading down to a luscious, fragrant French garden, perfect for romantic escapes. Beyond that lie the meadows, ponds, rivers and forests forming part of the extensive property.

There are many chateaux in France, several of them in the Loire valley, but none where guests are welcomed by the owners, 20th generation to live on the premises. In addition, ( But) with its unrivalled hospitality, which has gained many awards, Château de la Barre stands out from the rest. A private reception by the Count and Countess offers a unique personalized experience; each one of the bedrooms - Suite Marin de Vanssay, Chambre aux Fleurs, Suite Esprit de Jouy, Chambre Jaune and Chambre Bleue - has a story to tell.

The Loire Valley with its many vineyards is known as the Garden of France. The central part of the valley is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites and the nearby medieval town of Le Mans, the Plantagenet city, still an undiscovered gem, is the French candidate for the next UNESCO Heritage site nomination. This is the “Carcassonne of the North” yet still without the hords of tourists. The combination of the numerous chateaux in the valley, the Loire vineyards, the moderate climate and the surrounding parkland are the ideal ingredients for a perfect French escape.

The Château is also near several prestigious sports and luxury brand events such as the Lemans 24 Hours race, and is an ideal location for lavish wedding receptions or personalized cocktail gatherings. Twice a week, after champagne cocktails, a prestigious “Grand Siècle” dinner is hosted in the XVIIth century dining room, with all the family silver and crystal. On other nights, a supper accompanied by an extensive wine selection from the Count’s cellar can be served in the breakfast room with its impressionist art collection, or on the terrace under the elm trees. The XIVth century room known as the “Piece a Feu” with its magnificent fireplace is the perfect venue to arrange a wine-tasting. The Count and Countess, Guy and Marnie de Vanssay, can also advise you where to discover some of the small gourmet restaurants of their region. Or arrange hot air balloon flights departing from the Château park before dawn returning to a champagne breakfast.
Private limousine transfers from Paris city or airport, including English or Chinese speaking chauffeur guided visits of the region, are easily organized as well.

For a group of 8 to 15 guests, the Count and Countess can arrange exclusive visits, including luncheons or cocktail receptions with the owners, at other private châteaux and gardens in the surroundings.