House

Domaine de la Chambaudière

Molineuf, Loire Valley, France

The Domaine de la Chambaudière welcomes guests with peaceful, picturesque views: rolling valleys, vast meadows where horses graze, the edge of a forest perfect for morning strolls, and the striking 12th-century Church of Saint Secondin in the distance.

Originally a Carmelite convent, the property's history is still palpable in the ancient stones. The gently chiming bells of the chapel lend the domaine a tranquil, almost meditative atmosphere. Since taking over in 2022, host Anthony and his family have lovingly renovated the 900 m² property and developed it into a family-run retreat for families and groups. Here, guests can unwind amidst nature, spend time together, or simply enjoy French country life.

The interiors feature natural materials, soft colors, and a timeless, warm atmosphere. Many pieces of furniture are secondhand or refurbished, creating a harmonious blend of vintage charm and modern comfort. Each room has its own personality: earthy green tones, soft terracotta, or light linen create a sense of calm and coziness. The common areas are light-filled and spacious, ideal for dining together, working, or simply socializing, while the bedrooms offer comfort and privacy.

The location is also a highlight: just ten to forty minutes away are some of the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley, including Blois, Chambord and Amboise.


Rooms + Rates

per night
Haupthausfrom850 €
Gesamtes Anwesenfrom1.200 €

Characteristics

  • Spacious guesthouse in a lovingly renovated former Carmelite monastery
  • Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, surrounded by nature, large gardens and adjacent forest
  • Spacious, tastefully designed rooms
  • Vegetables from your own permaculture garden
  • Various services can be booked on site: catering, massages, Pilates classes
  • Attractive surroundings: proximity to Loire castles, local markets and cultural highlights
  • Perfect for family reunions and celebrations, seminars or groups

Guesthouse (Gîte)
11 bedrooms
Own kitchen
Children welcome
Wi-Fi
Disabled access
Pool
no pets

Sustainable

Architecture

The architecture of the domaine is unique: formerly a monastery, it consists of several buildings from different eras, each preserving its own character. The authentic spirit of the place has been carefully preserved. The former chapel now serves as a seminar room, and the bells still ring daily. Sustainability and respect for history were central to the renovation: existing materials such as wood, stone, and tiles were reused, regional suppliers were involved, and the house was furnished with vintage or secondhand furniture. The garden is also designed according to permaculture principles, and the swimming pool was designed to be energy-efficient. The goal was to create a place that honors the past while being future-oriented. Local artisans helped preserve the original character of the domaine while minimizing its environmental impact.

Food

The domaine emphasizes seasonal, local, and, whenever possible, organic food. It collaborates with regional caterers and producers who use fresh, local ingredients, many of which are organic. While there is no restaurant, guests receive recommendations and contacts for high-quality local offerings. Herbs and small stocks are cultivated in the garden for guest use. Food waste is minimized through conscious handling, composting, and forward-looking planning. Recommended dishes come from the regional, seasonal cuisine with a plant-based focus. The emphasis is on simple, generous, and home-cooked meals that reflect the richness of the Loire region's terroir.

Where possible, the Domaine collaborates with employees from the region to support the local community. The team benefits from a positive and flexible work environment adapted to the seasonal nature of the activities.

Environment

Waste is carefully separated and recycled, and garden and food scraps are composted. Environmentally certified cleaning products are used in all areas, and natural, biodegradable products are used wherever possible. Water is used efficiently thanks to energy-saving fixtures in the kitchens and bathrooms. Furthermore, the domaine is actively committed to nature conservation by establishing a permaculture-based garden. Existing trees are protected and plants are cultivated without chemicals, thus promoting biodiversity. This approach is both practical and educational, and the hosts are happy to share their knowledge with guests. Sustainability is not only conveyed through the welcome guide and personal conversations, but also communicated via the website and social media channels.

Well-Being

The domaine offers a variety of wellness and leisure activities to help guests relax and unwind. Pilates or stretching sessions can be arranged upon request – either indoors or, weather permitting, in the garden. Massages and other treatments are available with certified local therapists. A heated outdoor pool invites you to relax or enjoy a gentle start to your day from spring to late summer. Quiet areas surrounded by nature are ideal for meditation, journaling, or simply enjoying the silence.


Features

  • 400 m2 property for up to 25 people
  • A total of 11 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms
  • Main house with 6 bedrooms for up to 15 people
  • Apartment for up to 4 people
  • Annex building with space for an additional 6 people (on request)
  • Large, very well-equipped kitchen
  • 50 m2 seminar room
  • Terrace with outdoor furniture and barbecue facilities
  • 4x7 meter heated outdoor pool
  • Idyllic garden with access to the forest
  • Bicycles for rent on site

Location

By car

From Paris, it's just under 2.5 hours to the Domaine de la Chambaudière (194 km). From Nantes, it's just under 3 hours (271 km), and from Bourges, it's just over 1.5 hours (126 km). The exact address can be found on the website.

By public transport

The nearest train station (SNCF) in Blois is just a 10-minute drive away (10 km). There is also a bus service to Molineuf from there.


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