Chateau de Malleret is possibly one of the most beautiful castles in the Bordeaux region, not only producing an elegant wine but also offering 10 majestic bedrooms in breathtaking surroundings.
Coralie Modschiedler takes a trip back in time.
As we drive through the enormous property, all we can see is this magnificent 16th-century chateau standing proudly amongst 290 hectares (717 acres) of parkland and vineyards. We almost feel intimidated by the place and when we step inside we discover more grandiosity.
The entrance hall, the staircase and what we can see of the reception rooms look stunning, with high ceilings, period furniture and a distinctively royal feel, and we haven’t even seen the bedrooms yet. We have never slept in a castle before but we can’t help the grin on our faces – we know it’s going to be magical.
The 10 bedrooms upstairs are named after famous wine appellations in Bordeaux, like Saint-Emilion and Margaux. With 18th-century ‘toile de Jouy’ wall coverings, period furniture, high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the park, these rooms are just gorgeous. In our room, Chambre Pomerol, the white-and-red Jouy pattern is everywhere: on the walls, the curtains, the bedside tables and even the headboards. The chairs and the carpet are also red. This could be overwhelming for some but we actually find it quirkily attractive and original.
The bathroom is chic and clean. White with splashes of red (on the towels), it’s also overlooking the park. But there is something else we can’t fail to notice: there is no TV here, nor phone or radio. We’re completely cut from the outside world, somehow forced to relax and forget about the daily stress of modern life.
We decide to dress up for the occasion and head downstairs to the green reception room for dinner, where we are greeted by general manager Bruno Von der Heyden. His passion for the chateau and wine-making is evident. He explains this place is for people who share a love and respect for wine and its history, and who want to appreciate the French joie de vivre in unique, almost exclusive surroundings.
The dinner more than lives up to our expectations with a succession of beautifully cooked dishes, prepared by the wonderful, in-house cook Annie and accompanied by complementing wines. Scallops for starters, served with a bottle of Chateau de Chantegrive (white Graves, 2008), are followed by a deliciously tender filet mignon of beef with cep mushrooms and homemade, chunky chips, served with a bottle of the excellent Chateau de Malleret (red Haut-Médoc, 2006).
Cheese, dessert (crêpe with vanilla ice-cream and chocolate sauce) and more fabulous wine (a surprising Margaux from Malleret) follow. We are so merry by now we don’t have a care in the world. We’re completely smitten by the place and can’t help feeling like royalty, almost as if this was our own living room. Bedtime is looming but I can’t wait to retire to my princess room. Marie-Antoinette I hear you say?
In the morning, the magic continues with amazing park views as far as the eye can see. Breakfast is simple, fresh baguette, pains au chocolat and croissants with butter and jams, with a selection of juices, teas and coffee. We have just enough time to walk around the park, tour the wine cellar and do a wine-tasting before heading back to the airport and the real world.
One very interesting feature is the stables, dating to the 19th century when the former owner of the chateau developed a passion for horses after visiting England. That explains the horses in the park. In summer, the stables are used to stage classical music concerts. The acoustics are apparently perfect.
Another surprise is the presence of tree houses in the park. Added last year, they are owned by Natura Cabana, who offer a special two-night package in collaboration with the chateau. One night in a tree house followed by one night in the chateau only cost €375 (£313) for two, including all breakfasts and dinners.
Located just 20 minutes from Bordeaux‘s city centre and the airport, Chateau de Malleret is the perfect retreat for a romantic break in magnificent surroundings. Wine and history enthusiasts will love the place.
Chateau de Malleret
33290 Le Pian Médoc
Bordeaux, France
Tel: 05 5635 0536.
Website: www.chateau-malleret.fr
Price: Rooms cost from €190 to €210 for two including breakfast (£158-175).
