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Very attractive holiday home in the grounds of an historic chateau - Le Bastion du Prince Noir

Weekly Rental:From GBP To be agreed to GBP 4200

Property

Houses

Sleeps

14

Single/Double

/ 7

Bathrooms

5

Pets

Not Allowed

Pool

Yes

To be able to stay in any part of Chateau de Poudenas is a privilege, a great pleasure and an opportunity to step back into living history - and at the same time to enjoy a really special family holiday. Built in the C13 by ancestors of the family who still own and live in it, these magnificent, part-fortified buildings today reflect eight centuries of the intertwined history of France and England. You will approach the Chateau up a winding road that climbs steeply past the ancient village of Poudenas. Arriving at the top, you enter the lovely park and arboretum that is one of the features of Chateau de Poudenas. Going direct to the main buildings (the Chateau itself) you will arrive in the impressive 'Court d'Honneur'. Where you go next will depend on which of the guest buildings you have booked for your stay. There are three options, each explained in more detail below, but summarized as:

Le 'Bastion' du Prince Noir - sleeps 14 in 7 double bedrooms

The Chateau Apartment - sleeps 16 in 8 double bedrooms

Maison Simone - sleeps 8 in 4 double bedrooms, and can be booked together with
Maison Olive - sleeps 2 in 1 one double bedroom

Total guest accommodation is 40 people but Simply Gascony clients usually book the 'Bastion' property which has a private swimming pool, a large private garden and lovely outdoor covered dining terrace.

First impressions as you approach through the Park and past the old stone farm buildings, stables and ancient chapel, are of serious mediaeval architecture: massive stone walls, the old moat, an arched gateway with remains of a portcullis - you can imagine an army camped nearby... and in 1369 there was in fact an army here, laying siege to the castle. It was led by Edward, The Black Prince - also Duke of Aquitaine and feudal overlord to the Count of Poudenas, owner of the castle. Although the Count was a loyal subject of Edward Plantagenet, Edward the First, King of England, he had refused to pay a new tax imposed by the Black Prince. The Black Prince of course attacked the Count in his castle, but this time the siege failed, which was perhaps a turning point in The Hundred Years War!

Once through the arched gateway and in the 'Court d'Honneur' you can see how the mediaeval castle was transformed In the C17 into a grand 'Italianate' villa built around a courtyard in the Tuscan style, the basis of today's very comfortable and stylish 'Country House'. On the left as you enter the Court are the State Rooms (and see below) while across the Court is another archway through into the 'Petit Court': the Apartment rooms are grouped around this charming small courtyard garden.  Detached from tmain chateau with separate access, gardens and swimming pool, is Le Bastion du Prince Noir.

Le Bastion du Prince Noir (available all year)

The main holiday rental property is called 'Le Bastion du Prince Noir', to commemorate the siege of the castle by Edward, The Black Prince, as described above. Edward was a famous and formidable general, so the Counts of Poudenas are justifiably proud of their famous victory, and named their guest house after the Prince because it is built into one of the 'Bastions', massive stone fortifications in the perimeter wall, that defied the Prince's siege. The 'Bastion' is now a very attractive, comfortable, well-equipped stone-built house with shuttered windows that has:

7 double bedrooms, sleeping 14
5 bath/shower rooms
Large, galleried sitting room with huge stone fireplace
Kitchen/Dining Room
Outside covered Dining Terrace
Large walled/fenced garden
Secure fenced salt water Swimming pool
TV & WiFi.

The Chateau Apartment (summer only)

8 double bedrooms, including a massive Master Suite, sleeping 16, 3 on the ground floor and 5 on the first floor
6 bathrooms
Fully equipped kitchen/dining room
Large Sitting Room with fireplace, TV and WiFi.

Also in the main building, you will have access by arrangement to the architecturally intriguing State Rooms and Italian terraces, including the formal Dining Room, Guard Room, Library, Reception Room, Billiard Room and the 'Ecurie', now a Banqueting Hall. From the terraces there are amazing views over the old village that shelters under the Chateau walls, and across the valley of the river Gelise.


La Maison de Simone (summer only)

This property has been recently created by the owners of Chateau Poudenas by converting a set of old stone-built estate buildings. Maison de Simone is South-facing and situated across the other side of a large lawn from the main chateau buildings.

4 double bedrooms, sleeping 8
2 bathrooms
Sitting Room with fireplace
 

La Maison d'Olive (summer only)

A small apartment next to, and offered in association with, Maison de Simone if more space is required. Maison d'Olive has the same views and peaceful location as Maison de Simone.

1 double bedroom and bathroom.
 

The Chateau Gardens

A particularly attractive feature of Chateau de Poudenas is the 25 acres (10 hectares) of gardens which were planted in C17 and C18 to complement the 'Italian conversion' of the chateau. No fewer than a hundred different species can be found if you look carefully! Cedars from the Atlas and from Lebanon, several varieties of oaks, walnuts, elms, ash, maples, elms from Siberia, wild cherry trees, ginkos, khakis, linden trees and many others. This also provides wonderful play-space for children and lots of places for quiet reading and reflection. You can take a path lined with cypresses, some of which date from the 17th century, the time when the Gascon fortress was transformed into an Italian villa open for festivities.

This theme of 'entertainment' continues today under the ownership of Alix and Jean de Nadaillac, descendants of the same Counts of Poudenas who built the Chateau 800 years ago. Nowadays, the Court d'Honneur is sometimes used for musical and theatrical performances, and to host weddings and other events, with the capacity comfortably to seat up to 500 people for a conference or receive 200 for a wedding dinner. Because of these activities, Alix and Jean, who live in the main part of the Chateau, and their team of professional staff are able to offer a wide range of additional services, including full catering, extra cleaning and baby-sitting for any holiday guests who required this.

Chateau de Poudenas and Le Bastion du Prince Noir offer an unforgettable holiday experience for a small or large family, or group of friends. Other places can do this but here there is the extra dimension of 800 years of a rich and well-presented historical and architectural story that resonates from the buildings, the people, the site and the village around.

 

PHOTOS

Kitchenware Appliances

Cooker/Hob Fridge Freezer Microwave Toaster Kettle Dish Washer High Chair Washing Machine

Fixtures & Equipment

Hairdryer Iron Central Heating Log Fire TV Satellite DVD Player Internet Access Table Tennis

External Features

Private Pool - Unheated Pool Barrier/Alarm Fitted Private Garden Shared Tennis Court BBQ Sun Loungers : Yes Suitable for Children

Other Interior Facilities

Covered outdoor dining area

Local Attractions

• Gastronomy
Gascony is renowned for its gastronomic quality - from traditional regional specialities such as cassoulet, duck confit, and pâté de foie gras, to excellent local vin de pays and world-famous Armagnac. If you would like to learn how to cook these dishes yourself, we can willingly organise the lesson for you.

• Cruise the Canal du Midi or Canal de Garonne - just for a day!
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal was originally built to serve as a short cut between the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans in the late 17th Century. 240km in length, the canal is divided into the Canal du Midi, between Sete and Toulouse, and the Canal de Garonne between Toulouse and Bordeaux. You can hire a boat and boatman for a day, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board and experience the rare peace and tranquility of this ancient waterway.

• Cycling or walking
Our rolling landscape could have been designed for cycling and walking. While the scenery is easy on the eye, the gentle gradients are easy on the thighs. With options suitable for all levels of fitness, anyone and everyone who wishes, can get out and enjoy the countryside. Just ask us to point you towards the best routes near the house that you have rented.

• Horse Riding
If you are passionate about horses, you're in for a treat! The choice is excellent and the choice is yours - from riding lessons to guided treks on horseback. Or you can even rent a horse-drawn caravan and spend a day meandering along quiet country roads, pausing to enjoy a picnic or perhaps a spot of fishing.

• Accrobranche
For the more energetic among you, we can recommend an unforgettable afternoon in 300 acres of woodland at Accrobranche. Secured by ropes and guided by sure-handed professionals, you can release your inner Tarzan (or Jane) by swinging among the trees, crossing hanging bridges and negotiating obstacles suspended in mid-air. As the song says: Memories are made of this!

• Hot air balloon rides
Weather permitting, there is no better way to discover our beautiful countryside... Up, up and away, in our beautiful balloons - it certainly beats driving, any day!

• Water Sports
Wake-boarding, windsurfing, canoeing - all are readily available to you throughout the summer period. If you need lessons, they're available too. If you're already expert, we can point you to it - like ducks to water.

• Walibi water park in Agen
The Walibi Park has all the fun-filled rides and shows that your children could wish for - but with French style, including 'Splash Battle' and ' Radja River' plus some amazing performing seals. Your children are guaranteed an unforgettable day out!

• Fishing Lessons
Professional fishing tuition is on hand throughout your stay, particularly suitable for getting your children started in good company.

• Mini Golf
There are various mini golf courses around the area where the whole family can enjoy an afternoon or night out.

• Relaxation
Experience the natural thermal baths in Lectoure, or enjoy a family day in the Caliceo spa centre near Toulouse. If you prefer to be pampered in situ, we can arrange for a qualified beauty therapist and masseuse to visit you at the house for massage, manicure, and facials. Why not treat yourself - you're on holiday!

• Sport
Enjoy a round of golf at Fleurance, or play tennis on one of the courts near your house - either can be booked for a small fee. We can also arrange for private or group lessons with a professional coach. For competitive teenagers, go-karting and paintballing can also be arranged. In fact, as you would expect, most conventional leisure or sporting activities are available in Gascony, so if you have a particular request, please do not hesitate to ask us.

• General
To help you plan and so make the most of your time in Gascony, we are more than happy to provide you with up to date information on everything that's happening in the region - from jazz festivals to salsa events, from classical concerts to bandas, from wine and garlic festivals to car boot sales, from antique fairs to village fêtes and night markets. All you have to do is ask!

Availability Calendar

2024
January   2024
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Tue
Wed
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Sat
Sun
February   2024
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Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun
April   2024
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Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
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Sun
September   2024
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Tue
Wed
Thu
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October   2024
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Tue
Wed
Thu
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November   2024
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Tue
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December   2024
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2024

Property Exterior

Private Pool (Unheated):
Yes
Pool Barrier / Alarm Fitted:
Yes
Private Garden:
Yes
Shared Tennis Court:
Yes
BBQ:
Yes
Sun Loungers:
Yes
Safe for Children:
Yes

Local Attractions

• Gastronomy
Gascony is renowned for its gastronomic quality - from traditional regional specialities such as cassoulet, duck confit, and pâté de foie gras, to excellent local vin de pays and world-famous Armagnac. If you would like to learn how to cook these dishes yourself, we can willingly organise the lesson for you.

• Cruise the Canal du Midi or Canal de Garonne - just for a day!
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal was originally built to serve as a short cut between the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans in the late 17th Century. 240km in length, the canal is divided into the Canal du Midi, between Sete and Toulouse, and the Canal de Garonne between Toulouse and Bordeaux. You can hire a boat and boatman for a day, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board and experience the rare peace and tranquility of this ancient waterway.

• Cycling or walking
Our rolling landscape could have been designed for cycling and walking. While the scenery is easy on the eye, the gentle gradients are easy on the thighs. With options suitable for all levels of fitness, anyone and everyone who wishes, can get out and enjoy the countryside. Just ask us to point you towards the best routes near the house that you have rented.

• Horse Riding
If you are passionate about horses, you're in for a treat! The choice is excellent and the choice is yours - from riding lessons to guided treks on horseback. Or you can even rent a horse-drawn caravan and spend a day meandering along quiet country roads, pausing to enjoy a picnic or perhaps a spot of fishing.

• Accrobranche
For the more energetic among you, we can recommend an unforgettable afternoon in 300 acres of woodland at Accrobranche. Secured by ropes and guided by sure-handed professionals, you can release your inner Tarzan (or Jane) by swinging among the trees, crossing hanging bridges and negotiating obstacles suspended in mid-air. As the song says: Memories are made of this!

• Hot air balloon rides
Weather permitting, there is no better way to discover our beautiful countryside... Up, up and away, in our beautiful balloons - it certainly beats driving, any day!

• Water Sports
Wake-boarding, windsurfing, canoeing - all are readily available to you throughout the summer period. If you need lessons, they're available too. If you're already expert, we can point you to it - like ducks to water.

• Walibi water park in Agen
The Walibi Park has all the fun-filled rides and shows that your children could wish for - but with French style, including 'Splash Battle' and ' Radja River' plus some amazing performing seals. Your children are guaranteed an unforgettable day out!

• Fishing Lessons
Professional fishing tuition is on hand throughout your stay, particularly suitable for getting your children started in good company.

• Mini Golf
There are various mini golf courses around the area where the whole family can enjoy an afternoon or night out.

• Relaxation
Experience the natural thermal baths in Lectoure, or enjoy a family day in the Caliceo spa centre near Toulouse. If you prefer to be pampered in situ, we can arrange for a qualified beauty therapist and masseuse to visit you at the house for massage, manicure, and facials. Why not treat yourself - you're on holiday!

• Sport
Enjoy a round of golf at Fleurance, or play tennis on one of the courts near your house - either can be booked for a small fee. We can also arrange for private or group lessons with a professional coach. For competitive teenagers, go-karting and paintballing can also be arranged. In fact, as you would expect, most conventional leisure or sporting activities are available in Gascony, so if you have a particular request, please do not hesitate to ask us.

• General
To help you plan and so make the most of your time in Gascony, we are more than happy to provide you with up to date information on everything that's happening in the region - from jazz festivals to salsa events, from classical concerts to bandas, from wine and garlic festivals to car boot sales, from antique fairs to village fêtes and night markets. All you have to do is ask!

In the area

This Property is situated in Lot-et-Garonne, Aquitaine

Nearest Airport: TOULOUSE AIRPORT - 1 HOUR 50 MINUTES & BORDEAUX AIRPORT - 1 HOUR 40 MINUTES

Nearest Station: AGEN TRAIN STATION - 45 MINUTES

Nearest Ferry:

Nearest Beach: Vieux-Boucau-les-Bains, Landes

Nearest Ski Resort: St Lary, Pyrenees

Please note that the location on this map is an approximate guide, normally to the closest town or village.


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Whether you're planning your next holiday, or simply want to find out more about our properties, you can contact our Owners & Agents directly for more information

Contact Person: Robin Dunipace

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