Chateau des Tesnieres
Torce (near Vitre), Brittany, France
Eclectic décor, huge suites and Dutch hospitality in a pristine 19th-century chateau near historic Vitré
Dutch Francophiles John and Siebren intended to settle in Normandy,
and it was only by chance that in 2003 they spotted this milk-white
Renaissance-style castle, hidden in 15 acres of tranquil parkland
on Brittany’s eastern border. It was love at first sight:
previous plans were shelved, and the work of turning the place into
a luxury 5-suite B&B began.
Contemporary art and furnishings that John and Siebren had enjoyed
in their large Amsterdam flat were skilfully blended with local
antiques and original features, like exquisite panelling and
chestnut parquet floors. One of their most stunning purchases was a
19th-century carved canopied bed that’s now the centrepiece
of a honeymoon suite which is in hot demand among newly-weds.
Breakfasts are in front of a superb fireplace bearing the coat of
arms of the ancient De Langle family, who built the castle in 1852
and inhabited it until the war. One of Brittany’s best
preserved medieval towns, Vitré, lies 10km up the road, and
there are dramatic castles, timbered villages, prehistoric sites,
golf and riding within a short drive.
Reviewed by Clare Hargreaves
Last updated 13 October 2011
Highs
- The chateau at night, when the lights shine through the stone fretwork around the windows to create a magical effect of illuminated lace
- Beautiful Vitré, with its huge castle and timbered houses, is one of Brittany’s historic jewels
- The soothing views over the chateau's private parkland, especially from the turrets' private sitting rooms
- The tranquillity – the nearest road is miles away
Lows
- Being Dutch owned, don't come here for an immersion into French language and culture - though on the other hand it's great having such multi-lingual hosts
- Interiors are large and impressive; if you prefer cosy and bijou, look elsewhere
- You'll need a car, as the B&B doesn't serve dinner and the nearest restaurant is in Vitré
- It's not ideal for large families, though it would suit a couple with 1 child sleeping in the same room
