Le Castel

Revel in the relaxed grandeur of a 19th-century Normandy chateau, done the English way

‘Laid back’ and ‘chateau’ aren’t words that always go together in France, but at Le Castel they’re effortlessly fused. English owner Jon, who gave up a London flat and a high-flying job on The News of the World to move here, is the perfect host, running the Napoleon III chateau like one long house party.

The mansion, in 4 acres of parkland, started life as a hideaway for the mistress of a Parisian socialite and, as you twist your way here along country lanes, you can see why. But once you find it, the fun begins. Aperitifs are served on leather sofas by a roaring fire, a four-course candlelit dinner is set outside on the terrace or beside the baby grand piano. In your antique-furnished bedroom – named with a smidgeon of irony after figures like Napoleon and Josephine – the only sound likely to disturb your slumber is the owls. There are generally plenty of other guests to fraternise with, but if not you’ll enjoy Jon's easy company and the beautiful surroundings.

Highs

• An idyllic location in rolling country near the cathedral city of Coutances, Mont St Michel, Bayeux and the sandy D Day Beaches
• Space – lashings of it both in the rooms and outside
• The perfect place to bring a group of friends or family, and let someone else do the cooking; the evening feasts are renowned
• The unfussy, homely atmosphere, with games/TV room, honesty bar and free tea and coffee in the kitchen
• Jon is an attentive and generous host, but he will respect your space when you want it

Lows

• Furnishings are antiques and often intentionally well worn, so if you seek contemporary chic, this is probably not the place for you
• In peak months the house fills with families or groups of friends; if you’re after a romantic hideaway, go off-season or move into the gite
• Not suitable for people who are allergic to cats