Nature, heritage, and Normandy, a stone’s throw from Giverny

Sylvie and Alain, passionate custodians of Château de Bonnemare, open their doors to you in the heart of picturesque Normandy, just over an hour from Paris. This 16th-century treasure and listed Historical Monument boasts a red-brick façade – a discreet nod to the warm welcome that awaits. The immersion begins with the sound of gravel crunching beneath your feet as you enter a wide, verdant driveway and pass through the gatehouse, nestled between two towers that have become emblematic of the site. Both majestic and proud, Château de Bonnemare promises an authentic, exotic experience in the heart of 54 acres of nature.

From the entrance, you will catch sight of the rare, remarkably well-preserved period timber, which hints at the magic of the setting. As for the rooms, legend has it that Bonnemare hosted kings Charles VII and Charles IX, who loved to hunt in the area. Expect the royal treatment! Reflecting art de vivre so typical of the Renaissance and the Grand Siècle, the hotel takes you back through time without you even looking at the clock. One of the château’s most iconic features is the vast kitchen on the first floor, dating back to the late 16th century. Original stonework covers the floor, and the room has a hearth featuring three cooking modes: an ingenious turning spit (inspired by Leonardo da Vinci), a hanging skewer, and a pastry oven. This is where guests enjoy breakfast in a delightfully historic atmosphere.

Close to the château, the chapel inevitably catches the eye with its striking curved roof, modern stained-glass windows, and 17th-century decorations.

Whether you’re here for a wedding, a seminar, or a getaway, you’ll leave Bonnemare feeling nostalgic for the golden days of old.

Radepont, the Eure department, Normandy