Chateau Chanterelles

The villa

Take a step back into French history as you enter the 17th century Château Chanterelles, originally a hunting lodge owned by a chancellor who served as Minister of Finances under both Louis XIII and Louis XIV. Rich in heritage yet beautifully reimagined for modern living, this remarkable home combines centuries of character with a fresh, artistic spirit, set in the picturesque Sologne region of central France.

Guests enjoy access to the spacious and private south wing of this historic château building, complete with its own entrance, garden and heated swimming pool. It’s a cherished family home and has undergone a remarkable refurbishment under the guidance of its current owner, an accomplished interior designer, former founder of a luxury bridal boutique, and a midwife. This extensive programme of renovations has enhanced every aspect of the home, bringing warmth, colour and contemporary style while respecting the building's historic character.

At the heart lies a strikingly redesigned kitchen where exposed brickwork, carefully chosen prints and elegant finishes create a sophisticated gathering space, complete with a SMEG range cooker and other high end appliances. The salon has also been transformed, featuring sumptuous seating, the original fireplace and a designer dining table that encourages long conversations and relaxed evenings together.

Sleeping 14 to 15 guests across seven bedrooms and five bathrooms, plus a gorgeous TV lounge with a huge sofa bed, Château Chanterelles is ideal for families and groups seeking an authentic French escape. Outside, the heated swimming pool invites long days in the sunshine, while the terrace and barbecue area provides the perfect setting for al fresco dining or a glass of chilled Crémant de Loire. Beyond the garden gate, guests also enjoy access to the château's shared 23 hectare parkland with woodland, river frontage and a fishing lake.

Set in the delightful village of Brinon sur Sauldre, Château Chanterelles offers a wonderful introduction to the authentic charm of the Sologne region. Within a short stroll, guests will find traditional village life unfolding around picturesque streets, historic churches, local shops and welcoming eateries.

The surrounding countryside is dotted with pretty villages, forests and waterways, whilst further afield the celebrated châteaux of the Loire Valley are within reach for unforgettable day trips. Whether exploring the area's rich heritage, enjoying long summer days by the pool or gathering loved ones in this characterful home, Château Chanterelles offers a truly memorable French experience.

In the pretty village of Brinon - sur - Sauldre, Château Chanterelles allows guests to experience the gentle rhythm of traditional French life. Around half an hour south of the Loire River, here you are surrounded by the natural beauty and authentic charm of the Sologne region, almost half way between Orléans (50km) and Sancerre (58km). 

Located on a road leading to the heart of the village, within a 2 - minute walk you can admire picturesque houses, two impressive churches and useful amenities including a bakery, a grocery store, pharmacy and a small handful of places to eat. Larger supermarkets can be found within a 10 to 15 - minute drive. Back at Château Chanterelles, guests enjoy access (via a small gate in the garden) to the château’s shared 23 - hectare parkland with a fishing lake, forest and river frontage. 

Beyond Brinon - sur - Sauldre, several other characterful villages and market towns are waiting to be explored. Wander through the elegant streets of Aubigny - sur - Nère (18km), often referred to as the “City of the Stuarts” thanks to its fascinating Franco - Scottish heritage and beautiful half - timbered buildings. Nearby Chaon (8.5km) is another delightful stop, surrounded by forests and waterways that reflect the region’s tranquil character. Other gems across the enchanting Sologne include Souvigny - en - Sologne (13km), Saint - Viâtre (26km) and Lamotte - Beuvron (20km), each offering their own unique charm. 

Venture a little further to discover gorgeous places such as Ligny - le - Ribault (44km), Jouy - le - Potier (46km) and Romorantin - Lanthenay (49km), the historic capital of Sologne. Nature lovers can enjoy countless forest walks and cycle rides, while history enthusiasts may wish to visit Château de La Ferté - Imbault (33km), one of the region’s most impressive historic estates.

For wider exploration, Orléans (50km) offers magnificent architecture, riverside walks and links to Joan of Arc’s remarkable story. The legendary Loire Valley châteaux are also within reach for spectacular days out around 1 to 2 hours by car, including Château de Chambord, Château de Cheverny, Château de Chenonceau, Château d’Amboise, and Clos Lucé (108km), Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence. 

If arriving by plane, Paris and Tours are the nearest options to consider while ferry ports such as Caen, Dieppe and Calais are approximately four to five hours away by car, making Château Chanterelles an accessible yet wonderfully traditional French getaway.