Luxury in the Loire Valley - Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé
Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé is the newest addition to Pilot Hotels founded by Marcy and Tom Holthus. The Hothus' have a penchant for restoring buildings of architectural heritage and engaged Paul Allen Design to transform this historic Château into the most exquisite luxury hotel.
Every detail has been expertly designed with their guest's experience front of mind. This is the quintessential wedding venue or romantic getaway destination for Francophiles far and wide.
In the 18th Century, Baron Pineau de Viennay III commissioned architect Mathieu de Bayeux to design a modern palace in place of his medieval castle.
The property has changed hands only four times and has been partly restored by each owner - but the most recent restoration exceeds the others; bringing the Château into the 21st Century - the well appointed furnishings, finishes and amenities meet the demands of the most discerning traveler.
Arriving in the main foyer a stunning gilded Napoleon III marble center table indicates to guests that this is a refined and sophisticated hotel that will exceed their expectations.
From here the eye is drawn to the grounds beyond through an avenue of sweetly scented tilleul trees and pointed topiaries - a breathtaking welcome.
When selecting a boudoir one is spoilt for choice. Each room has been thoughtfully decorated with expertly curated antiques, fabrics and heavenly bed linen.
The elegant King Suite boasts superb village views. The room is decorated with Manuel Canovas Jardin du Luxembourg wall coverings with matching draperies.
Superb antiques including a gold leaf trumeau mirror, Provincial walnut armoire and crystal chandelier complement the classical features of the room.
The large King Suite garden view room connects guests with the vast cultivated gardens through feminine floral wallpaper and iridescent fabric that surrounds large casement windows.
The marble fireplace is flanked by a grand pair of Maison Jansen Louis XVI style armchairs.
Views over the market place, village rooftops and church steeple can be enjoyed from the Queen Suite. Resplendent aubergine and olive green fabrics and wall coverings enrich the bedroom and adjoining sitting room.
Marble topped Napoleon III nightstands and an elegant Louis XVI console frame the crowned beds.
The Baron's Suite is without doubt the most opulent choice of all. Soaring ceilings, herringbone oak floors and superb views of the formal gardens are just a few highlights.
The Baron's suite also has a private library not to mention the famed Salon Chinois. Dating from the 18th Century, the walls were painted by the artist Jean-Baptiste Pillement (1728 – 1808). Pillement's œuvres are also on display in the Louvre, the National Gallery in Washington DC,and in the private chateau of Marie Antoinette, The Petit Trianon, in the Palace of Versailles.
A venture into the expansive grounds is pure delight. The formal gardens, productive potager and woodlands are superb spaces to wander and relax.
Poolside, one can enjoy views back to the master building and marvel at the the huge array of young plants being raised in the greenhouse.
The orangerie faces the lawns of the swimming pool, behind is the majestic ballroom which was once stables but now is poised to hold exceptional soirées.
There is also a delightful restaurant and inviting bar - these spaces have been designed with an artful mix of antique and modern furnishings.
The unveiling of the new Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé makes the Loire Valley a mandatory destination for those who delight in French history and yearn to experience Château life.
Image Credit: Adam Lynk, Puxan Photography, Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé, Chez Pluie Provence
Chez Pluie is proud to have supplied antique furniture, lighting and decoration for the Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé.
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