Sometimes it can be fun to be immersed in the vibrant culture and bustle of a city. It’s easy to spend a week in places like London, Paris, Berlin, and Rome without ever running out of things to do or places to visit. But sometimes people just need to kick back and relax in a more secluded locale; get away from the throbbing nightlife and daily grind and take a breath of fresh air.
But just because you’re getting out of the major cities and the crowds that come with them, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort and class. And one of the best places to get away to in Europe is the French Countryside.
France has long been at the pinnacle of luxury. Ever since the 14th century, French Chateaus and castles have stood the test of time and shown the world what elegance done right can look like. While many think of Parisian cafes and the Eiffel tower, France can be the perfect place for someone looking to escape it all and head to the picturesque scenes of rural and coastal France.
So if you’re looking to an escape in one of Europe’s most pristine and jaw-dropping countries, here are our top five places to escape the busy swarms of city life and still live in luxury across the great nation of France.
Auberge du Jeu de Paume, Chantilly
Tucked into the beautiful rural community of Chantilly, north of Paris, the Auberge du Jeu de Paume features 92 rooms and suites decked out in all the finery of a classic French Chateaux, like the Domaine de Chantilly right next door. Mixing prestige and tradition throughout its lavish decor, this hotel features two critically acclaimed restaurants such as the La Table du Connétable. Guests can choose services from the salons, professional spa, and fitness center. In addition to this, they also feature access to both golf and equestrian sports to help encapsulate their classic approach to French luxury. Private lounges decked out in a chic, warm atmosphere awaits you here as you enjoy the rolling green Parisian countryside in style.
Hotel de la Cité Carcassonne, Carcassonne
The Hotel de la Cité can be your own “fortress of solitude”. Located in the heart of the medieval fortified city of Carcassonne, this 5-star hotel located within ancient walls was built in the 19th century in a Neo-Gothic style. The hotel has 47 rooms, 13 suites, and features an outdoor pool and shaded park perfect for spending a relaxing evening in. Chef Jérôme Ryon serves up delicacies at the Barbacane restaurant that would rival the greatest restaurants of Paris, all from the comfort of your luxury castle stay. Enjoy your well-deserved reprieve amidst sculpted wood paneling, ornamental tapestries, and stained-glass windows all carefully crafted by French craftsmen to create a warm and intimate atmosphere you can truly kick back in.
Chateau Eza, Éze
Located along the ancient and beautiful coast of France’s Cote d’Azur, Château Eza is considered by many the most stunning chateau in the French Rivera. With 14 intimate rooms and suites of this 400-year-old Chateau, this former residence of a Swedish prince offers a breathtaking view and a gourmet restaurant that is known across the region for serving the finest of local French delicacies. Private balconies overlooking Cote d’Azur and terraces will give you the long-deserved breath of fresh sea air in a place brimming with history. With rooms decked out in every style to fit every need, this escape is perfect for a solo trip or an outing with friends and family.
Chateau de la Chevre d’Or, Éze
Another prime Riviera location, the Chateau de la Chevre d’Or is a majestic hotel with terraces overlooking the azure-blue Mediterranean. Four restaurants and a seaside bar make this the perfect place to enjoy a classically mixed drink while taking some time off. Rooms and suites are decked out in a beautiful yet eclectic collection of both classic and modern decor. Spend dinner eating at Restaurant Les Remparts and enjoy locally crafted signature dishes like roasted codfish, stuffed red peppers with brandade and garlic tomato juice. A collection of wellness and relaxation treatments await you as this seaside paradise offers a wide variety of spa treatments and physical health program suitably tailored to fit every guest’s needs.
Chateau d’Audrieu, Audrieu
“Living à la Française” is the embodiment of what Chateau d’Audrieu is all about, and this massive mansion-turned-hotel is a must-see for anyone looking to explore and relax in the lavish cascades of Normandy. From classic rooms furnished in period luxury to a luxury tree-house on the grounds itself, this Chateau is a perfect choice for two to three guests looking to get away. Dine-in with the best brunch in Normandy, then spend the evening touring and glossing over the exceptional and regionally renowned wine cellar. Arrange for an evening nightcap at The Bar Le 1715 surrounded by the elegant, preserved oak paneling. Guests here may also enjoy a lovely swim in an outdoor heated swimming pool as well as yoga in the immaculate flower garden. Whatever your pleasure might be, Chateau d’Audrieu will make you feel like the Lord of the Manor.
France is a great place to escape the bustle of everyday life. The French countryside is filled with natural beauty and simple pleasures but is also home to some of the finest and most glamorous chateaus in Europe. From Normandy to the shores of the Mediterranean, luxury hotels are offering a unique and chic escape for anyone looking to escape the city skylines and exchange it for manicured lawns and enthralling garden vistas. Classic French dining is everywhere to be seen, offering a unique flavor and taste you can treat yourself to every night if it be your pleasure. Enjoy the historic towns, castles, manors, and estates, or spend your whole vacation in sweet solitude. Whatever the case may be, France is waiting for you, and her hotel chateaus are a fantastic way to get to know her. Bienvenue!
Guido Graf is Founder of Privateupgrades. Privateupgrades is a global luxury travel club with over 20 years of experience in luxury hotels, ensuring exclusive VIP privileges like upgrades, free breakfast, free nights, rate discounts, free airport transfers, free massages and much more.
Source: Read Full Article