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A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area

Photo gallery for A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area

Main Facade
Main Facade and South-West Facade with Deck and Pool
Exterior
Pool
Pergola, Deck and Pool

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2+ bathroomsSleeps 7190 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Chitenay, Centre-Val De Loire
  • Château de Fougeres
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Château de Cheverny
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Royal Château of Blois
    ‪24 min drive‬
  • Blois (XBQ)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed and 1 Crib

2 bathrooms, 2 half bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Toilet

Bathroom 3

Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Hair dryer

Bathroom 4

Towels provided · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area

La Menagerie is a 18th century wine-maker’s house, set on two floors (approximately 2045 square feet).

The main cottage can accommodate up to six adults in three bedrooms. Two of the bedrooms are on the ground floor. One --sometimes referred as the Master's BR-- has a queen size bed and the other one features twin beds. A full bathroom with WC, shower is available on that same floor, plus a separate WC in a powder room.
The third bedroom, under the rooftop upstairs, is en suite with a library and desk on one side, and a full bathroom with bathtub/shower and separate WC on the other side. A family room with large sofas, flat smart TV and sound system is also available upstairs.
In case you would have to add two more guests for your family and siblings reunion there is a side/self standing charming cottage next to this main cottage on the same courtyard, overlooking the pool and deck. The "Other Cottage" has a veranda/breakfast nook, a fully equipped kitchen, full bathroom and a bedroom/living room with a full size bed that can accommodate two guests in comfort. And In case you would need one more bedroom for a couple (that is up to a total of 4 guests in the "Other Cottage"), a large bedroom that connects with the ground floor unit through an indoor staircase can also be rented-out. This bedroom, under the rooftop, is actually the largest in the property. It has a queen size bed and has the most spectacular views over the countryside surroundings.

If you would like to see details about this additional options you can check them out on that same listing site (HomeAwayUK) under "The Other Cottage at La Ménagerie".

However, in order to ensure full privacy to your party during, if you only rent the Main Cottage for six guests, the "Other Cottage" and "The Barn at La Ménagerie", will not be rented-out to other parties during your stay.

The renovation of the main cottage was completed in 2005. It preserved its character while making it as comfortable as any contemporary home, with broadband wireless Internet connection, top quality heating system and Finnish SAUNA, washer & separate dryer among other amenities.

The ground floor is composed of a large living and dining room that open to a joint kitchen with a bar stand, two bedrooms, a full bathroom plus a powder room with a toilet and basin, and a laundry room. The third bedroom is upstairs and has a double bed under the rooftop. It is lightened with two dormer windows and is en suite with another full bathroom that has a bathtub. The bedroom also opens into a library. On this same floor, there is a family room with a flat-screen smart TV and sound system.

Property manager

Patrick

Languages

English, French, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 28
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Must pay attention to quality furniture
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 25 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Must never be left home alone. Extra cleaning fee.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Smoking indoor and outdoor is STRICTLY forbidden.
A draft lease agreement will be sent to potential guests for their review and approval at the same time as a request for payment.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

We should mention

Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 1000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Chitenay

Located in Chitenay, this cottage is in a rural area and near theme parks. Notable landmarks in the area include Château de Cheverny and Château de Chambord. Travelling with kids? Consider Musée d'Histoire Naturelle and Les P’tits Clous. Discover the area's water adventures with windsurfing and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours and hiking.
Map
Chitenay, Centre-Val De Loire

What's nearby

  • Château de Fougeres - 5 min drive - 3.7 km
  • Château de Cheverny - 12 min drive - 10.1 km
  • St. Louis Cathedral - 22 min drive - 17.9 km
  • Royal Château of Blois - 24 min drive - 19.2 km
  • Office de Tourisme de Blois Chambord - 24 min drive - 19.3 km

Getting around

  • La Chaussee-St-Victor Station - 22 min drive
  • Tours (TUF-Tours - Loire Valley) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Maison des Vins de l'AOC Cheverny - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Les Trois Marchands - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪St-Hubert - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Le Pinocchio - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪La Cour aux Crêpes - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 25 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A Four Seasons/Five Stars Loire Valley Cottage, Grand Chateaux Area located?

This family-friendly Chitenay cottage is located in a rural location, 2.4 mi (3.9 km) from Château de Fougeres, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Château de Troussay and Château de Beauregard. Terra Laura and Domaine Le Portail Cheverny are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 77 out of 83 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 83 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 83 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 83 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 83 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

8.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Ursula C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliant holiday

Thank you for having us to stay in your beautiful house, it was perfect, lovely area, lovely house, can’t recommend highly enough.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Holger A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Holidays

Beautiful property and grounds, extremely quiet.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Annemieke B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magnifique!

Everything was just perfect. We had a wonderful stay! Thanks to the housekeepers.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Clive E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Superb

A superb, well equipped property with everything you'd need for a family holiday.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Zoe B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous place!

Lovely property in a quiet place - great for relaxing. Can cycle to the Boulangerie on one of the many bikes kept at the property and big supermarket is about 15 min drive. We loved it!
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Renee Maura T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely La Menagerie

We cannot say enough about our stay at this absolute jewel of a property. It is even more charming in person. It has every amenity you could think of and incredible outdoor spaces. Take advantage of the badminton and the bicycles. The booking and checkin went very smoothly and the host provided a great deal of local information. We loved La Menagerie!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

mary rose m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent for any group

We were blown away with property. Everything needed for a large group. Excellent local restaurant Would recommend to small or large groups. Hope to return sometime soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Herbert F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

La Ménagerie

The house was in a beautiful setting and was well decorated and equipped as described. The small pool and sauna were fantastic. Brigitte and Jean Francois the caretakers were very helpful and a pleasure to deal with. We would stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gayle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful quiet location!

A beautiful place which is cozy and nicely decorated and furnished—a little out of town for a quiet, soothing visit. Outdoor dining area, lovely pool and a large play area with all sorts of sports equipment. A well-stocked kitchen, cd player and a variety of cds. Upstairs is a nice area to relax, watch tv, read, etc. All the bedrooms were very nice. Highly recommend Patrick’s lovely home and hospitality. Great base to visit regional chateaus.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Loire Valley Retreat

This is the second time I’ve stayed at La Menagerie and plan to return. It is such a lovely home. It feels delightfully secluded, but is still situated conveniently for visiting chateaux, dining out, obtaining groceries, etc. There are also so many things to do on property…swimming, ping pong, volleyball, croquet, boules, biking… that it takes some convincing to get myself to leave to see the rest of the countryside. 😊 You will fall in love with La Menagerie.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Yunoh K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great experience with my stay!

It was a family trip including some seniors and a baby and we had a lovely stay at this charming place. Everything was good from the large living room, kitchen, family room, bedrooms, fireplace, swimming pool, sauna, and outdoor sitting. The manager was very kind and was responsive to any questions we had. The only thing that was different from the online listing was that someone else was staying at the house next to it during our stay. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience and I'd come back again without a question!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jim B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A place to be

We found La Menagerie to be just as it appears in the pictures. We were greeted by Brigitte and Jean-François who made the check in and check out process easy. The property is in a very quiet area with several villages not far away and easy to find with a GPS navigation system; our car used TomTom. The house is very comfortable and clean; the property is restful with many amenities. There is a very nice bakery about 10 minutes away by car in the village of Cheverny . We would definitely stay here again but next time for a few more days.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

MARK S., Wellington

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing property in the Loire region

This is a wonderful property with lots of facilities in a very tranquil area. We thoroughly enjoyed relaxing at the property as well as day trips to the local Chateaus and bistros. We were greeted and introduced to the property by the wonderful Brigitte and Jean-Francois. Before then Patrick the owner shared so many great suggestions on where to go and see local sites or eat in the local area. It added to the holiday and made planning on what to do so much easier😀 The property is wonderful with comfy beds and lovely furniture and decor plus excellent outdoor areas for relaxing, eating and playing a variety of games. We highly recommend this property and the hosts who made it so easy to organise the trip and have a relaxing stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sharon G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming French country house!

We couldn't have been happier with this charming home and its amenities! It exceeded our expectations and had everything our whole family needed for an enjoyable stay. If you're looking to experience the French countryside and be within easy driving distance of major chateaux (Blois, Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceaux, and Amboise), this is the place for you! We took advantage of the small heated pool for swimming and also the available bikes to take a ride to nearby village Fougeres and its old castle. Caretakers were helpful. We spoke French with them since I'm a French teacher. We hope to go back someday!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dwayne R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing and better than the pictures

This is a beautiful property located in the heart of Chateau country. The pictures don't do it justice. It is clean and everything works as advertised including a washer and dryer. They have bicycles for riding around the flat countryside. And they provide ping pong, badminton and a small pool that is amazing for hot summer days. The owners are wonderful (but you'll need to speak French or use your phone to translate) and they have an English speaking manager Patrick. This place provides for an amazing experience in the French countryside.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Q P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage nestled in a rural area

Imagine a charming, idyllic cottage nestled in the countryside, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. This cozy retreat blends the comforts of home with a touch of luxury. As you step inside, you’re greeted by warm, inviting interiors with plush seating, rustic wooden beams, and a crackling fireplace that sets the mood for relaxation. The living area features a stunning collection of books, ranging from classic literature to modern bestsellers, along with a collection of CDs and sound systems for enjoying smooth jazz and classical music. The perfect ambiance is set for unwinding with friends in the evening, a glass of wine in hand, as the music fills the room. Beyond the living space, there’s a spacious, spa-like bathroom featuring a deep soaking bathtub, ideal for a long, relaxing soak. For an extra layer of indulgence, the cottage also boasts a luxurious hot sauna, perfect for warming up after a brisk day outside. Whether you’re cozying up indoors or sharing laughter with friends, this cottage offers the ultimate blend of comfort and sophistication, making every moment feel special.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Carmen K., Victoria BC Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous property in the Loire

We were a group of four who stayed in the main house at La Ménagerie in May. What a beautiful location, in a peaceful country setting, yet close to many of the Loire Valley's interesting sites and towns. The house and property are so lovely with tons of space to spread out. We were happy to have the well maintained pool to cool off in, given the heat we experienced. The owner, Patrick, was very easy to deal with and very hepful when there was a small mix up with VRBO reservation process. The caretakers, Brigitte and Jean-François, take great care of the property and house, and were very responsive to any questions. The barn was rented out to another party during our stay, but this did not pose a problem as they were very quiet and their outdoor space is very separate from the main house's. We would not hesitate to return to La Ménagerie in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

6/10 Okay

Melanie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, location
Disliked: Check-in, communication

Beautiful but hidden charges and conditions

The house was beautiful, well equipped with sports equipment and well located. Unfortunately there were undisclosed conditions, eg check in only before 7pm which was impossible for us given our travel plans, pool heating charge, dog charge and a deduction from our cash deposit due to the house being left dirty (reasons given being towels left on the bathroom floor at the end by the children and DVDs left out of order). The owner claimed these terms were all in "the contract" but when I found the "Standard Conditions" doc in my emails they were not, nor were they included in the property listing on Vrbo. This all left a rather unpleasant taste, unfortunately.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Oliver H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wunderschönes Haus, exzellente Betreuung

Es passte alles: idyllische Lage des Hauses, komplette Austattung, zuverlässiges Management vor Ort, sehr freundlicher Gastgeber. Wir hatten einen wichtigen Gegenstand bei der Abreise im Haus vergessen und wurden umgehend angerufen, sodass wir noch rechtzeitig umkehren konnten, um ihn mit heimzunehmen. Jederzeit wieder und vielen Dank!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

jikkie v.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

La menagerie

La menagerie was fantastisch voor ons. Het is een erg leuk huis, maar lange mensen moet op de balken letten. Alles was zeer goed verzorgd. We werden zeer hartelijk ontvangen. Goede bedden, prima fietsen en een voortreffelijk ( klein ). Wij vonden de omgeving van Chitenay inspirerend. Genoeg te doen, en eenmaal thuis een verrukkelijke rust en stilte. Slechts af en toe verstoord door wat reetjes.
Stayed 28 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andreas K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wunderbarer Rückzugsort

Wir genossen das sehr geschmackvolle und komplett ausgestattete Haus mit dem gepflegten Garten als Basis für unsere Besuche der Sehenswürdigkeiten der Umgebung. Ideal für Leute, die Ruhe suchen. Sehr netter Gastgeber!
Stayed 8 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

S. D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Entspannte Osterferienwoche

Eine Woche Ferien mit drei erwachsenen Kindern. Zeit zum Lesen, gemeinsam kochen und essen, Tischtennis und Boule spielen, Filme schauen, draußen sitzen, die Ruhe genießen und jeden Tag ein anderes Schloss besichtigen. Hier kam jeder auf seine Kosten. Sehr geschmackvoll eingerichtetes, geräumiges und gepflegtes Haus, sehr sympathischer und hilfsbereiter Vermieter. Das Loire-Tal ist landschaftlich weniger ansprechend als gedacht, daher für die Lage nur vier Sterne.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

véronique R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Séjour à Chitenay

La maison est très confortable pour 4 personnes. Nous n'avons eu aucune mauvaise surprise. La cuisine est parfaitement équipée, le séjour est spacieux. La campagne environnante est agréable, très calme et les sites à visiter sont remarquables. Séjour parfait.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christophe C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Un magnifique séjour

Bonjour, Nous avons passé un excellent séjour ! La location était parfaite et très bien localiser car proche de beaucoup de châteaux. Les prestations sportives comprises sur le terrain de la maison ont été au delà de nos attentes. Merci
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Florian D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Parfait

Tout était vraiment niquel, aussi bien la maison que la piscine, les activités disponibles, aucun problème à remonter rien à redire nous avons passé des vacances idéales !
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

About the host

Hosted by Patrick

Host profile image
Retired Frenchman in his early sixties, based in the Washington DC area, former staff of an international organization based in the USA's capital city.
Very familiar with the Loire Valley area where part of his family (mother and grandmother side) were born and raised.

Why they chose this property

First: location. It is hard to find a better base for grand chateau hopping. But this is also a great place for relaxing and enjoying the French lifestyle at its best in a region that is famous for its 'art de vivre' (gardens, food & wine, etc.). Second: location: “La Ménagerie” sits in a exceptionally quiet and relaxing environment, immensely enjoyable for nature lovers! Walk-out from the house and follow the 300 Km of secure and well signaled bike paths and hiking trails throughout the chateau country. Third: location: “La Ménagerie” enjoys a secluded location, but it is not in the middle of nowhere: it belongs to the jurisdiction of Chitenay, a charming village with a boulangerie/grocery and a gourmet Auberge-Restaurant. Farmers markets, restaurants and supermarkets are countless in the neighboring localities such as Bracieux or Cour-Cheverny, Contres or Amboise, and even medium size cities such as the Royal city of Blois, being only 15 min. away by car. Best of all, the internet connection is wireless, fast and reliable! Fourth: Not only charming but also very comfortable! At “La Ménagerie”, charm does rhyme with comfort (see list of amenities). Fifth: It is ideal for family and reunions with friends. The cottage’s layout guarantees unforgettable moments all around. Sixth: kids (and young at heart) love it! In addition to the pool, pond and garden, they will love the amusement parks and children museums around the area: the Beauval Zoo that belongs to a very exclusive club of Panda zoos, the Titntin Museum or the House of Magic in Blois, The Chateau d’Ussé (also called the castle of the sleeping beauty), etc.

What makes this property unique

This property (main cottage, side cottage and barn) is typical of winemaker's houses in the region, with dormant windows sitting on the roof, local stones and tiles that become so bright at sunrise and colorful at sunset. In this cottage, charm does rime with comfort and it is elegant without being pretentious. There are interesting views of its stunning environment from every single window. When the sky is clear you see the shining stars through the skylights of the first floor and at day time hot air balloons ('Montgolfières') flying over the property. If you read the guests comments, you will actually better understand about many of the properties' unique features that have made their stay at ':La Ménagerie' a memorable time.

Languages:

English, French, Spanish