Western Provence

Western Provence is known for its stunning natural landscapes, warm climate, excellent cuisine, historic towns and a rich cultural heritage.

Chateau de Montcaud

Situated in 12 acres of farmland, the Chateau was built in 1843 by silk merchant Alexandre Collain. Surrounded by the fertile vineyards and pretty hill-top villages of the unspoilt Cèze Valley, Chateau de Montcaud is both an opulent country hideaway and welcoming family home. Like many large estates, it fell into disrepair at one point, but new ownership in 2016 by a charming Swiss family, who live on site, and an extensive renovation have seen Collain’s legacy restored to its former glory.

With its sweeping central staircase, beautiful tiled floors and high frescoed ceilings adorned with antique chandeliers, the Chateau is undeniably grand. Yet the 29 rooms and suites are elegant in their simplicity with tall windows looking out over 12 acres of manicured gardens, complete with grotto, lake and ancient trees. There is also a heated swimming pool and a well-maintained tennis court. Twenty metres from the Chateau, the former stables (the Mas) have been converted into the stylish restaurant and light-filled meeting room - both on the ground floor and accessible.

For more information about Chateau de Montcaud and to see their photo gallery, please visit their website by clicking HERE. 

Excursions and Activities 

Stroll through the Chateau’s leafy grounds to find the hidden grotto or go exploring further afield - there are some wonderful walks on the doorstep. Take one of the hotel’s bikes (or e-bikes) and cycle along the Cèze River to the Sautadet waterfalls. Stop for a drink in one of the lovely local villages such as La Roque- sur-Cèze. A bit more pedalling could take you to charming Lussan, one of the ‘most beautiful villages’ in France. From its ramparts, breathtaking views stretch for miles in every direction.

The beautiful, bustling and historic town of Uzès (30 minutes drive) has some fabulous boutique shops as well as one of the best markets in Provence. Every Wednesday and Saturday, by the arches of its magnificent central square, Place-aux-Herbes, you’ll find smiling locals offering mouthwatering, regional produce. Cheeses, garlic, wine, flowers, lavender, olive oil...Provence’s most famous towns are within easy reach by car with superb historic sites to visit. These include Avignon’s Palais des Papes; Nîmes for some of the finest Roman monuments outside Italy; and Arles, where Vincent Van Gogh cut off his left ear. The spectacular Roman amphitheatres of Arles and Orange are well worth the trip alone.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard aqueduct is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. It remains the only example of a three-story antique bridge still standing. Built in the first century to carry water to Nîmes, you can cycle across it, kayak under it, or just gaze in wonder at its beauty. We will be organising two wonderful optional excursions and we will contact you nearer the time with full details.