Hotel review: Chateau de la Redorte, Languedoc, France
Looking for an affordable family-friendly holiday in the South of France? Call off the search, because we've found it for you.
The Chateau de la Redorte is situated in the heart of the Languedoc in a charming village on the Canal du Midi, and only half an hour from the Mediterranean.
It offers villas with private pools as well as suites in the impressive 18th century chateau itself. What are you waiting for? Discover more in our review below.
See also: Hotel review: Chateau Saint Pierre de Serjac
See also: Hotel review: Chateau les Carrasses, Languedoc, France
First impressions
A stunning 18th chateau recently restored to its former glory, standing majestically in the middle of the pretty village of La Redorte.
What's to love?
As soon as you arrive at the hotel you're immediately met by the fabulous pool, flanked by olive and pine trees with the chateau as a resplendent back drop. The Vineyard Spa is small but perfectly formed and offers pampering massage treatments, as well as a jacuzzi and relaxation room. There's beautiful artwork in the main reception and the building oozes all the glamour of a traditional French chateau.
Best rooms in the house
We stayed in a three-bedroom pool villa which, at €399 per night in high season, we thought was great value, especially if you are sharing with other couples. The villas are modern and tastefully decorated with items from local brocantes. The pool was a good size and well-kept and the bedroom and living room had direct access onto the patio, ideal for long lunches and a bottle (or two) of rosé. The villas run alongside the main pool and are separate from the main chateau, which also offers great classic bedrooms and suites.
Eating and drinking
Do not miss the fresh pain au chocolate and croissants coming straight out of the oven at around 8.30am every day for breakfast in the main restaurant. There's a pretty terrace for al fresco dining, and we enjoyed a fabulous dinner here, with fresh Mediterranean fare and tastebud-tingling wine from the surrounding Minervois vineyards.
Top tip?
The hotel is situated right in the middle of the village, which is excellent for convenience of amenities and exploring. However, it also means it's right next to the main road, and it's possible to hear the traffic from the main pool and villas. We found it did not particularly affect us, but is something to be aware of.
This place is perfect if you...
Are a family wanting an affordable yet good-quality week in France. The two-bedroom pool villas are fantastic value for a lovely Languedoc getaway. The Mediterranean is a half-hour drive, but when you've got a gorgeous pool in the back yard, who needs the beach? We travelled as a couple without children, and found it was perfect for a romantic retreat, too, thanks to the spa, restaurant, and privacy of our villa with private pool. Wine buffs will also enjoy the 'wine tunnel' that connects the property to the estate's vines, and also plays host to a wine-tasting cellar-bar. Cheers!
Explore
The chateau is located in the charming village of La Redorte, which sits prettily on the Canal du Midi. Pull up a pew and sip rosé by the waterside while also drinking in the views. The stunning castle at Carcassonne is just 30km away and is a must-visit while you're in the area, being home to a myriad of cafes, bars and shops, as well as the fabulous historical ruins. For another fabulous afternoon out, head to the wonderful clifftop village of Minerve - named as one of the 'most beautiful villages of France' - where you can enjoy lunch (we had the rustic octopus dish) cooked on an open grill with views over the valley below.
I want to go!
Prices start from €119 for a classic chateau suite in low season and €179 in high season. Breakfast is €14 per person. Visit chateau-redorte.com for more information.
See more of the château in our gallery of pictures below:
