This Historic Mansion Now Ranks as the Top Hotel in France's Renowned Loire Valley

Château de Maubreuil, located in France’s Loire Valley near the Atlantic coast, is a grand 19th-century estate that spans 35 acres of lush, serene pastures. This Relais & Châteaux property, once a private home to a series of aristocrats and royals, has been transformed into one of France’s most exquisite boutique hotels. It offers 14 opulent suites and embodies the charm and elegance of a bygone European era. The surrounding region, renowned for its wine and picturesque countryside, provides a perfect backdrop for a truly luxurious getaway.

The hotel’s location in the Loire Valley offers guests an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and the culture of France’s Nantes countryside. The estate features an orchard, a citrus grove, a mandala vegetable garden, and vineyards, all of which are incorporated into the hotel’s immersive experience. The twin swimming pools are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering guests a chance to relax in a tranquil setting.

Château de Maubreuil’s storied history adds to its allure. Built in 1815, it has been home to many notable figures, including the inventor of the Dion-Bouton automobile, a marquis-turned-toymaker whose luxurious French cars and motorcycles became internationally renowned. Today, the estate retains a sense of opulence and legacy, while providing guests with modern amenities, such as electric Fiat Escapades and bikes for exploring the grounds and nearby waterways.

The hotel’s restaurant, La Table du Marquis, is another highlight. This Michelin-recognized dining establishment blends regional and global influences in its culinary offerings. The menu emphasizes seasonal herbs and vegetables, many of which are grown on the property. Guests can enjoy picnics in the hotel’s beautiful gardens or dine in the elegant restaurant, where each dish tells a story that connects local ingredients with global flavors. The five-course dinners, prepared by Chef Clément Vincent, feature dishes like yellow Pollack from the Loire, a fricassee of seasonal mushrooms, and a roast shoulder of lamb that is perfect for sharing. Desserts, such as The Grape, a sorbet with vine leaves and white wine, are a refreshing way to end the meal. Paired wine and cocktail options enhance the dining experience, which changes with the seasons.

The suites at Château de Maubreuil are a vision of classic elegance, furnished with antique finds from around the world. Each room is a reflection of a particular theme, such as the Venetian Room, the Japanese Suite, and the Burmese Nights room. Intricately patterned custom wall coverings and luxurious fabrics create a dramatic, cocoon-like atmosphere. The hotel’s décor is complemented by fine art and sculpture scattered throughout the property. A striking centerpiece in front of the hotel’s entrance is a skeletal frame from an old hot air balloon, which adds a modern touch to the otherwise historic surroundings.

For those seeking relaxation, the Spa Le Maubreuil offers a luxurious experience beneath the château. Located in a vaulted wine cellar, the spa’s treatments are designed to soothe and rejuvenate. Guests can indulge in massages, facials, and other beauty rituals that incorporate both local and holistic elements. The spa’s tiled pink treatment cabins and the sensory relaxation area create a serene environment for ultimate tranquility. The hotel’s spa boutique offers exclusive regional products not available anywhere else.

Château de Maubreuil’s location in the heart of France’s wine country means guests can take full advantage of the region’s renowned vineyards. The hotel offers tours to local wineries that produce some of the finest wines in the country, including Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé, and Sauvignon Blanc. A standout tour takes visitors to the historic village of Clisson, famous for its Muscadet wine, where they can enjoy a classic French country lunch as part of the experience. Other excursions include trips to the coastal towns of La Baule and Pornic, where fresh seafood is brought in daily from the ocean.

The Château is a proud member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux association, which celebrates 70 years of excellence in hospitality, gastronomy, and sustainability. Founded in 1954, Relais & Châteaux encompasses over 580 hotels and restaurants around the world, many of which are family-owned and operated. The association is known for its commitment to environmental sustainability and cultural preservation, ensuring that each property, including Château de Maubreuil, contributes to the conservation of both natural and architectural heritage.

Relais & Châteaux members are deeply committed to maintaining the traditions of fine living while embracing sustainable practices. The preservation of biodiversity, landscapes, and historical buildings is at the core of the association’s values, and Château de Maubreuil upholds these principles through its eco-conscious approach to luxury. From the design of the hotel and its gardens to the locally sourced ingredients used in the kitchen, every aspect of the property reflects a commitment to preserving the environment and the cultural legacy of the region.

In addition to its rich history and luxurious amenities, Château de Maubreuil offers a unique opportunity to experience the true art of living well in France. Whether dining at the Michelin-recognized La Table du Marquis, enjoying a relaxing spa treatment, or exploring the surrounding vineyards and villages, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of the Loire Valley. The hotel provides a perfect blend of history, elegance, and modern luxury, making it one of the finest destinations in the region.

With its exceptional service, breathtaking surroundings, and commitment to sustainability, Château de Maubreuil offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travelers seeking the very best of French luxury. As the Relais & Châteaux association continues to grow and evolve, Château de Maubreuil remains a shining example of the art of fine living, where every detail is thoughtfully crafted to provide an unforgettable experience.