In the tranquil landscapes around St-Omer, just a short 40-minute drive from Calais, you’ll find a rare sight indeed – the ‘Marais Audomarois’ wetlands, a unique, greener-than-green hideaway paradise where market-gardeners work the land on floating gardens. Perhaps the last thing you’d expect to find here, peeping out of a secluded wooded spot is this enchanting château-hôtel near St-Omer, grand and Flemish in style and every bit as inviting as you’d imagine a French château holiday could be. The heart beats faster from the moment you step through the grand and gated entrance, passing stunning sculptures as you approach the enchanting 19th century residence. Once inside, elegant French style oozes from every corner ─ period furniture, high ceilings, classic Toile de Jouy fabrics ─ and then of course there’s your room overlooking the grounds, a little piece of paradise to gaze upon whilst you savour the complimentary champagne and melt-in-the-mouth French macarons. A luxury indoor pool completes the blissful picture.
Getting dressed up for dinner is all part and parcel of the foodie experience, so make the most of your luxury room before making your way to ‘Le Vert Mesnil’ restaurant with its delightfully contemporary decor in the château’s converted stables. It’s not hard to find either: just close your eyes and be led by the sweet smell of delicious meats roasting away on the open fire. Or might your tastebuds be tickled by a fish stew of pollock with cockles and citrus-zest mash? Whatever you choose, rest-assured it’s all good… it’s in the Michelin guide after all!
When morning comes, there’s another romantic pleasure to take your time over, and that’s breakfast together, either enjoyed in your room (who wouldn’t want to make the most of the luxury a little longer?) or on the sunny terrace. Then, grab a robe to kick-start your day with a few lengths at the luxury pool (enjoy the view while you’re at it!), before lounging poolside to plan the day ahead. Here in this pocket of Northern France you’re spoilt for choice with the Deux-Caps cliffs, picture-postcard Arras, glamorous Le Touquet and the WW1 remembrance trail all within easy reach of your French château base.
The absolute must during your stay at this château-hotel near St-Omer is the famous UNESCO-listed ‘Marais Audomarois’ – Northern France’s peaceful haven of wetlands and floating gardens only 6km away. Opt for serene, romantic walks or a slow-boat meander – there’s even the option of e-bike hire or a trip in an iconic 2CV, complete with expert guide. Visit La Coupole, only 5km from St-Omer, a huge bunker where V2 rockets were mass produced by deportees to be launched against London during the WW2. Escape from it all at the nearby Clairmarais forest, book a round at St Omer’s golf club or simply indulge in some local specialities ─ St-Omer camembert and Genièvre de Houlle gin amongst the finest. A toast to the nearest and best French château holiday? Chin-chin!
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