bed & breakfast in a vine-growing region near auxerre

Why did you settle in this region, in this place and not elsewhere ?

In 1996, we were looking for a holiday home in France. At the time, we still lived in the Netherlands, so we did not want to be too far from a big city – half a day's drive at the most. So, on a beautiful autumn morning, we fell under the spell of La Borde and our lives were changed forever. The space, the breath-taking views, the tranquillity and the 16th century architecture were all that was needed to enchant us.

What specific architectural features does your building have ?

The tiled buildings (typical of the Puisaye region) are built on an old motte from the 14th century. The only remaining part of the chateau now serves as a guest suite and we use the former kitchen in basement as a wine cellar. Fortunately, two towers have stayed intact (one of which houses a dovecote with one hundred and forty putlogs) along with the 16th century farmhouse.

What is its history ?

Jean de La Rivière (1363), from an old Nivers region family, is thought to be the Château de La Borde’s first owner. With its location and architecture, this stately home must have had plenty of character. It originally consisted of four round towers (one of which was a dovecote) with tiled rooves that enclosed the courtyard on three sides; the entrance to the courtyard looked towards the village of Leugny in the east. The main building, which stood in front of the western towers, had an extensive view of the Ouanne valley on the other side. This old feudal fortress surrounded by a moat was then replaced by the current 16th century chateau, though traces of the fortress remain. The La Buissière name first appears in Leugny in 1582, the lords became the owners of the Château de La Borde on May 20, 1767. Edme Pierre de La Buissiere had neither wife nor heir; ruined and driven out by the revolution, he was forced to sell or abandon his lands in 1792. The castle was then burnt in the years that followed.

What can you offer people staying with you ?

With a "five-star" spirit, La Borde sets itself apart from other guesthouses. It does not, however, strive for a flashy atmosphere, but rather an understated chicness. We, along with our team, take a warm and considerate approach to our work. Thanks to the park awarded with the ‘Outstanding garden’ label, the various lounges with fireplaces, the wellness centre (hammam, sauna, jacuzzi, fitness room, massothermie), the tennis court and the in-house restaurant, we offer a change of scene and a chance to rejuvenate.