Over and above the mildness of the climate, the deeply rooted traditions, the rich heritage of the surrounding area and the exceptional quality of the local produce, it was the château itself that first caught our eye. Since then, it has become the project of a lifetime: a passionate commitment that we hope to develop with the same high standards and respect as the beauty and history of the place.
Built on foundations dating back to the 14th century, the château has undergone several alterations over the centuries. Although certain architectural features, such as the dormers and corbels, were replaced in the 19th century, the building today retains the harmonious, balanced appearance typical of the 18th century, particularly in terms of the regular rhythm and number of its windows. The interior is equally remarkable for its refinement: a majestic Louis XV staircase leads to a succession of reception rooms, including a vast Regency-style drawing room with wainscoted panelling, an Empire-period ceremonial library - probably donated by Louis-Gabriel Suchet, Duke of Albufera - and an elegant Napoleon III-style music room accessible from the first-floor landing. Dominating the landscape at the far end of the bastide, the château watches over its terraced gardens, which will soon regain the elegance of their boxwood embroidery of yesteryear.
The château lies at the very heart of the English bastide town of Hastingues, founded in the 14th century. Originally, its keep-like structure was probably intended to echo the medieval gateway still visible at the other end of the town. A living testimony to the defensive architecture of the period, it played a full part in the strategic and symbolic organisation of the bastide.
The château does not offer TV and only has limited access to the internet in the large living room. This uniqueness contributes to the spirit of the place, inviting visitors to slow down and rediscover the simple pleasures of life: sharing a game of board games in the lounge, chatting in the shade of the trees by the pool, or sitting around the large garden table - which can seat up to twenty-five guests - to savour dishes prepared a la plancha, in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. A kitchen garden is currently being developed. It will soon offer our guests the pleasure of tasting seasonal vegetables and sun-kissed fruit from the local area.
An escapade in Béarn, from Sauveterre-de-Béarn with its Romanesque church offering a spectacular view of the Pyrenees, to Navarrenx, a magnificent town fortified by Vauban, with a lunch stop near the last remaining traditional cigar factory. A walk along the River Adour to Bayonne, a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage and the gateway to the Basque Country. The Basque hinterland through La Bastide-Clairence, Hasparren, Cambo-les-Bains and the Villa Arnaga - home of Edmond Rostand - before continuing on to Ainhoa, then Dantxarinea, for lunch on the Spanish border. Arthous Abbey, a 12th-century historic monument and a remarkable example of Romanesque art in Gascony. The village of Hastingues, with its unspoilt charm, comes alive with ‘Les Efferve'sens’ in June, the ‘Parade des Cinq Sens’ on 13 and 14 July, and the Historical Walk during the Heritage Days in September.
The estate can accommodate weddings, receptions, family parties or celebrations with friends, in a warm and refined atmosphere. Receptions can be held in the château's grand gallery and vestibule, or outdoors in the hectare of landscaped grounds. For cocktails and social gatherings, there are several areas to choose from: by the pool, in the French-style parkland, on the esplanade overlooking the bastide or on the terrace, the ideal setting for an intimate secular ceremony. On-site accommodation is available for 19 guests. Each reception is tailor-made, with particular attention paid to the harmony of the setting, the service and the quality of the amenities.
ref 969689
Concerts are organised every year, with an emphasis on chamber music, which lends itself admirably to the intimate salons of the château or, on certain occasions, to the village church. All events are offered against a donation, to enable everyone to open up freely to art and culture.
Exhibitions at the château vary from year to year, and always feature carefully selected artists of renown. All these events are offered against a donation, so that everyone is free to enjoy art and culture.
The château takes part in the «Rendez-vous aux jardins», an annual event launched by the French Ministry of Culture in 2003, which is held on the first weekend in June and focuses on a different theme each year.
Guided tour of the estate During Heritage Days, the castle offers exclusive guided tours inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its history and architecture.
This property has been added to My favourites
This property has been deleted from My favourites
A link to enter a new password has been sent to you by email.
back
