Chateau de Chassagne Montrachet
Our lodging for the next few days is the Chateau de Chassagne Montrachet. It’s not a hotel but a working winery with five guest suites to let. I had found this through http://www.burgundyeye.com and took a chance even though it wasn’t on Trip Advisor nor the Michelin Red Guide (it’s in their 2010 edition now).
When we booked our reservation, we were warned that we’d have to be self-sufficient as they do not have the amenities of a typical hotel such as room service or a 24 hour staff. It’s more of a deluxe bed and breakfast except that your hosts don’t live on the premises.
After checking in, we are led to one wing of the chateau where guests are housed. The entrance hall is flanked by two rooms. On the left is a billiard/game room; on the right, the salon.
The salon doubles as an art gallery featuring paintings for sale. I like that it’s not overly restored to the point that it’s brand-spanking-new but neither is it musty and packed with ancient creaky furniture. Overall, the space is elegant and refined while being light, airy and informal at the same time. Nothing seems too precious to touch.
With its 12-inch thick stone walls and exposed beams, the breakfast room seems more at home in a farmhouse than a chateau. The focal point is a fireplace with two sliding custom-forged metal panels shaped like giant bat wings.
Our room (or suite) is gorgeous, with a mix of country antique and understated modern furnishings. Best of all, it has an amazing view: grand cru vineyards as far as the eye can see.
The bathroom is equally impressive. The modern gothic fixtures are custom designed and fabricated by the same artist who did the fireplace. Warm teak floors offset cold metal, slate and stone.
Needless to say we’re bowled over. We can’t believe we have this place almost all to ourselves for the next few days. Despite the lack of wifi (their router does not work with Apple products), we love that we’re right smack in the middle of the vineyards along the Route de Grand Cru, yet only minutes away from a decent meal.
Previous: Burgundy, France – Prologue
Next: Dinner at Le Chassagne
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