French Chateaux

This study offers a view into the privileged world that lies within France's grand historical houses. It is a view hitherto afforded only to a selected circle of the French aristocracy and their friends.

Providing intimate insight into life in a French château, this volume takes readers on an insider’s tour of the Château du Lude, a private residence that features its original decorative interiors. Nestled in the idyllic Loire Valley, the Château du Lude is one of the most historic châteaus in France; Bluebeard besieged the castle on his way to join Joan of Arc’s crusade, and it earned the rare distinction of having survived the French Revolution intact. Today, the Lude is inhabited and impeccably maintained by the Count and Countess Louis-Jean de Nicolay, whose family has owned the property for over 250 years. They invite readers to discover the château’s well-preserved interiors and gardens, which feature a medieval kitchen, an Italian Renaissance studiolo, and exceptional horse stables, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the château’s inhabitants, past and present. Newly commissioned photographs offer unprecedented access into the hidden corners of the estate otherwise closed to the general public.

In a busy modern life, meals are often relegated to five- or ten-minute time slots. The French have long been lauded as culinary experts, and the emphasis they place on time spent around the dinner table is yet another secret worth borrowing. Living la vie de château at Château Bosgouet in Normandy, Jane Webster and her Australian family have embraced the traditions of the French table with surprise and delight at each turn, from navigating the market to setting the table to making the most of a vegetable garden, and their adventures are captured here by the sophisticated eye of photographer Robyn Lea.

An exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the stunning estates of France’s most prestigious and long-standing vineyards. Hennessy, Moët & Chandon, Dom Pérignon, Mercier, Krug, Ruinart, Veuve Clicquot, Château d’Yquem, and Cheval Blanc: across the world these names are synonymous with prestige, secrets passed down from generation to generation, and the inimitable genius of French wine production. These producers, who together comprise the Moët Hennessy group, weren’t satisfied with simply striving to make the best Cognac, Champagne, Sauternes, or Saint-Emilion. Since they were founded, each has been dedicated to cultivating an environment in which these exceptional French products can be fully appreciated. And so, in order to entertain in style, these legendary institutions have constructed elegant estates. Guests savor meals that have been composed to subtly complement and ultimately intensify the experience of tasting the sought-after libations. Stunning countryside surroundings, beautiful interior design, a friendly atmosphere, and often contemporary art all play a role in entertaining guests; many eminent designers and architects have contributed to these exquisite locales. This volume is an invitation to discover the magic of these beautiful retreats, and the institutions behind them.

Covering more than forty properties scattered throughout France, a lavish volume captures their diverse architecture; rich interiors; priceless furniture, paintings, and sculpture collections; and fabulous gardens in all their glory.

Sam and Bud intended to move to France and create a simple life with their children. However they bought a 17th century chateau with over thirty rooms. With modest savings, they restored the building and started a bed and breakfast against resistance from the locals. This is a glimpse into what it takes to leave everything behind to pursue a dream.

Provides a richly illustrated tour of the homes and lifestyles of nineteenomes throughout the Napa and Sonoma valleys, capturing a sophisticated,racious style of living that reflects the old world styles of Italy, France,nd South America in such locales as Villa Pietra, Quintessa Winery, Far N