Château Catherine de Montgolfier

Presentation

Imagine the song of cicadas blending with the gentle rustling of vine leaves under the sea breeze. Here, bathed in the golden light unique to the south of France, lies a singular experience where time seems to stand still. The atmosphere breathes Provence and Languedoc, a subtle alliance between the rugged land of the garrigues and the Mediterranean art of living that so perfectly characterizes this corner of Occitania.

Château Catherine de Montgolfier is not just a stopover; it’s a story of passion told through its walls and landscapes. Even before being a holiday destination, it is the fruit of a human adventure led by Christophe Chamouleau de Montgolfier and his brothers. Heirs to a long lineage of winegrowers, they united the terroirs of Ardèche and Charentes to write a new chapter in winemaking here, in these preserved surroundings.

As you stroll through the estate, you will feel this family heritage. The love for the land and the vine shines through every detail of this 22-hectare property. The vines, cultivated organically, stretch as far as the eye can see, bordered by fragrant pine forests and wooded hills that provide a protective sense of isolation, far from urban hustle and yet deeply connected to the surrounding nature.

The establishment offers an immersion into the world of wine without imposing it. If curiosity strikes, you can discover the production behind the scenes, including the innovative aging cellar where the Beaune Eggs, these ovoid concrete tanks, allow the wines to breathe differently. It’s a rare opportunity to engage with owners who do not merely hand you the keys but willingly share their expertise and their future grand cru vintages.

Your time on the premises begins with serenity. The accommodations, whether cottages or guest rooms, are designed to offer total privacy. Each space has its own personality, showcasing themes that evoke the nuances of the south. Elegance here is understated, residing in the choice of materials and the harmony of colors that soothe the mind as soon as you cross the threshold.

The ground-floor rooms, named La Rose, La Vague, or L'Horizon, offer a major privilege: direct access to the outdoors and the pool. It’s an invitation to live barefoot, moving from the coolness of your sheets to the warmth of your private terrace without any constraints. For those who prefer a more discreet retreat, the rooms La Perle and L'Escapade, nestled in the main lodge, ensure absolute tranquility and breathtaking views of the estate.

Modern comfort has not been sacrificed in favor of authenticity. In your room, you will find everything necessary for appreciated independence, including a small refrigerator and a microwave. These discreet amenities allow you to set your own pace, perhaps to enjoy a snack on your private terrace in the evening, under a starry sky unique to the countryside.

Mornings at Château Catherine de Montgolfier begin with a gourmet ritual. Breakfast, included in your stay, is served in a dedicated room or on the adjoining terrace when the weather permits. It’s the perfect time to plan your day while savoring quality products, in a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation if you wish, or silent contemplation of the awakening garden.

During the hottest hours, the swimming lane becomes the focal point of the estate. Open from April's warm arrival through October's mild days, this pool invites both athletic performance and pure relaxation. The water promises refreshment after a vineyard walk, and the landscaped surroundings allow you to indulge in leisure with a good book, lulled by the calm of the place.

The estate is not limited to accommodation and wine; it’s a living place where culture finds its home. Artistic exhibitions regularly adorn the walls or gardens, adding a contemporary aesthetic touch to the rural setting. This sensitivity to the art of living translates into a welcoming atmosphere, where every space feels designed to foster well-being and inspiration.

The Château's geographical location is a major asset for nature lovers. You are at the heart of the Regional Natural Park, on the former island massif of La Clape. This unique territory, a former Roman island now connected to the mainland, offers fascinating geological landscapes. An on-site fitness trail allows you to stay active while breathing in the fresh air of the pine forests, without even leaving the property.

As soon as you step beyond the estate’s boundaries, a range of discoveries awaits. Narbonne, a city of art and history, beckons you for a rich cultural exploration. One of the highlights is undoubtedly the Archbishops' Palace and the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur Cathedral, an unfinished Gothic structure that dominates the city with its majesty and offers a stunning panorama from its keep.

For ancient history enthusiasts, the Narbo Via Museum is a must-visit. This modern building, designed by architect Norman Foster, houses an exceptional collection of Roman artifacts, testifying to the city’s past grandeur as the first Roman colony outside Italy. The remarkable scenography allows for an understanding of the region’s strategic importance during the imperial era.

If your desires lean toward the great outdoors, the immediate surroundings are full of hiking trails. The Massif de la Clape is crisscrossed with paths offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t miss the Gouffre de l’Œil Doux, an impressive geological curiosity – an emerald green lake nestled between high limestone cliffs, accessible after an easy walk through the garrigue.

The call of the sea is also close by. The village of Gruissan, with its pink-hued salt flats and stilt houses made famous by cinema, offers an authentic and preserved seaside atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for an evening stroll, to observe flamingos, or simply to walk along the water on the Chalets Beach, a vast stretch of fine sand.

A leisurely walk along the Canal de la Robine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will allow you to experience Narbonne’s gentle way of life. Whether on foot or by renting a small electric boat, gliding along these tranquil waters bordered by century-old plane trees is a soothing way to end your excursions before returning to the protective calm of your room.

Every return to the estate feels like an affirmation – the realization of having found a refuge where luxury lies in space and silence. Château Catherine de Montgolfier does not seek to dazzle with artifices but to win you over with the precision of its hospitality and the beauty of its terroir. It’s an address you leave with the certainty of having touched, for a few days, the very essence of the Languedoc art of living.

Some activities and discoveries near this guest house

• Enjoy the Mediterranean beaches, just five kilometers away, including Narbonne-Plage and the preserved coastline of Gruissan.
• Hike or bike through the trails of the Massif de la Clape, exploring the flora and fauna of the Narbonnaise Regional Natural Park.
• Visit Narbonne, a two-thousand-year-old city, to discover the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur Cathedral and the remarkable Narbo Via Museum dedicated to Roman civilization.
• Venture to the village of Gruissan to admire its Barbarossa Tower and the unique stilt houses by the water.
• Participate in a wine tasting at the estate to discover the organic vintages of the La Clape appellation, produced by the family.
• Stroll along the UNESCO-listed Canal de la Robine for a peaceful break in the heart of Narbonne.
• Discover the incredible natural site of the Gouffre de l’Œil Doux, a limestone cliff surrounding an emerald green pond.

Summary of some positive reviews found online

• The owners' hospitality is exceptional; you immediately feel at home thanks to their kindness and availability.
• The setting is absolutely stunning, right in the middle of the vineyards, offering total calm and serenity for a true rejuvenation.
• We particularly appreciated the quality of the rooms, spacious and tastefully decorated, and the bedding is very comfortable.
• The pool and swimming lane are perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing or hiking in La Clape.
• The breakfast is hearty, made up of fresh and local products, an excellent way to start the day on the terrace.
• The opportunity to visit the cellar and taste the estate’s wine is a real bonus that enriches the stay experience.
• The location is ideal, a haven of peace in the countryside while being very close to the beaches and Narbonne's historic center.

Services

Other services

Activities

• Walking tours
• Tour or class about local culture
• Live music/Performances

General

• Parking
• Free parking
• Parking on site
• Wi-Fi available everywhere

Services

• Internet
• Wi-Fi
• Free Wi-Fi

Dining

• Wine/Champagne

Pool and wellness area

• Outdoor pool
• Outdoor pool (seasonal)
• Heated pool
• Sun loungers or beach chairs
• Sun umbrellas
• Swimming pool
• Pool

Shared spaces

• Garden
• Terrace
• Sun terrace
• Outdoor furniture
• Picnic area

Miscellaneous

• Non-smoking rooms
• Family rooms
• Heating
• Entirely non-smoking property
• Air conditioning
• Smoking area

Route de Narbonne-Plage (Sortie 37, direction Narbonne Plage), 11100 Narbonne

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