THE CHÂTEAU
Boutique hotel with discreet luxury in Alpilles, in Provence
At the end of an path lined of hundred-year-old plane trees, you will discover all the charm and tranquility of a vast 19th century manor house. An old farmhouse renovated in "Mas du Cyprès" and two contemporary outbuildings cohabit with the Maison de Maître. The finely restored period decor and contemporary furniture combine to offer you all the comfort and luxury of a home that was once a popular resort for Romantics.
History
Of the place
Initially a farm («Mas de Gaillard») then later became a castle («Château des Alpilles»). The history of this property spans several centuries back as far as memory goes, legend has it that this rural land belonged to a 13th century knight. Although nothing certain can be found to confirm this myth, a cypress tree several hundred of years old attests to the fact that this particular domain dates, back to medieval times. Various families in succession inhabited the land.
Charles Gaillard inherited the domain in the seventeenth century, hence, no doubts, the ancient name «Mas de Gaillard». A hundred years later, it was the Blain Family’s turn to take possession of the land, with them, the phrase «la vie de château». (meaning castle life in all its splendour) took on full meaning. Indeed, towards 1825, Pierre-Paul Blain had an imposing manor house constructed close to the old Farmhouse, the «Mas», and surrounded by numerous species of trees, both regional and exotic, fountains ad later still, a chapel. The family resided there often and with the help of one of its members, Amédée Pichot, all of the top political and literary figures of figures of Paris – Guizot, Lamartine, Thiers … – were frequent, delighted visitors to the place.
However, over time, their fortunes dwindled and the castle fell somewhat into disrepair. Thus, by the time the Bon family took over in 1979, it was a dilapidated, Rip Van Winkle property slumbering in its verdant setting.
Utterly charmed by the house and park, with its rich and varied history, Francoise Bon and her daughter Catherine set about restoring and embellishing it … to become the magnificient «Château des Alpilles» offered up for your pleasure and enjoyment, today.
One Family
Since 1980
The story behind this home is the exciting adventure of the Bon family, who purchased this gentleman’s residence in 1979 with the idea of converting it into a gracious hotel, a «home from home» where guests could be made to feel like friends. Their daughter Catherine, a dispensing chemist, joined them in 1984.
The mother and daughter team set to decorating, renovationg and transforming the manor house, making sure to retain all aspects that contributed to its original charm and atmosphere. A lot of hard work and great fun that is very likely to continue for some time, with two delightful grand-daughters already training to carry on the family tradition. A beautiful women story, three generations who watch over this 5 stars confidential.
The Park
With centuries old trees and rare species
With a wide variety of specimen trees more than a hundred years old, the park contains regional favourites such as Magnolias alongside more exotic varieties like the palm tree or the rare ginkgo Biloba tree. Covering a total of seven hectares, the shady park with its beautiful fountains dotted here and there along the way, affords wonderful views in the summer months, should you wish to take a stroll. A heaven of peace where space and light take on their full meaning.