Chateau de Gurat, France
Chateau de Gurat, Gurat, Charente
This is my idea of holiday heaven
No matter if you are on a family holiday with a baby, toddler or children you can rest in the knowledge that all bases are covered for you at Chateau de Gurat. And that is good to know when you are travelling with little ones, so that you don't have to overload your suitcase with unnecessary toys and baby kit. A full list of baby and toddler equipment is detailed on the owner's website but if you request something that is used regularly for babies and little ones they generally will have it.
The Child Friendly Gites/ Cottages
Luxury 2, 3 & 4 bed cottages set in beautiful gardens with lovely panoramic views over the Charente/Dordogne border can accommodate families from 4 to 8. All the gites have been carefully renovated to provide comfortable holiday accommodation whilst maintaining a sense of rural France (original oak beams & stonework). Fully equipped with a modern kitchen and each conveniently has its own washing machine and microwave. Together with your own sun terrace and barbecue, completes the picture - alfresco dining here we come! When you arrive you will find your beds made-up with luxurious Egyptian cotton bedding and a welcome hamper to greet you.
Child Friendly Facilities
As mentioned a huge stock of baby and toddler kit is available to borrow including cots with linen, high chairs and steriliser. To reserve the equipment all you need to do is request it when you book.
You will find the solar heated swimming pools (open mid April to end September) are the biggest draw with the kids on holiday. There is a separate children's paddling pool to compliment the main pool. The pools along with all the grounds are fenced and both entrances to Chateau de Gurat are gated.
There is plenty of space for the kids to go off play and make friends in the secure grounds so families will never feel on top of each other. With climbing frames, trampoline, swings, huge sand pit, Boules, Giant Connect 4, Giant Jenga, 5-a-side football pitch there never will be a dull moment.
The bergerie or indoor play barn hosts activities such as table tennis, table football, air hockey, a library of books, videos, lots of jigsaws and children's games.
Holiday Extras for Mum and Dad
It is nice to know that while on holiday you have the chance to take off chef's hat. Nicki thoughtfully provides wholesome cooked meals delivered direct to your door, ready to just pop in the oven. With dishes such as "Spiced Lamb with Coconut" and "Creamy Chicken Pie" you can understand why this is a popular service and ideal for arrival night.
A great sociable evening and a chance to mingle with fellow guests is the wine-tasting evening normally hosted on a Monday with a local wine merchant, giving you a chance to try many of the wines of the region and throughout France.
An English speaking therapist is available to ease those pre holiday tensions away.
Why not book an English speaking babysitter to look after your brood and have a night to yourselves sampling the local delicacies or just time out to enjoy an evening stroll around the local French villages?
Location and Things to do
Chateau de Gurat is set in 14 acres of stunning woodland and meadows and on the edge of the pretty village of Gurat. Just a short drive will bring you to Aubeterre, officially listed amongst France's most beautiful villages, which has a lovely river beach with grassed play area, cafe and restaurant. St Aulaye the same, but with water slides too! As well as nearby waterparks, local markets, and mountain bikes available to hire I think you can safely say there is something here for everyone.
Lasting Impression
Nicki and David have truly created a French holiday heaven ....a safe child friendly environment where kids can mingle, explore and play.....and a chance for parents to unwind, relax and enjoy.