Fairytale chateau in Pays de la Loire, France

Mentioned in the Times top 20 chateaux 2016, the fairytale Chateau de la Motte Henry is a spectacular neo-Renaissance Castle with beautiful outbuildings nestled in the Western Loire Valley, a region known for its beauty, tranquility and cuisine. The property is an ancient motte surrounded by a moat within 29 acres of parkland, paths and fields with exotic trees such a cedars of Lebanon & American redwood. There is also a private lake for swimming or boating. There is also a 3 bed gite. We have recently upgraded the facilities to include a 25m swimming pool, well-equipped gym and 1.3km running trail. We have a management couple on site to assist you with anything during your stay. The basement of the chateau is off-limits to guests at all times. There are various outbuildings that are also off limits for safety reasons. The management couple will be available during your stay at the chateau to assist with any queries you may have. They will not be intrusive and you will be able to enjoy all the facilities without interference, unless you specifically request assistance. The area is known as the Garden of France. it is beautiful. There are medieval hilltop towns, caves and plenty of activities all within easy reach (although being France, a car is advisable!). The local town, Meslay du Maine, is only 2km away and has bars, restaurants and supermarket. Laval, the nearest city, is about 20 minutes away and is well worth a visit. There are local markets also. Easy to access from UK by ferry (St Malo, Caen or Le Havre), train (to Laval or Sable sur Sarthe), plane to Rennes or Nantes. Once at the chateau our guests rarely leave, but hiring or bringing a car would be advisable if you wish to explore the surrounding areas. There are great cycling and walking routes and we are not far from the Mayenne towpath, which runs for 80+ km and is ideal for cycling, running, walking or horse-riding. There are lots of local actives and information can be given on request. Examples are canoeing, horse-riding, high ropes, laser quest, water park, local leisure lake, fishing, and tourist attractions such as caves and Roman towns.