Château de Saint Paterne

We stopped off here en route to the Dordogne. The hotel itself is beautiful, just like being a house guest in a gorgeous chateau. The pool area is exceptional, with hot tub, lovely pool, sun loungers, sauna and honesty bar. Lovely grounds and terraces. Room was comfortable and quirky, authentic chateau style. Loved the relaxed feel, honesty bar etc. What let it down was the dinner, which we had high hopes for and were expecting a gourmet treat. Instead it was barely edible, a starter of beetroot “gazpacho”, which managed to be both lumpy and watery, woefully under seasoned and frankly odd. No-one on my table finished it. The main course was a chicken breast (mine was underdone), with roasted new potatoes (soggy) and creamy peas. Taste was pleasant but bland and I can cook something far better myself. Pudding was a few slices of micro thin pineapple and a tiny shot glass of frozen pina colada with a few pomegranate seeds, perfectly edible but not substantial or skilful. The cost of all this was €52. Breakfast cost €26 each and was not much more than some cereals, baguettes and bog standard mini croissants. The whole overnight stay for 2 adults and 2 teens sharing a bedroom suite (sofa bed) was over €700, we loved the place but the food was truly below what we should have got for that price. Maybe chef was having an off day…..

Great spot and facilities

A privilege to share a family home for a few days This is a beautiful family home in naturally cultivated garden and grounds. We stayed in the Mystere suite which might be difficult to access for some guests as you have to climb a 52 step stone spiral staircase. Once up in the room we enjoyed home comforts but found the lack of aircon in such an exceptionally hot period made night sleep a little uncomfortable. That said there was a large fan which definitely helped. Highlights for us was the aperitifs folllwed by dinner at 8 - a set menu of absolutely fantastic foods prepared on site with fresh ingredients. We had stayed in several similar places previous to arriving at the Chateau and the meals far exceeded any expectation. Definitely a recommendation for visitors who want a unique French experience.

Quirky hotel It wasn’t made apparent that there was a restaurant with a la carte prior to arriving. So everyone has to sit down together with a set meal and you have to advise several hours before if you would like dinner. There is no other option. We only wanted a light supper but that wasn’t an option.