In the lavishly restored Château des Tesnières, South African chef Chantel Dartnall has brought to life an ambitious project combining fine dining and charming accommodation. The wine cellar, packed with wines from around the world, with a particular focus on South Africa, is impressive.
Guide Michelin, October 2025Hotel & Lodge Awards 2026
A selected jury nominate the 100 most beautiful hotels in the world spread over 9 categories.
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Hotels Own Introduction
A Historic Château in the French Countryside
Set within 15 acres of beautiful wooded parkland, Château des Tesnières is an enchanting Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance château dating back to 1860. Commissioned by Count Ferdinand de Langle and his brother Alphonse, the historic residence combines romantic architecture with the tranquillity of the surrounding French countryside, creating an idyllic setting for an intimate escape.
The Château
Steeped in history and character, Château des Tesnières offers a rare opportunity to experience the grandeur of a private 19th-century estate. Its elegant architecture, distinctive period details, and peaceful surroundings create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and deeply personal. Today, the château is being lovingly reimagined as a destination for guests from France, South Africa, and beyond, while preserving the spirit and heritage of this remarkable property.
The Gardens
The beauty of Château des Tesnières extends well beyond its historic walls. Sprawling across 15 acres, the gardens and wooded grounds unfold as a peaceful landscape of mature trees, open lawns, and secluded corners. Designed as an integral part of the château experience, they invite guests to wander, pause, and reconnect with the natural beauty of the estate.
Culinary Experience
The château is the home of Chef Chantel Dartnall and her family, bringing an exceptional culinary pedigree to this historic setting. Former founder and head chef of Restaurant Mosaic at The Orient for 15 years, Chef Chantel moved to France in 2021 and now serves as chef-owner and director of Château des Tesnières. Her cuisine brings together her South African heritage, French surroundings, and a deep respect for exceptional ingredients, creating a distinctive gastronomic experience rooted in both place and season.
The Château des Tesnières Experience
Combining historic architecture, expansive gardens, refined gastronomy, and the quiet beauty of rural France, Château des Tesnières offers an evocative escape far from the ordinary. Here, the grandeur of the château is matched by the intimacy of its surroundings, creating a destination where heritage, nature, and culinary excellence come together.
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