In the Spotlight: Château Capitoul
May 03, 2024
Written by Lotte
May 03, 2024
Written by Lotte
In this section, the team at House of Hideaways shines a spotlight on a gem of a hotel every month. Whether it's the location, the interior design, welcoming hosts, or the facilities, all these hotels have something extra special that we love to share with you. After all, discovering the most beautiful places is what it's all about, isn't it? This month, we shine the spotlight on the charming castle hotel, Château Capitoul, a unique retreat nestled amidst vineyards and amidst pristine nature.
Holidaying on a French wine estate? In Occitanië, atop a hill, you'll discover the magnificent Château Capitoul, where you can reside in luxurious hotel rooms or self-catering villas with private pools. Just under 3 kilometers away lie golden beaches and azure seas, while the 19th-century chateau itself is enveloped by a 245-hectare estate amidst nature. Château Capitoul offers the best of both worlds: the amenities of a luxury hotel and the privacy of a vacation rental, the authenticity and charm of bygone eras, and the laid-back yet professional service of the on-site team. Families with children will find ample entertainment here, as will wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs of culinary delights.
Château Capitoul offers the best of both worlds: the facilities of a luxury hotel and the privacy of a holiday home
One of the greatest advantages of staying at Château Capitoul is its fantastic cuisine and excellent wines. While staying in a private villa offers the opportunity for self-catering, those desiring to be pampered for an evening can indulge in one of the two restaurants. Within the castle itself lies Méditerranéo, the fine dining restaurant, while nestled in the courtyard, alongside the winery and shop, is the vibrant brasserie Asado, with its spectacular terrace. Both restaurants serve house-made Grand Cru wines, an icon in the region. Méditerranéo is an intimate gastronomic establishment located in the chateau's original dining room. Through its six bay windows, diners gaze out upon the lagoon. Chef Valère Diochet takes advantage of the vast array of local products to create delicious, flavorful dishes with a distinct Mediterranean flair and rustic yet elegant elements. With only 30 seats available, reservations are a must! Brasserie Asado takes its name from the wood-fired grills and ovens that form the heart of the restaurant. Here, local fish and regional meats are charred over vine wood and charcoal, accompanied by fresh seasonal salads and vegetables. The spacious interior boasts a theatrical layout, while outside, a large sheltered terrace offers dining and lounging areas to savor the views on balmy spring and long summer evenings.
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In the cool cellars of the castle lies an inviting spa and wellness area, a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation where joie de vivre triumphs over rules and stress. Here, you'll discover a heated indoor pool, jacuzzi, aromatherapy sauna, and hammam, offering a variety of exquisite Cinq Mondes treatments. Crafted by renowned perfumers, the products of Cinq Mondes Spa Paris feature unique textures and fragrances designed to take you on a sensory journey to complete relaxation. They are natural and organic, free from parabens, silicones, mineral oils, and artificial colors. In the Balneum, where the pool, sauna, and hammam are located, tall glass sliding doors provide a tranquil view of the soothing pine forest. Trust us, after a visit to this serene environment, you'll feel rejuvenated!
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The castle gardens are also a tranquil oasis, where you can admire a variety of local and exotic flora. Designed by landscape designer James Basson, a four-time Chelsea Gold winner, in collaboration with the legendary botanist Olivier Filippi, the gardens of Château Capitoul showcase over 100 plant species, including oaks and Aleppo pines, interspersed with fragrant varieties such as lavender and rosemary. Comfortable loungers with small terraces offer stunning views of the lagoon and the many flamingos. As the first rays of sunlight appear, step into the garden, find a cozy spot, and wrap yourself in a soft blanket. Breathe, relax, and start the day in ultimate tranquility.
Of course, you could spend days within the chateau and its estate, but the surrounding area is worth exploring too. Whether you're here with your significant other or the whole family, there's something for everyone. Take a drive towards the coast, where you'll find expansive sandy beaches or pay a visit to the charming city of Narbonne. Tip: if you're a parent in need of some relaxation, there are kids' clubs and babysitting services available, allowing you to have some alone time.
Here are a few recommendations for you:
1. Explore the fishing village of Gruissan
Gruissan is now known as one of the most delightful seaside resorts on the Mediterranean. Originally a picturesque fishing village, it boasts a variety of fine restaurants serving the best seafood dishes. Wander through narrow streets and unwind on a cozy terrace with a refreshing drink. The medieval Barbarossa tower atop the hill is also worth a visit and highly recommended for families with children. Looking for a spot for an aperitif and dinner? Mamamouchi offers a stunning terrace view overlooking the 'Pond of Mateille', a perfect spot for windsurfers.
2. Hike or bike in La Clape
Adjacent to Château Capitoul lies La Clape, a protected natural area of 37,000 hectares crisscrossed with hiking and biking trails. Enjoy numerous breathtaking viewpoints with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding countryside. Pack a picnic basket or backpack with delicious treats and settle down for a well-deserved lunch at your favorite spot.
3. Take a dip in the azure blue sea
The golden beaches of the Mediterranean Sea are just minutes away from the hotel. You can even reach them with a comfortable bike ride through the lagoon. There are various spots to choose from, ranging from quiet beaches to lively ones with sun loungers and beach bars. If you're up for a short drive, the beach of Sérignan, south of Béziers, comes highly recommended. This lovely beach is popular with families and features pop-up beach clubs where you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas and enjoy snacks and drinks. On weekends, DJs often spin tunes or you can groove to the music of a live band in the evenings.
4. Stroll through the lively city of Narbonne
Just a ten-minute drive away lies the lively Narbonne. Wander through its narrow streets and along the Canal du Robine, where you'll find plenty of charming cafes with terraces to enjoy a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Don't miss the bustling covered market Les Halles, with its array of fresh produce, flowers, and wine spread across 70 stalls. The impressive 13th-century cathedral, the Cathédrale Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur, is a must-visit. Next to the cathedral, you'll find the Archbishop's Palace, including the Museum of Art and History and the Archaeological Museum.
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