Château de Saint Paterne

I don’t usually bother writing reviews of tourism experiences but make an exception when the venue is extremely good or bad. In this case the tourism product is outstanding. Now, the Chateau is hundreds of years old so cut it some slack, it no doubt requires continual maintenance but Ségolène and her team make this hotel well worth visiting . We stayed for one night on our way back to the Cherbourg ferry and wished we had stayed 2 nights. If you are staying don’t miss the evening dinner which was superb. Our future visits to Northern France will include a visit here .

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…..

Absolutely wonderful staff, amazing property. Stayed in a quiet room with our family, having direct access to the gardens. Special mention also to the Chef de Cuisine: he created a beautiful dinner, which was enjoyed very much by our children as well. A truly unique hotel well worth visiting.

Stunning property The building is stunning. The room was great. The grounds are beautiful. The pool area is super relaxing. Dogs are welcome and there is enough space for them to roam free. Maybe annoying if you don’t like dogs! Continental breakfast is very good but is a bit overpriced at €18. That’s the only complaint. Overall it’s a magical place.

This is an outstanding place. All guests meet for a apero on the terrace or indoors if the weather doesn’t permit. Everyone dines together and it’s table dhote. You will not be disappointed. It’s a family run affair so don’t expect big brand or chain facilities. I would recommend without hesitation having visited four years consecutively

Highly recommended Fabulous chateau, dining on the lawn on a warm summer evening a highlight. Staff and owner superb, friendly & efficient.