Au Petit Thouars

When Guillaume and Alexandre embarked on the renovation of this (very) old building in 2019, their goal was to restore its historical foundations by removing the less appealing 1960s additions: goodbye cement, hello to beautiful stone flooring. They also reinstated the moldings that had disappeared over time, bringing them back to life on the ceilings. The work was so well done that it’s virtually invisible! The fireplaces were reopened to the delight of guests, perfect for when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The beautiful original parquet was preserved, and custom-aged stone tiles were made to blend seamlessly with the rest. “We restored the former splendor that had been compromised by previous renovations.” Indeed, at Au Petit Thouars, the charm of the old is paired perfectly with contemporary design pieces and art. The result? A stunning success, beyond expectations!

To furnish the interiors, they didn’t stick to the 18th century! “We’re not at all reasonable when it comes to decor; we indulge ourselves, and the result is very personal. We were worried it might be too much, but our guests love it.” A true experimental decor lab, the house is filled with vintage finds from the region, designer pieces, and artwork by their painter and photographer friends.

When it came to the walls, a compromise was made between the two: Guillaume loves bold colors, while Alexandre prefers white. The result? The living areas are bathed in white, while the bedrooms each embrace bold tones: one Italian-inspired with red and teal green walls, another cozy in olive green, a third blending pink and mauve with Art Deco influences, the fourth autumnal, and the fifth offering a modern twist on classic design.

Tucked away on a quaint street, Au Petit Thouars is the perfect base for exploring the medieval town’s rich history. Recognized as a “four-flower” town and a town of art and history, Thouars is sure to impress both casual visitors and history enthusiasts alike. Explore the majestic castle with its stunning gardens and panoramic views of the Thouet Valley, visit the Saint-Médard Church, and stroll or bike through nearby villages. Don’t forget to pack a 100% local picnic: goat cheese, rillons, rye bread, and for dessert, the famous flaon, a goat cheese cake.

For budding yogis, there’s another treat: Pauline Dupont Bischoff, a culinary journalist, regularly hosts yoga retreats at Au Petit Thouars. And don’t worry, there’s no fasting or ginger shots here—just well-deserved drinks after some relaxing stretches!

The cherry on top? Guillaume and Alexandre have created a “gifted treasure hunt” for guests, so you can leave with a unique souvenir from Thouars to remember your stay.