Château d’Hannaches

The Château d’Hannaches, steeped in history, stands on the site of a fortress destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War. Reconstructed in 1480 by Georges Paléologue de Bissipat, a Byzantine noble who fled to France after the fall of Constantinople, the château reflects the legacy of its remarkable founder. A loyal servant to King Louis XI, Georges was granted the lordship of Hannaches in 1477 and brought his vision to life in this magnificent estate.

Now listed as a Historic Monument, the château showcases a unique blend of brick, wood, and Angers tiles. Intricate details, including symbols of waves, a heart, and a Star of David, adorn its exterior walls, telling a story of heritage and craftsmanship. Passed down through the builder’s family until 1621, it later came under the ownership of the Croÿ-Havré family and endured damage during World War I.

Following two decades of meticulous restoration by the previous owner, the current proprietor has embraced the château’s storied past by opening it for seasonal rentals. Guests can now immerse themselves in a piece of history while enjoying the comfort and charm of this unforgettable retreat.

For one year, the new owner and architect Arnaud Robert (responsible for project management) worked on renovating the property, with the goal of preserving its historical authenticity while introducing modern comforts. As for the interior design and layout, it’s a perfect blend of “country charm and contemporary refinement.”

The bedrooms are a prime example of the meticulous effort to combine comfort and aesthetics without compromising the ancient building’s character: beautiful Rubelli fabrics adorn the walls, the bedding (fit for a hotel) has been carefully selected, the Lin Perché linen is grown and woven in Normandy, and the organic beauty products come from La Chapelle Soapworks in Perche. “Each room is unique and exudes the cozy charm of a country house within the spectacular setting of Renaissance architecture.” The key words here are comfort, elegance, and understated luxury.

To fully embrace the château experience, guests can enjoy a variety of tailored services during their stay. From a hot air balloon ride that lifts off directly from the garden to chamber music concerts, yoga sessions, or horseback riding lessons at the nearby stud farm, there’s something for everyone. Or, guests can simply unwind in the wellness area, complete with outdoor Nordic baths.

When it comes to dining, every detail is thoughtfully considered. Menus are curated by chef and journalist Nathaly Ianiello—available for events, seminars, or when guests prefer not to cook—and feature guest chefs throughout the year, delighting diners with family-style, seasonal cuisine. For those who love to cook, a visit to the local market is a must, where they can fill their baskets with regional treasures like Neufchâtel cheese, Petits Suisses, and cider, or stop by one of the many nearby farms. Back at the château, these ingredients can be transformed into a feast in the beautifully equipped kitchen, complete with a monumental brick fireplace from the Pays de Bray and a nearly five-meter-long table handcrafted by a talented woodworker from the Perche. Living the high life!