In the Eure Valley, the ultimate bucolic escape crafted by the duo behind the Sensible Paris interior design studio. A stylish and colorful country house accommodating four guests.
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Villiers-en-Désœuvre
La Commanderie de Chanu
A 15th-century stone manor nestled in the Norman countryside
Make a booking request
In Normandy, a 15th-century stone building and its 12th-century chapel, both listed as Historic Monuments, have been transformed into a countryside retreat—perfect for a getaway with six to eight adults and two or three children.
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Villiers-en-Désœuvre
La Commanderie de Chanu
A 15th-century stone manor nestled in the Norman countryside
Make a booking request
In Normandy, a 15th-century stone building and a 12th-century chapel have been transformed into a contemporary country house, perfect for an escape to the countryside for eight adults and three children.
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A 15th-century stone manor nestled in the Norman countryside
Make a booking request
"The garden is delightful, especially in summer when the orchard bears fruit. It's a peaceful, soothing place."
On the edge of the Norman bocage, near the Vexin Français Regional Nature Park, lies the picturesque village of Villiers-en-Désœuvre, home to a remarkable 15th-century estate. With its stone walls, half-timbering, tiled roofs, and a 12th-century chapel, the property is rich in history with a capital H! Fully renovated in 2023, La Commanderie de Chanu has been reimagined as a spacious and welcoming country retreat for eight adults and three children. Spend your days exploring the forest or meandering through the three-hectare park, then unwind with cozy evenings in the large living-room, drink in hand.
Inside, you’ll find contemporary furnishings and top-of-the-line amenities—a harmonious blend of styles that will delight lovers of historic charm and modern comfort. Just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Paris, this idyllic countryside escape is perfect for family gatherings, getaways with friends, and reunions.
Five centuries
of history
Nestled within a three-hectare estate, nature surrounds La Commanderie on all sides.
History enthusiasts will love the story behind La Commanderie de Chanu! In the 1150s, the Knights Templar settled in the hamlet of Chanu and established the “House of Chanu,” which housed Brother Knights, a Commander, and lay brothers who worked the land. The Commandery’s economy—centered on grain cultivation, livestock, and winemaking—supported the protection of pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land, the Crusades, and the growth of the Order.
Today, the only structure remaining from that time is the Chapel, whose simple yet striking design reflects Cistercian architecture. Remarkably well-preserved, it is still used for events, including dinners. The rest of the estate was built later, around 1500. As you explore the interiors and grounds, traces of its storied past are everywhere: the column capitals with motifs inspired by the Middle East, two tombs in the choir, and the small corner tower… At La Commanderie, nature and history come together beautifully.
The children's bedroom, with its stone walls, exposed beams, and large windows overlooking the chapel and garden.
The Renaissance
of La Commanderie de Chanu
When the current owners acquired La Commanderie de Chanu in 2022, they set out to revitalize this historic property while preserving as much of its original materials and foundations as possible. The kitchen underwent a complete renovation and is now fully equipped, as are the three bathrooms.
The interior decor, however, is a departure from the Templar style. Contemporary, minimalist furnishings and colorful fabrics were chosen to keep the spaces simple, allowing the original features—thick stone walls, wooden beams, and vintage parquet floors—to take center stage. The result? A perfect balance of old-world charm and modern comfort.
The vibrant living room of La Commanderie de Chanu.
Country
getaway
Just 1.5 hours from Paris and Deauville, Villiers-en-Désœuvre is the ideal retreat for unwinding. Stroll through picturesque Norman villages, visit Giverny and Claude Monet’s iconic gardens, hike or bike through the rolling countryside, or enjoy a serene cruise on the Seine.
Closer to La Commanderie de Chanu, the options are just as delightful. Explore the local market—be sure to grab some Pont-l’Évêque cheese and a bottle of cider—and visit the Ferme du Champ Secret for their famous camembert. Back at La Commanderie, whip up a teurgoule, Normandy’s signature cinnamon rice pudding, and savor it by the fire with a good book for the perfect end to the day.
The 3 things
we love the most
Nature everywhere
The history of the place
The contemporary decor
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Destination Villiers-en-Désœuvre
La Commanderie de Chanu
4 Rue de la Commanderie, 27640, Villiers-en-Désœuvre, France
Transports
Bueil train station
6 min
Bréval train station
9 min
Restaurants
Martin : le bistrot de Primard (bistronomic cuisine)
8 min
Shops and Craft workshops
Anthos Comptoir Méditerranéen (fine grocery store)
14 min
Nature, Culture and Heritage
Centre Equestre et Poney Club de la Forêt de Mérey (Equestrian Center)
10 min
Museum of Impressionism
30 min
French Vexin Regional Natural Park
51 min
La Commanderie de Chanu
4 Rue de la Commanderie, 27640, Villiers-en-Désœuvre, France
Featured in
Turn it up!
Get inspired!
1.
Le grand Larousse de l'Histoire de France
2.
Velvet cushion
3.
Candles
