In 2016, Zaya Younan bought a 15th-century château west of Tours, on the route to the Bourgueil, Saumur and Chinon vineyards: Beauvois Castle. With its fine slate roof, tufa stone facades and Renaissance tower, the estate has been transformed into a luxury 4-star hotel. Nestling in the woods, it lends itself equally well to romantic breaks, weddings and seminars.
Table of Contents
Formerly Château Beauvais, Château de Beauvois is an example of French Renaissance architecture, with its high-pitched slate roofs, sculpted facades, mullioned windows and 15th-century tower. The building is located a few kilometres from the Loire, facing the Briffaut pond. In the heart of a 40-hectare wooded park, where Louis XIII is said to have hunted birds with a harquebus.
You arrive in the park, a gentle transition between the hustle and bustle of the outside world and the suspended time of your stay. The building, typical of the seigniorial residences of Touraine, resembles a Renaissance manor in its volumes: light-coloured stone main building, sloping roofs, numerous openings onto the park, terraces and large dining rooms.
When the setting sets the tone
Reproductions of famous historical figures - Marie-Antoinette, Louis XV... - adorn the walls. Architect Mathieu Michaud has made no mistake. Everything here invites you to sample the pleasures of luxury life. Starting with the bar at the far end of the entrance, decorated with Empire furniture.
Some of the vaults, still solid and remarkably well-preserved, were used as anchors for the restoration; new structures were added to the original beams that had been preserved. These volumes had to be transformed into lounges and a fine dining room.
The grounds are a natural extension of these spaces, right up to the heated outdoor mosaic swimming pool, modern in design but perfectly integrated into the historic setting, which is open in season.
From château to outbuildings: the Beauvois experience
Across the centuries, in a delightfully casual jumble, one discovers the 35 rooms. Zaya Younan has chosen to furnish them without giving in to the temptation of second-hand goods or accumulation. The spacious rooms feature high ceilings, exposed beams, antique furniture and contemporary comforts. Wood panelling, tapestries, period furniture and paintings evoke the spirit of the royal flats, with a distinct opulence. Finally, the luxury extends to the bathrooms, which are generous and well-kept.
In the wings, the approach is more contemporary, sometimes with direct access to the garden. The decor is understated, the lighting soft, and the furniture does not imitate the past, but accompanies it. Comfort comes first: quality bedding, modern bathrooms, good soundproofing.
A gourmet restaurant: the Louis XIII
It is in this setting steeped in history that Teddy Ragain offers gourmet cuisine based on local, seasonal produce. Renowned for his expertise in French gastronomy and a keen eye for detail, Ragain's cuisine is sincere and daring, in harmony with the Loire region and driven by a desire to bring culinary art to every plate.
We have chosen the 4-course nature menu, with dishes inspired by the surrounding countryside. We start with a walk in the woods with a mushroom bavaroise, charcoal compost, shiitake velvet and mushroom sorbet. Followed by a perfect egg, candied egg yolk and grated autumn truffles.
The farci tourangeau is a fine example of local cuisine: stuffed cabbage darioles, creamy spinach and vegetable juice. A dish that makes me think of a province happy to be alive. A fine piece of work from a sensitive and inspired chef.
The meal ends with the cheese trolley and the autumnal charlotte: butternut, cinnamon and orange.
This is a very fine restaurant, cosy, brilliant and of a very high standard. The chef plays with the seasons, local produce... and the great vintages of the vaulted cellar.
The pastry chef, Nancie Cecillon, embraces artisanal and gourmet creations, where every texture and every aromatic note harmonizes with Teddy Ragain’s gastronomic universe.
The Beauvois cellar houses an impressive collection of great vintages. A finely worked gate marks the entrance. This cellar was installed in the former tufa quarry used to build the château's towers. Completely refurbished in shades of black and gold, this troglodytic space, dug eighteen metres deep, dates back to the very origins of the estate. Here, lovers of fine wines can enjoy a privileged tasting experience from a selection of some 19,000 bottles. Visits to the cellar every Saturday at 5.30 pm, by prior arrangement only, by calling reception on 02 47 55 50 11.
Château de Beauvois
Route de Beauvois
37230 Saint Etienne de Chigny
reception.beauvois@lamaisonyounan.com
Tel : +33247555011
Just 20 minutes from Tours and less than an hour from Paris by TGV, the château is open to the public for guided tours.
- Forest park (40 ha) ideal for walks, reminiscent of its former hunting grounds.
- Large outdoor mosaic swimming pool, modern but integrated into the historic setting (heated)
- Terraces for dining in fine weather, tennis court, outdoor activities, cellar tours, hiking and cycling.
35 rooms and suites, These are divided into 6 categories:
- classic 20m² room, view of the French gardens
- 23m² traditional room, Louis XIII or Louis XVI style, overlooking the terrace or main courtyard
- 30m² superior room, overlooking the courtyard of honour or the terrace, some with exposed beams
- Deluxe room (35m²), overlooking the Château terrace or the Briffaut pond, sleeps 3, with period furniture.
- Junior suite 40m², overlooking the Château terrace or the Briffaut lake, sleeps 4 people
- 47m² 2-bedroom flat, sleeps up to 6, with views over the terrace.
Tea Time at the Château
Every afternoon, from 3pm to 5pm, enjoy a fizzy drink, a hot beverage and three delicious pastries. Board games and cards are available to extend this timeless moment. Bookings required.
Plus points :
- Heated outdoor swimming pool (open from May to September)
- Restaurant
- Non-smoking rooms
- Airport shuttle
- Free Wi-Fi connection
Text : Michèle Lasseur
Photos : Château de Beauvois
