French Château in the Ardennes, Review Domaine du Faucon

Château Domaine du Faucon in French Ardennes ©Solange Hando

Ever dreamt of staying in a French château? Try this one in northern France, dating back originally  to the 14th century and now a four star hotel with gourmet restaurant and stable facilities.

You will find it in rural surroundings near the village of Donchéry, not far from Charleville-Mézières and just an hour from the illustrious wine cellars of Champagne.

Standard Room in the Chàteau ©Solange Hando

Domaine du Faucon has a total of 30 rooms spread through the castle and annexes. In this stylish boutique hotel, every room boasts an individual colour scheme and design. 

In a secluded annex, the top floor honeymoon suite comes in warm orangy-peach shades with fine drapes over the bed and a luxurious bathroom.

Cosy Corner at the Domaine ©Solange Hando

The hotel does not have a lift but staff will help with luggage. It is beautifully warm in winter and much of the charms lies in the small convivial salons where friends can enjoy a pre-dinner drink by a glowing fire. There are marble fireplaces and plenty of artefacts to admire.

The château has a small fitness centre and spa, well-kept lawns and facilities for wedding receptions.

Ready for a Dinner Party ©Solange Hando

Besides relaxation, the domaine prides itself in its gastronomy which guests can enjoy over a leisurely dinner or a Sunday brunch.

Savoury or sweet, the cuisine is based on seasonal local products, prepared and presented with an original twist, such as beetroot gaspacho with apple and cream, game with lentils, local cheese, pastries and wines to match.

Parkland at Domaine du Faucon ©Solange Hando

The château is set in wooded parklands with walking trails and gurgling streams while nearer to the house you can play tennis and golf cross, a game imported from New-Zealand and played with an oval ball and a net.