Manoir Belvedere

Manoir de Belvedere St Goustan, Auray

FLEXI START/STAY

Sleeps 6-8 This magnificent manor house in the heart of Auray, built in 1558 and used as a hunting lodge by the Duc de Bretagne, is on the site of the original Chateau d'Auray which itself was constructed  in 1220 to keep the British invaders out!  The manoir was built from the chateau’s granite stones. The high walls above and below the garden are part of the original fortifications. And, from the 'garden room' one can see high above the garden wall the huge Magnolia Florinbunda - 250 years old as well as the 13th century box tree, planted inside the chateau walls. The accommodation is the first floor apartment, which is huge with really high ceilings, original beams, and original chestnut floors which have been lovingly restored by the current owners.  It is tastefully furnished with Louis XV and Henry II style furniture, collection décor objects, tapestry and paintings, while the kitchen and bathrooms are fitted with modern features to ensure maximum comfort. One has the feeling of entering a beautifully furnished home. Direct access from rue du Chateau, with private, paved passageway and an iroko outside staircase. The floor below is the salon du thé “le Petit Chateau”, with huge fireplaces, a 16th century wash-basin and vestiges of the chateau’s only remaining tower as well as traces of the Duc de Bretagne’s coat of arms. So not far to go for a lovely cuppa and cake.  Very close to shops and restaurants and an array of 8 boulangeries within walking distance! The house is situated mid-way down  the cobble-stoned rue du Chateau descending from Place de Republique  to the  Roman port of St. Goustain where, in the 18th century, Benjamin Franklin arrived by sea from the American colonies to negotiate France’s support for their independence.

Entrance through a stone walled hallway the tiled semi-covered terrace, which is a big bright place and ideal for sitting relaxing and alfresco dining, and you will be wow'ed by the fabulous stone work in the hallway, as in the photo above.  Off this hallway you will find a new and modern family bathroom with bath, shower over, toilet and sink.

Beyond the hallway is the newly renovated kitchen, another bright and modern space, with washing machine, ceramic hob, microwave, electric oven, cookery, cutlery, etc.

The lounge is very large and light with lovely large windows, original working fireplace, card table with four chairs in the corner, TV and DVD .Just take a moment when you are there to look at the original chestnut floor, so complex that only master craftsmen were able to help with the renovation. Super comfy sofas and armchairs complete the room. The fireplace and chimney are ready to use, but you will need to buy logs or coal.

The dining room is at the back of the apartment and has table and six chairs and many original features.  WiFi connection via your own machine. There are three bedrooms, three double rooms (two with a single bed making them triple rooms).

The "garden" bedroom  has an ensuite shower room, the twin room is called "magnolia" and another double with an original fireplace is the "chateau" room which also has a little tower alcove with bookshelves.  All the bedrooms are large and bright with original beams and some even have the original exposed stone work. Also they all have bedside table with lamps, wardrobes and plenty of storage space. Within a few metres of the property are shops, boutiques and galleries, and many restaurants, especially on the quayside of St Goustain and beside the 13th century bridge. Outside you will find your own private garden with views over the roof tops.  There is garden furniture and a BBQ.  Bed & kitchen linen is provided and towels can be hired (5€ per person) on request and must be indicated on the booking form. Strictly no smoking inside, please. Not suitable for those with mobility problems. One well behaved dog welcome. Heating available at 50€ per week, when required. End of stay clean 70€ or leave as you find it. Port of St Goustan on the doorstep

Client Feedback: “We had a most enjoyable 10 day stay at the Manoir, it is a beautiful apartment in a lovely 16th century house  situated in the old part of  Auray on a quiet pedestrianised street leading down to the old port. The rooms are truly spacious, very comfortable and beautifully and appropriately furnished. The house is just a pleasure to relax in. The living room and principal bedroom in particular are of a quality you simply do not expect in a “holiday home”. The dining room and other bedrooms are first class.

The apartment is ideally situated  a 2-3 minute walk  from the port and a choice of more than half a dozen very good restaurants plus a couple of creperies. Going uphill you are 50 metres away from a little bar which is open every day for lunch, but more importantly is open for dinner every Friday and Saturday.  A one minute walk takes you to the Place de la Republique - more good restaurants and some excellent bakers, charcuteries and an interesting daily market. You will eat well in Auray. There are some interesting riverside walks and the town itself is worth exploring, and all pretty well on the Manoir’s doorstep.