Welcome to Château de la Grillère.
The Château Experience
Château de la Grillere combines historic charm with modern comfort. Set within 12 acres of parkland, it offers a peaceful retreat, ideal for hosting events, relaxing stays, or exploring the region.
Contact us to learn more or to plan your visit.
Château de la Grillère is located on the outskirts of Saint Germain les Belles, a peaceful commune in the Haute-Vienne region of southwest France. Just 42 km (26 miles) from the city of Limoges and a 40-minute drive from Limoges International Airport, the chateau offers a tranquil escape with convenient access to nearby attractions.
A Rich History
Built in 1825 by the Chenot family, Château de la Grillère is steeped in history. It later became home to Helene, the aunt of celebrated French philosopher and writer Simone de Beauvoir. Simone spent many summers here during her youth, joined by Jean-Paul Sartre, who walked from Saint Germain les Belles to visit her.
The chateau's connection to Simone de Beauvoir is honored in the village, where a library and street have been named after her.
The Château
Château de la Grillere spans four levels, including a cellar and three living floors:
Cellar: A large cellar covering the entire footprint of the chateau, ideal for storage and wine enthusiasts.
Ground Floor: Grand hall, three spacious salons for lounging and dining, a modern kitchen, a complete laundry room, and a boot room.
Second Floor: six bedrooms, three with ensuite bathrooms, plus a shared full bathroom and a separate single toilet.
Third Floor: Currently under renovation, it features six bedrooms, including two with ensuite bathrooms, plus a shared full bathroom and a separate toilet for added convenience.
The combination of historical charm, thoughtful restoration, and modern amenities makes the chateau both functional and luxurious.
The Area
The Haute-Vienne region is known for its rolling landscapes, charming villages, and the distinctive Limousine cattle grazing in the fields. Nearby, the city of Limoges offers cultural attractions such as:
A historic cathedral.
A thriving old town with cobbled streets, antique shops, and bookstores.
Daily markets featuring fresh produce, local delicacies, and traditional chocolates.
For outdoor activities, the River Vienne provides opportunities for canoeing and paddleboarding, while picturesque villages and architectural landmarks are scattered throughout the region. Highlights include:
Collonges-la-Rouge and Rocamadour to the south.
Oradour-sur-Glane to the north.
The wine-rich city of Bergerac, 1.5 hours away.
Bordeaux, 2.5 hours south, renowned for its historic monuments.
The coastal city of La Rochelle, a 3-hour drive from the chateau.
