Hat Course Locations
The hat courses are nestled in four enchanting châteaux, scattered across the picturesque Lot-et-Garonne region. Chateau Mespoule, Hotel de Cours de Thomazeau, Manoir de Roquegautier, and Chateau Belhomme are all within a 45-minute radius of each other, each one a unique gem with its own distinct character and charm. These captivating châteaux boast an array of quirks and beauty, promising an unforgettable experience amidst the rolling hills and lush landscapes of this idyllic French countryside. This captivating region is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty in southwestern France.
NON RESIDENTIAL CHATEAU
Chateau Belhomme
The Château, one of the very earliest examples of a concrete and cement home, was constructed by Augustus Belhomme, the first socialist elected to the Senate in Paris. It was built in 1870 mostly to promote his cement factory that was located only a few hundred meters away on the banks of the river Lot. Images of the unique Château were used in many of his newspaper advertisements and posters throughout the early 1900s and over twenty different postcards exist featuring differing images of the house. The Château was built leaving no room for a garden, but being a Senator, he requested an island be built in the middle of the adjacent Lemence River with a bridge from the ground floor entrance to access it. After years of neglect, the island has recently began to be restored and now provides a relaxing venue for an outside tea room
NON RESIDENTIAL CHATEAU
Hotel de Cours de Thomazeau
Hotel de Cours de Thomazeau was designed by the famous French architect Victor Louis, who also designed the Bordeaux Opera House. It’s the only official historic moment in Castillonnès. A fun fact it’s actually two different castles stacked on top of each other with the first two levels dating back to the 12th century and the upper two levels to the 18th
ALL INCLUSIVE RESIDENTIAL CHATEAU
Manoir de Roquegautier
Manoir de Roquegautier is a historic manor located in Beaugas, Lot-et-Garonne, France. It dates back to the 16th century, with the first mention of the manor in 1528. The manor has undergone changes over the centuries, with significant modifications made in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The seigneury of Roquegautier was owned by the Boyssonade family in the 16th century.
Guillaume de Boyssonade likely built the manor at the beginning of the 16th century.
The property later passed to the Bourgoin and Galaup families.
The manor includes a cellar with barrels and a press, a barn, and a windmill.
A gallery was added to the south elevation, and an octagonal tower was built on the northeast
ALL INCLUSIVE RESIDENTIAL CHATEAU
Chateau Mespoule
Chateau Mespoule dates from the mid 1500’s, and was reputedly owned by the King's lawyer, staying in the same family for 300 years, that’s ten generations! It was subsequently a holiday home for an heiress and is now a comfortable home for Catherine and Jonathan.
Aside from entertaining family and friends, we organise wine tours; being perfectly placed to visit Bordeaux, Bergerac and Cahors regions, and we also love to share the local gastronomy.
We are very excited to extend our offering to Hats and working with Donna to create more wonderful experiences!
If you wish to extend your stay at Chateau Mespoule, there is an opportunity to stay 3 extra nights and take part in an authentic French wine tasting & touring experience.
Explore
The Lot-et-Garonne region in southwestern France is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and charming culture. Here are some wonderful facts about this lovely region:
Bastide Towns
Lot-et-Garonne is home to numerous bastide towns, such as Monflanquin, Villeréal, & Castillonnes, which were founded in the 13th century and boast picturesque medieval architecture.
Châteaux and Vineyards
The region is dotted with stunning châteaux, including the famous Château de Bonaguil and Château de Duras, surrounded by rolling vineyards producing some of France's finest wines.
Diverse Landscapes
Lot-et-Garonne features a diverse range of landscapes, from the lush valleys of the Lot and Garonne rivers to the rolling hills and forests of the Agenais and Marmandais regions.
Gastronomic Delights
The region is renowned for its delicious cuisine, featuring specialties such as foie gras, duck confit, and prunes from the Agenais, as well as an array of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Romanesque Architecture
Lot-et-Garonne is home to numerous Romanesque churches and abbeys, including the stunning Abbaye de Moirax and Église Saint-Pierre de Montpezat.
Festivals and Traditions
The region celebrates many festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête de la Madeleine in Monflanquin and the Fête du Vin Nouveau in Marmande, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
Accommodation Options →
Accommodations in Fumel:
Brit Hotel
Place Leo Lagrange
47500 Fumel
La Maison Du Parc
23 Avenue Principal
47500 Saint Vite
15 mins walk from Chateau Belhomme
Bed and breakfast
Lisa will provide evening meal with wine at an extra cost or airport pick-ups.
Please email Lisa and discuss further details directly:
+33 0767796057
lisajackman6@gmail.com
Accommodations in Castillonnes:
L'Entrée Bed and Breakfast Bar & Restaurant
1 rue de la Porte des Valets
47330 Castillonnes
The Ramparts of the Bastide
26 rue de la Paix
47330 Castillonnes
