Chateau St Pierre de Serjac – Les Ateliers

After a swift 30-minute taxi or drive from tiny Beziers airport, it’s hard to know who'll be more excited as the first view of the rolling grounds, beautiful turrets and glistening swimming pool of the magnificent Chateau St Pierre de Serjac as it sweeps into view. Will it be grown-ups, who'll be chomping at the bit to check-in at their sleek and stylish new home, spurred by the thought of a spa and a potential break from the cooking, or mini-guests who'll be totally enchanted by the Disney-esque fairy-tale castle exterior and summer time kids club. Whichever it is, there's little doubt that the initial surge of excitement is unlikely to fade.

This chateau is a sister site to our old favourite Les Carrasses and has been given the same chic yet family-friendly renovation. It boasts 36 luxurious, self-catering apartments, cottages and houses, some with private pools, a kid-friendly but foodie's paradise of a restaurant, a cocktail bar, luxurious spa, electric bikes, gourmet picnic service, room-service meal delivery and a kids clubhouse (open in peak summer and select school holidays). That's not to mention the stunning communal swimming pool (heated April-October), master clay tennis courts, boules pitches and glorious 10-acres of grounds, which guests are encouraged to roam using the bikes provided. Junior guests aged 4 and over love the outdoorsy approach of the summer holiday kids activities that are based in the kids 'HQ'. There’s also regular kids dinner parties and movie nights. Even outside of school holidays, there's plenty for little ones to do with trikes available on free loan, acres of lawns to play on and of course the heated swimming pool.

Although the accommodation is self-catering, great food and drink is high on the agenda at Chateau Saint Pierre de Serjac. There’s a relaxed and laid-back restaurant, headed up by chef Jeshen Narayanen who provides locally sourced French cuisine with a distinctive southern accent. The bar is a sophisticated and cosy spot, perfect for adults taking advantage of the hotel’s babysitting service. For those looking for a low-key family night, without the hassle of cooking, the chateau also provides in-room dining options with delicious plats du jour, pizzas and BBQ packs.

Being so close to the airport, itself only a short hop from the UK, Chateau St Pierre de Serjac is perfect for an indulgent weekend break, but its stylish and well-equipped accommodation will have most guests hankering to stay much longer and, with so many places to explore in the region, whether the sights and sounds of Carcassonne, Montpellier and Marseille, or the beautiful coastline, two weeks is easily filled. Every suite, apartment and villa at Château St Pierre De Serjac, is spacious and luxurious, making the most of the impressive dimensions and original features of the 19th century buildings. Each property is individually interior designed, though all share a chic French take on tradition-meets-modernity. Beds are large and comfortable, and bathrooms have large tubs and/or showers, comfortable bathrobes and luxury toiletries. Living areas offer wi-fi, flat screen TV/DVD, and iPod, fully charged with carefully selected playlists. Every property has a fully equipped kitchen, and all are air-conditioned and heated. Washing machines ae provided in all apartments except the chateau suites and attic apartments. Most of the properties have sunny private gardens or terraces with BBQ, outdoor dining areas and sun loungers. Some even offer private swimming pools.

Accommodation Overview

Les Ateliers – Spacious two bedroom houses with high beamed ceilings, original period features and a large outdoor dining terrace with enclosed garden. Open plan living/kitchen area on the ground floor leading onto the terrace and garden. Two first floor bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom, with bath or with Italian shower.