Chateau de Razay

Hotel review

Set in what feels like the middle of absolutely nowhere, yet within easy reach of most of the Loire Valley's best bits, Chateau de Razay is a gem of a find. With history dating back centuries, and links to both Leonardo da Vinci’s disciples and Catherine de Medici, it is a properly atmospheric building constructed from the beautiful pale stonework that can be seen everywhere here.

The owners Nathan and Anna-Lea have made it their purpose to transform what was a rather tired chateau hotel into a smart yet relaxed hotel with a fabulous restaurant at its heart. They are well along this particular journey. All of the public areas downstairs have been revived by Anna-Lea’s superb eye for design. The walls are kept white with a fresh, airy feel, allowing all the other elements of the rooms to shine, from lovely vintage pieces to very modern sofas. Upstairs, the rooms that have been renovated are stunning (there are a handful left which feel firmly rooted in the 1980s, but they come with a bargain price tag!). They are all individually designed, but all follow the same style: plenty of oak, both light and dark, dusky greens and subtle, soft terracottas dominate, whilst the light fittings and other detailing seem to nod to Japan, with washi-style panelling separating bathroom from bedroom and lovely oriental light fittings in cream. Bathrooms are a real feature of the renovation too. All boast not only a walk-in shower, but also a deep soaking tub (something you usually only see if you book a suite or similar). The suites are gorgeous, with white walls playing backdrop to stunning feature ceilings with exposed beams. All rooms (whether renovated or not) have super comfy Treca mattresses and high-quality bed linens, and lovely Typology bathroom amenities.

For foodies, the restaurant is where the magic really happens here. Anna-Lea is also the head chef (she honed her skills working for luxury hotels in Paris), and she has created not only a beautiful space in which to dine, but equally stunning food. The menu is a list of dishes, of which you choose 3, 4 or 5 (6 if you’re feeling very hungry). The execution of each is faultless and the flavour explosions remarkable. Paired with some local Loire wines, dinner is a feast for the senses.

Also newly renovated, the pool area is a triumph too. As well as a large, deep pool surrounded by loungers, there’s a shallow pool for kids, changing rooms with showers (one outside for those who like the al fresco vibe) and a very chic bar/chill out area, where you can while away the afternoon, glass of rosé in hand, admiring the hectares of surrounding parkland.

If you’re visiting the Loire Valley and looking for something just a little bit different, I’d highly recommend Chateau de Razay. It’s full of character, but also feels like a place where you can kick back, relax and switch off. And with the energy and passion of its owners, it can surely only get better and better!

Sarah Empson