Les Hauts de Sancerre

from $319
Check availability on Booking.com Check availability on Expedia
Photo of Les Hauts de Sancerre
Exterior
1 / 18
Gourmet Cuisine
Exterior
“A stunning historic building turned luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Sancerre. Beautiful contemporary interiors and mid-century furniture sit alongside gorgeous original features including a dramatic stone staircase. The restaurant is stand-out and the views are unbeatable.”

Hotel review

Finally, a stunning five-star hotel in Sancerre that complements the high stature of its surrounding vineyards! Purchased only four years ago by a French-Belgian couple, Les Hauts de Sancerre is a testament to their tenacity in wanting to bring a historic building (this was once the town's 12th Century chateau) back to life. The exterior is jaw-dropping. The attention to detail is simply phenomenal, and the end product is superb (it really has to be seen to be believed). Inside couldn’t be much different, a fresh contemporary contrast to the bricks and mortar. Rooms have been opened up to create airy, bright, free-flowing spaces which are filled with modern mid-century furnishings and a very pared-back feel. But that doesn’t mean that all the period features have disappeared. There’s a magnificent stone staircase and beautiful beamed ceilings, alongside fireplaces and much more.

The rooms and suites echo the contemporary communal areas. All are done in neutral palettes with white, cream and splashes of dark green which echo the greenery from the garden, and lots of light wood, including gorgeous parquet floors and blond oak headboards. If you can, book one of the better rooms at the top of the property. Not only do you get the most incredible views from your perch, but you’ll also be treated to a shower in one turret and the wash basin in the other (the soaking tub is ideally positioned behind the bed so that you can sit there and soak up the vista.

However, the owners also wanted to put this place on the map for its food, and boy have they done that. L’Atelier du Cedre Restaurant is situated down the drive away from the hotel, and the dishes come from a father/son partnership that clearly knows what it's doing! The ethos is to celebrate the seasons and the countryside and much of the inspiration (the chefs' concept "Born of the Sea") comes from the fact that millions of years ago, Sancerre was beneath the sea. Every ingredient in every dish has a reason, and the helpful staff will take you through each one. The knowledgeable sommelier is also on hand, but I’d probably recommend going for a wine pairing.

Other amenities include a wellness area and gym in the main building and an outdoor pool nestled in the gardens just down the hill. The gardens are almost worth the visit alone. Not only is there an ancient medieval tower on site (you can climb for free if you’re a guest), but the views from the elevated position are breathtaking. Everywhere you wander is an Instagram opportunity!

Les Hauts de Sancerre ticks so many boxes for the discerning hotel guest. It’s small (only 9 rooms at present, though there are plans for more), it’s independently owned, its interiors are stunning, and the location in the very heart of town cannot be bettered. A final win is that for a five-star hotel it won’t break the bank (as long as you book one of the cosy rooms!). If you’re in the area and want a place to stay that lives up to the reputation of the surrounding vignobles, then this is it!

Sarah Empson

Recommended for

  • Foodies

    • L'Atelier du Cedre is run by father and son team Eddy and Arnaud Munster and produces course after course of divine dishes

  • Views

    • From its elevated position in Sancerre, the property has breathtaking 360° views over the surrounding countryside

  • Romantic Break

    • A beautiful hotel with immaculate contemporary interiors, fabulous suites, superb food and views to die for

  • Wine tasting

    • Obviously you're in Sancerre, so you must head to the town's excellent vineyards for tours and tastings!

  • Spa

    • The wellness area has a treatment room where they offer La Chenaie signature rituals

  • Artworks

    • The chateau is adorned with works by contemporary artists including Roan Van Oort

  • Kayaking

    • See the Loire Valley from a different angle by gently drifting along on a kayak

  • Pet friendly

    • Dogs are permitted in rooms (beds are provided) for a nightly fee

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the historic 14th Century Chateau de Buranlure

  • Contemporary

  • Designer

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Local markets

  • 5* Luxury

  • Air conditioning

  • Child friendly

  • Gym

  • Chic

  • Historic

  • Cycling

  • Boutique

  • Restaurant

Facilities

  • Rooms

    8 rooms in this hotel

  • Spa

    The wellness area has a treatment room where they offer La Chenaie signature rituals

  • Pet friendly

    Dogs are permitted in rooms (beds are provided) for a nightly fee

  • Swimming Pool

    Seasonal outdoor pool heated from Mid April to Mid October

  • Outdoor dining

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Wifi

  • Safe

  • Bath robes

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Cots available

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Suites

  • Air conditioning

  • Sitting Room

  • Child friendly

  • Gym

  • Restaurant

Activities

  • Wine tasting

    • Obviously you're in Sancerre, so you must head to the town's excellent vineyards for tours and tastings!

  • Kayaking

    • See the Loire Valley from a different angle by gently drifting along on a kayak

  • Sights nearby

    • Visit the historic 14th Century Chateau de Buranlure

  • Local markets

  • Cycling

Map & Location

See what they say

Why do people love staying in your hotel?

Guests fall in love with our hotel for its unique character, rich history and exceptional setting at the very top of Sancerre, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Every detail has been thoughtfully curated, from the understated, elegant interiors to the carefully selected furnishings, creating an atmosphere of timeless refinement.

Above all, our hotel is a celebration of art in all its forms: the art of hospitality, the art of fine dining, and the visual arts. Throughout the estate, from the gardens and parkland to the bedrooms and public spaces, exhibitions and collections invite guests to discover, experience and connect with art in an intimate and inspiring setting.

A truly distinctive destination where heritage, beauty, art and the French art de vivre come together.

What is there to do in the area or on site?

Discover the rich heritage, artistic spirit and exceptional terroir of Sancerre through a curated selection of local experiences.

Explore the temporary art exhibition set within the park, and visit the historic Tour des Fiefs, a remarkable landmark offering a glimpse into the region’s past.

Immerse yourself in the world of Sancerre wines with visits to local vineyards and wine cellars, meeting passionate winemakers and enjoying guided tastings of the region’s celebrated wines.

Discover the art of traditional cheesemaking with a visit to a local farm, where you can learn about the production and affinage of the renowned Crottin de Chavignol goat’s cheese, followed by a tasting.

Venture to La Borne, a charming village renowned for its pottery and centuries-old ceramic tradition, where craftsmanship and creativity come together.

Finally, discover the fascinating world of barrel-making with a visit to the Charlois cooperage, where exceptional craftsmanship and traditional expertise play an essential role in the art of winemaking.

A collection of authentic experiences celebrating the art, heritage, craftsmanship and gastronomy of the Sancerre region.


What kind of breakfast do you offer?

Start the day with an elegant buffet breakfast, complemented by a selection of hot dishes freshly prepared to order.

Our breakfast showcases the richness of the Sancerre region, with a carefully curated selection of local specialities, including Lichou, Berrichon puff pastry and the renowned Crottin de Chavignol goat’s cheese.

We are proud to work hand in hand with passionate local producers and artisans: cheeses from Romain Dubois in Chavignol, charcuterie from Maison Chevreau in Menetou-Râtel, freshly baked bread and pastries from Maison Ô Repère in Sancerre, and the traditional Lichou from Maison Pinard in Sancerre.

Committed to quality, seasonality and a more responsible approach, we also source a large proportion of our ingredients organically, including eggs, milk, fruit and vegetables.

An authentic breakfast, where local flavours, exceptional produce and the French art de vivre come together to create a truly memorable start to the day.

Do you offer other meals? And can you recommend good places to eat out locally?

L’Atelier du Cèdre invites guests to enjoy a refined gastronomic experience, where each dish is thoughtfully paired with exceptional wines from Sancerre and the surrounding region.

The restaurant offers a culinary journey that brings out the finest flavours of the region and above.

All this is enjoyed against the breathtaking backdrop of the Loire, creating an elegant and memorable dining experience where gastronomy, fine wines and exceptional views come together in perfect harmony.

Which are your most popular room types, and why?

The Tour Suite – A Timeless Stay Steeped in History

A truly unique suite nestled within the Tour des Fiefs, a 14th-century medieval tower once home to the lords of Sancerre.

Rich in history and character, this exceptional suite reveals its charm through a beautiful spiral staircase, soaring vaulted ceilings and an original period fireplace (not in use), creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance and understated luxury.

And for an unforgettable finishing touch, indulge in a relaxing bath while admiring the rooftops of Sancerre, a rare and enchanting view that makes this stay truly one of a kind.

What facilities do you have for children, and can you fit extra beds in your rooms?

A baby cot or an extra bed can be provided upon request in the Château Suites only.


What message would you like to give Hotel Guru readers?

We invite you to discover Sancerre in all its richness and diversity, through a truly immersive experience where history, art, gastronomy, wine and local craftsmanship come together. From our historic setting and inspiring art collections to encounters with passionate winemakers, local artisans and the region’s exceptional terroir, every experience offers a new way to connect with this remarkable destination. More than a hotel, we are a gateway to the soul of Sancerre, inviting you to embrace its heritage, culture and art de vivre in all their forms.

 

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

The Hotel Guru is a curated hotel recommendation platform that delivers expert-selected luxury and boutique properties straight to your inbox. No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

Check availability on Booking.com