The Ultimate Experience in Provence
There were so many wonderful parts of staying at Chez Christelle. I kept saying "if the walls could talk", I can only imagine the stories since 1850.
The chateau and grounds are lovely and provide a very special experience that will never be forgotten.
As a cook, I was so very appreciative of high end appliances in the kitchen.
The rooms were clean and comfortable, and despite very hot temperatures, the fans in each room helped us to stay comfortable as we slept.
I do regret that when I booked the Chez Christelle before COVID, my sons were all coming to join me. I felt it sad that there were only 3 of us to enjoy the home. Christel was so lovely in helping us when we had an issue with the hot water heater. We did miss meeting her in person.
The "welcome" book, wine, strawberries and candy were such kind gifts; so very appreciated.
Having stayed in many higher end AirB&B's across the world, I hope the following suggestions are helpful in renting this property going forward:
The woman that checked us in and out did not speak ANY English. It was very difficult to communicate with her, and we could not get answers to our questions as a result. As a side note:
I signed up for French classes when we arrived home 2 days ago!
Provence Holidays did have a representative call, but when I called back and left a message, a return call was not made. I did not hear from anyone again in the 2 weeks I was there. I do want to mention that over the 2 years I was waiting to visit, Simon and the other agents at Provence Holidays were AMAZING! I so very much appreciated their help and the opportunity to keep my reservation for such a lengthy time period.
Other rentals I have been in have included: paper towels, new bath soaps ( they were used here), plastic wrap, baggies and trash bags.The Kitchen dish soap was watered down and not full and there were only 3 dishwashing tabs left for us. Additionally, it would have been wonderful to have been given the "heads up" on the mosquito issue. We were all bitten rather badly right away. We did not come prepared with insect repellant. Our temperatures reached 103 degrees, so obviously this issue is a summer one.
We had to go to the large market immediately the next morning for all of these supplies.
We needed instructions for both the stovetop and microwave.
A history of the chateau in the welcome book would have been a wonderful addition. We were so curious.
At check out, we were told there would be a "walk through" and an "inventory" taken; I asked what this was for as I had never experienced it with other rentals; I was not given a response. We would have better prepared for this if we had known what to do.
In addition to instructions at check out for trash removal, I think it would be helpful to give instructions on what to do with the linens as well. Also, we weren't sure if we should have run the dishwasher.
I would HIGHLY recommend this property to others and once again, will never forget the most amazing time we had there. I hope that I might return again as well.