Manoir Du Moulin

Manoir Du Moulin Luxury Retreat

Manoir Du Moulin is a lovingly restored 17th century manor house located in the Pays de la Loire region of France and is owned and operated by Canadian ex-pats Shari Swan and Warren Coulson.

With it's many outbuildings and courtyard, acre of romantic gardens and rambling orchard of sundry fruit trees, Manoir du Moulin is dreamy indeed. Undertaking an ambitious restoration in 2012 that transformed the neglected estate into a chic luxury retreat of exquisite contemporary style, Swan and Coulson have breathed new life into the home and its resplendent grounds.

The interiors of Manoir Du Moulin are grand, intimate, intriguing, and inviting. Exposed stone walls throughout the home whisper the history of French families past who escaped the stuffy confines of Parisian summers for the fresh country air and produce of the Vendée.

The manor’s original, solid oak floors testify to a bygone era of craftsmanship, worn soft by centuries of slipper-clad feet. Expert modern tile work, exceptional finishes, and cunning attention to detail complement the heavy wood beams, custom furniture, and polished restored stone and woodwork.

For modern families and travelers, Manoir du Moulin captures everything the heart yearns for in a European escape – true authenticity of the region, coupled with all the comforts of contemporary luxury… ✣ Egyptian cotton, pressed, white linens with down and microfiber duvet and pillows for every 200x200 king-size bed (rare sleeping dimensions in France and southern Europe); ✣ Italian-tile bathrooms with rain-shower, heated towel racks, plush bathrobes, and free-standing cocoon bathtub; ✣ Fireplace, flatscreen, and wi-fi in-room; ✣ Communal study with fireplace, snacks, books, and beverages; ✣ And a bounteous French/Canadian breakfast served every morning in the sunny Conservatory, featuring pastries, pancakes, real maple syrup, organic seasonal fruit and cheeses and homemade confitures from the orchard.

Experiences to Write Home About

Already unique in the Vendée for comfort and style, Swan and Coulson are equally offering inspiring experiences and hospitality. Cooking lessons and dinners with world-renowned chefs, wine tastings with seasoned sommeliers, surf lessons and excursions, and in-room spa services are just a few fantastic options. Wandering the gardens, daydreaming in the orchard, or curling up by the fire in the study are a few more often unplanned, yet equally enjoyable (and often much-needed!) experiences for many manor guests.

A short stroll in search of a post box will land you in the heart of St. Hermine – the village square – that springs to life every Friday morning with market stalls groaning under the weight of the region’s best and freshest everything.

After a day spent gallivanting through French wine country, frolicking on the beach, and eating your way through the gastronomic history of the Vendée, there is no more welcoming abode to return to.

All Ages Luxury

Manoir du Moulin might be an obvious choice for couples, foodies, friends, and grown-ups of every persuasion, let it be known that this manor house is as welcoming to wee ones as it is the mature. Cots, playpens, high chairs, toys, and a wading pool are just a few needful items that can be made to magically appear. Not to mention the all-important, well-known and trusted babysitter, for when Mom and Dad feel like a quiet dinner, and perhaps a turn on the dancefloor of Le Manoir – one of the most famous nightclubs in France, which happens to be stumbling distance from Manoir du Moulin.

Forty minutes from the cities of Nantes and Larochelle, with their lively cultural scenes and international airports, and twenty minutes to a multitude of châteaux, historic attractions, and incredible restaurants, Manoir du Moulin offers attractive packages for a variety of stays. The “Wicked Weekend” package packs as much (or as little) into 2.5 days as possible for hen nights, couples retreat, or romantic getaway. The “Wonderful Wedding” package is totally turnkey, with food, wine, photographer, and music included. The “Corporate Coddling” package is aimed at business retreats, whether for branding and marketing session, team-building, or executive reward. The “Family Vacay” package gives parents a blissfully stress-free itinerary. Last but not least, the “Inspired Extended Stay” package, available in 2013 at the completion of the Manoir’s private Gîte, will be an opportunity for artists or anyone wishing to experience the region at length to do so with every creature comfort available.

Currently ranked #6 on Trip Advisor for the region you can find out more about this exquisite luxury retreat in the Loire at www.ManoirduMoulin.com