Accolades & Media Highlights

"An Exceptional Stay - Truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s run with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay." ~ Michelin Hotel Awards

"Since 1986, the Domaine has been owned by the Primat family, which oversaw its refurbishment. In 2023, the French countryside hotel entered the Auberge Resorts Collection, and it’s clear that its spirit, graciousness, and slow pace remain gratifyingly unchanged." ~ Condé Nast Traveler

Domaine des Etangs is awarded the ‘#1 Hotel in France’ and the ‘#11 Best Hotel in the World’ by the Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards 2023

"One of France’s finest château hotels, Domaine des Etangs, part of the esteemed Auberge Resorts Collection, is the stuff your Francophile (and fairy-tale) dreams are made of. The 13th-century castle sits on a 2,500-acre estate, with manicured lawns, floating tennis courts and a huge lake, with row boats ready for quoting Keats." ~ Harper's Bazaar

"While it’s tempting to spend the entirety of a stay outdoors, the castle’s common areas beckon. The game room has a billiards table, board games, and costumes for children. For more adult pursuits, there’s a cozy library built for lingering and a cigar room. Throughout the hotel are works by European artists Hans Peter Feldmann, Thomas Ruff, and Henri Matisse —mostly from Garance’s personal collection." ~ Afar

"Apart from top-notch wellness programmes, there are guided nature walks with a forest ranger, as well as visits to the beehives with the gardener. Within the estate, bicycles and electric cars are provided to guests to explore the 1000-hectare grounds. Local tree species have been planted thoughtfully to keep the environment as authentic as possible and there is also a certified organic vegetable garden." ~ Travel + Leisure

"Considering this impressive collection of classic structures, it’s a testament to the stewards of Domaine des Etangs that history isn’t quite what defines it, rather the picture of active countryside relaxation in the heart of picture-perfect France." ~ Michelin Guide

"Auberge Resorts Collection continues its expansion into Europe with this week’s announcement that it will assume management of the sumptuous Domaine des Etangs. Domaine des Etangs was the Primat family’s private country estate for decades until they opened it to the public as a hotel in 2015." ~ Forbes

"Auberge Resorts Collection just announced it's expanding its European presence with the historic Domaine des Etangs castle, which the company will begin managing in April. The property — a picture-perfect 13th-century château on 2,500 acres of spectacular natural landscapes — embraces local culture and history while offering a modern take on the French art de vivre." ~ Travel + Leisure

#9 Domaine des Etangs is a fairytale castle nestled deep in the Charente countryside

"There are only 29 bedrooms on a 2,500-acre estate roamed by Limousin cattle. Modern art hangs in drawing rooms; and a library has been curated by Curzon Street’s Heywood Hill bookshop. One could happily spend days in this medieval land with picnics on demand and nights gazing up at the shooting stars over the water." ~ Tatler

"The Domaine des Etangs is in Massignac, between the towns of Cognac and Limoges—an underexplored and overlooked part of the country. Yet the region, with its rolling, romantic countryside, unspoiled towns and villages, and centuries-old artisan culture, is spectacular. Now this remarkable property is inviting visitors to discover an entirely new part of France." ~ Departures