Fodor's Expert Review Château de Pray

Rue du Cèdre, Chargé, Centre-Val de Loire, 37530, France Fodor's Choice

Like a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, this hotel keeps purring along, decade after decade, offering many delights: a romantic twin-tower château, a Loire River vista, tranquil guest rooms (four of the less expensive are in a charming "Pavillon Renaissance"), and an excellent restaurant. Fifty years ago Loire Valley guidebooks praised this domain, and things have only gotten better. Chef Arnaud Philippon's Michelin-starred restaurant is set in two salons, one in brilliant golds, the other lighted with chandeliers and stained-glass windows, lined with tapestries, and spectacularly centered on a neo-Gothic, sculpted-wood fireplace. Be sure to reserve in advance.

PROS

  • Marvelous setting
  • Superlative restaurant
  • Beautiful views

CONS

  • Service can be haughty
  • No bar
  • Decor dated

QUICK FACTS

Hotel
Pet Friendly
$$

HOTEL INFO

Phones: 02–47–57–23–67

HOTEL DETAILS

19 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals, Closed Jan. and 2 wks in Nov.

What’s Nearby