Deals of the day
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Between the Mediterranean Sea and the Cévennes, the Château de Pondres is located a short distance from the medieval town of Sommières, in the Gard department.
In the heart of unspoiled nature, the castle overlooks a 15-hectare park, dating back several centuries, bordered by a river. A place of prestige and tranquility, the Castle invites you to discover its elegant settings.
Parenthesis outside the agitations of the century, for a few hours, a night or several days of appeasement, reflection, sharing and soon art and culture, in the authenticity of a heritage of history and beauty, conducive healing and fulfillment.
The Salons du Château, the majestic Salle des Etats Généraux, its terraced areas and the immensity of the Park host business seminars, professional or cultural events, private receptions and weddings, as exact events.
A Historic Monument
Chateau de Pondres offers an exceptional setting with a park of 15 hectares. Terraces, French gardens, Avant Cour du Château or our Cour d’Honneur will welcome aperitifs, dining cocktails and lunch/dinner.
Your first meal together as a married couple has to be unforgettable, with only the finest ingredients and wines to complement the day’s celebrations.
Each of our wedding cuisine menus promise a taste of luxury, or work with our head chef to create a seasonal menu, made using local ingredients, that is truly unique to your day.
You can continue the evening with the presence of a DJ or orchestra until the end of the night. On Sunday, a sumptuous brunch awaits you to finish your stay at Château de Pondres.
The Tower of ‘’Bonne Garde’’
Uncertain of the date but probably part of the fortresses of old, the Tower of ‘’Bonne Garde’’ contains a remarkable spiral staircase, totaling 6 helical flights and 136 steps. In the foundations of the building, it led to two narrow and deep cellars, the use of which remain a mystery.
In “Bonne garde” of the Lord of the place the question must be asked, Were the stairs the starting point of a traditional underground gallery, where one could escape under the Castle to exit near the river Aygalade?
Before heading up to the current floors, the staircase, by a recent opening to the south, allows access to the fish pool level. A double flight of stairs leads to the courtyard on the ground level, then up to the 1st and 2nd Floor.
Rising above the 20m height difference, the staircase heads up to the roof level, leading to the narrow walkway on the outskirts of the Dome.
The remarkable architecture of the hexagonal dome, built of matching stones and topped by a faceted decorative knob. A simple flight of stone steps lead to the top floor of the staircase, the guard’s platform, from where they surveyed the road from Montpellier to Alès …
Gargoyles and cannons
Large stone gargoyles spring from the crowns of each tower. Positioned on the exposed faces, they give the impression of large guns in defense of the Monument.
In fact, their implementation in the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries seem to be lacking a reason, it could have been part of a deterrent strategy or a reminder of a glorious warlike past.
They certainly contribute to the overall decoration of the Castle with their motifs of carved ferns and their decorative placing. The Donjon, equipped with a circular walkway, has 8 intimidating cannons defending the castle.
Aliasing and Brattice
The lord of the nineteenth century, Marquis de Montlaur, was motivated by elements of military architrave. The construction of an aliasing at the top of the north wing, and the installation of a brattice, significantly modified the appearance of the facade. Back in the days when the Chateau de Pondres was a stronghold.
Rooms & Suites
The monumental staircase, built in the Renaissance era, leads you up to the 2nd floor. Wide corridors, take you to the wings of the Castle with views of the courtyard, our 10 newly-renovated rooms respect the original architecture and are decorated with an attention to detail.
Natural materials (teak, natural hemp, down and feathers) have been used when possible, especially in the fabrics, to accentuate the original character of the rooms. The suite ‘’collection’’, housed at the top of the donjon, is no exception and brings back memories of royal stays within the castle.
La Suite du Levant
This elegant family suite consists of two bedrooms. The Levant Suite is the largest suite in the Château. It consists of a large living room, two bedrooms, two private bathrooms, one of which has a bathtub. The parental suite enjoys a most majestic contemplative panoramic view of the Château’s park.
Chambres Signature Moulins
A breathtaking view of the Castle, in a sleek and modern style, in immaculate white, from the rooms in the old mills dating from the 9th century. These rooms are below the Castle in the wooded park, which will allow you to escape in complete peace of mind.
The existence of the Château de Pondres oil and wheat mills dates back to the 9th century. The restored millstones and channels are preserved as they are, traces of an immemorial past.
On the banks of the Aygalade river, in the surrounding listed wooded area, the adjacent and completely renovated stone building offers rooms combining the strength of history and modern comfort, some opening onto the imposing north facade of the Château, with views of the Park or the forest for others.
A paved path leads to the Castle, enjoying one of the most beautiful perspectives of its architecture.
Chambres Charme Maison des bois
Rooms warm and full of sweetness, they are located in an annex next to the Castle which is called ‘La Maison des Bois” between serenity and enchantment you will be delighted. The advantage is a private terrace. In the wooded part of the forecourt of the Château, access to the Maison des Bois is via the Orangerie gardens.
The 4 rooms built of stones and wood constitute a private terrace, under the plant cover of the surrounding forest. Spacious and clear, they combine the authenticity of materials and natural decoration with the latest advances in technology.
The Restaurant La Canopee
The original kitchen has been preserved, with its monumental fireplace and 5 metre high stone vault, its equipped with the most modern material. A refined cuisine, with an emphasis on local products.
The adjoining sitting room and the lounge area near the bar welcome you, opening onto the majestic courtyard and terrace, fountain and a magnificent view overlooking the gardens and the castle park.
Wellness
Out of the hustle and bustle of the world for hours, to stop time for a few minutes or several. In the old cellars of the Castle, testimony to a history prior to the 12th century and perhaps contempory with the beginning of our era, hammam, sauna, treatment and relaxation areas have found their place, obtained comfort and modern technologies.
The majestic stone vaults, the starry sky of the hammam, the complete range of treatments, the refinement of the products and our dedicated and attentive team will participate in making this sensory experience unique. For your care, your relaxation, your rejuvenation… Welcome to the Well-Being Center of the Château de Pondres.
Private Events & Weddings
On a 15 hectares park, nestled in Mediterranean flora at the top of a hill, the Castle of Ponders composes with its gardens and park a privileged setting for your private receptions, christenings, weddings, family gatherings…
Restoration of the building has taken time to realize itself, reasonably, sustainably, in constant concern to preserve its soul and architecture.
Conciliating harmoniously authenticity and modernity, the Château de Pondres wants to meet the requirements of comfort, functionality and wellbeing indispensable for an excellent hospitality.
With a variety of private dining rooms including the more intimate Musique Room and Reception Room, along with the larger Etats Généraux Room, there’s ample space to suit celebrations of all sizes. If you prefer, you can even hire exclusive use of the hotel for your event to ensure the utmost privacy.
Salle des repas
This former Arms Room is a beautiful arched room of 93 m². With natural light by three large openings, it overlooks the Court d’Honneur.
The chapel
Painting on canvas, animated by a deep symbolic carried by the Angels of the Annunciation. Blazons recalling the nobility of the owners of the Domaine “ecartelé du I et du III d’un lion d’or issant sur fond de gueules, du II et du IV de billettes d’or sur fond d’azur”. Altar fully restored.
États Généraux Room, Arts Rooms
Decorated with a magnificent chimney of carved stone and painted French ceilings, the Salle des Etats Généraux is a prestigious room, rich in the history of the Castle.
The Latin inscription of the pediment “Beatus non est esse qui non putat” bears witness to man’s ability to achieve his own happiness, the masterful motto of the Lords.
At dusk, sunsets on the Pic St Loup bathe the room with a golden light. With the adjacent Arts Room, the Etats Géréraux Room welcomes banquets and major events, in cold or humid seasons. Superb fallback solution for happy weddings, in rainy days!
Music Room, Reception Room, Library
An essential witness of the 18th and 19th centuries, the Music Room, the Reception Room as well as the Library are organized in a series in the south wing of the Castle. Confidential and friendly spaces, these spaces welcome drinks reception, preparation of the newlyweds or spaces for children.
Cour d’Honneur
A majestic area of 500m², the Cour d’Honneur overlooks the Park and offers stunning views of the basin, French fountains and gardens, romantic wedding in the open air and large spaces.
In the beautiful days, in the complicit shadow of old stones or under the sweetness of a beautiful star night, it is suitable for the organization of your private receptions, weddings, baptisms, family gatherings.
In the heart of the Castle, the Cour d’Honneur distributes the restaurant area, a Lounge Area and the Chapel. It can accommodate 200 guets in a banquet style and 300 guest in a stand-up dinning.
Park & Gardens
Built in terraces, offering benches and shade trellas near fountains, the landscaped gardens are organized for large receptions, banquets or drinks receptions.
The Castle’s Park, lined with a river, and its completely restored period paths, are the occasion for beautiful walks in the shade of centuries old trees in a perfect decor for your most beautiful wedding photos!
The Château de Pondres, a place to work, exchange and meet.
Ideally located between Nimes and Montpellier, the Château de Pondres offers a privileged setting for organizing professional events. Whether it’s for a seminar, training session, networking conference, company party, product launch, a full day or half a day, benefit from an exceptional setting and a dedicated team.
The Château de Pondres offers tailor-made events. A park of 15 hectares, lined with centenary trees, gardens, various rooms fully equipped and able to be made private, 10 hotel rooms, a swimming pool, bar, the courtyard and its terraces and a restaurant make it the ideal place to combine work and pleasure.
The Cévennes
Come and discover the Cévennes! A Beautiful landscape, nature in its raw state. Lovers of hiking, discovering history, canoeing … the Cévennes allow you to combine all of these activities.
The Grau du Roi
Pretty seaside town of the Gard region, The tourist destination of the Grau-du-Roi and Port Camargue are a hidden treasure where a beautiful wild beach awaits you.
The Grande-Motte
The Grande Motte, one of the most popular seaside resorts in the region. Beaches and various activities are to be discovered in the city of Hérault.
The Bambouseraie d’Anduze
The Bambouseraie d’Anduze (Prafrance), a rare site where natural bamboo is revealed in all its splendor. La Bambouseraie allows a visit full of freshness, a place to unwind in the foothills of the Cevennes.
The Arena of Nimes
Originally built to house bullfighting, The Arena of Nimes is a symbol of a city full of cultural and festive encounters. Between Féria, concerts and festivals, the Arena continues the traditions of the Gard region.
The Pont du Gard
A true showcase of the Gard region’s heritage. The Pont du Gard remains today one of the most beautiful Roman architectural achievements, the history of which dates back to a long time ago.
