Chateau De Blau | 5-Bedroom Chateau with Private Pool in Cerzat Ally

The Allier River carves through one of France’s most dramatically underrated regions, and Cerzat sits at its heart—a hamlet where medieval stone buildings overlook gorges that drop away to forests below. This is where Chateau De Blau anchors itself: a 15th-century fortress that has absorbed five centuries of history while somehow remaining a place where modern comfort doesn’t feel like an intrusion. Eleven guests, five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and the kind of scale that means no one trips over anyone else when the morning coffee runs out.

Inside Chateau De Blau

Chateau De Blau sleeps 11 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms distributed across four floors of carefully preserved stone and timber. The ground level sets the tone: a dining room with a working fireplace large enough to accommodate twelve people, its period proportions unchanged since the Blau family first built here in the 1400s. The kitchen sits adjacent, a deliberate contradiction—exposed stone walls frame a fully equipped modern space with an American fridge-freezer, dual coffee stations (both Jura and Nespresso machines), dishwasher, and electric hob. A single bedroom (12 square meters) branches off from the kitchen, useful for staff or parents wanting to be near the action. A separate laundry room and discrete WC complete the ground floor’s practical geography.

Climb to the first floor and the mood shifts. The living room sprawls across stone flagging with two substantial sofas—one converts into a bed for 160x200cm sleeping—and a decorative fireplace that actually works. An office nestled in an adjoining tower room includes a sink, small fridge, and its own WC; this is where someone inevitably escapes to take a work call or check emails when the rest of the group is playing cards. The library occupies its own space on this level, lined with books in multiple languages, board games stacked on shelves, a desk for anyone writing postcards home, and a billiard table for the competitive evenings that inevitably happen after wine flows.

The second floor hosts two substantial bedroom suites, each measuring 50 square meters. The first features a king-size bed (180x200cm), sitting area with armchairs, a desk, and a dressing zone flowing into a tower bathroom with shower, twin sinks, and independent WC. The second mirrors this layout with identical sleeping configuration, though its day bed accommodates an extra guest needing a quieter space. Both rooms capture light from multiple windows—the south-facing exposure means afternoon warmth and that particular quality of golden light that makes Auvergne afternoons feel suspended in time.

The third floor contains two more bedroom suites of equal size (50 square meters each). The first includes twin beds (90x200cm, configurable into a double), one single bed-sofa (80x90cm), a desk, and dressing area. The adjoining tower bathroom is notably generous: an Italian shower, full bath, twin sinks, and WC. The second suite on this floor follows similar proportions with twin beds that join to form a double, a single bed-sofa (80x190cm), small desk, and a large bathroom with bath, twin sinks, and WC. These upper rooms feel deliberately removed from the social spaces below—ideal for teenagers, in-laws, or anyone needing genuine separation from group activity.

Outdoor Spaces and Living

Step outside and the grounds expand dramatically across more than five acres (over two hectares). The heated swimming pool—4 meters wide by 12 meters long with a depth ranging from 1.2 to 1.5 meters—operates approximately May through late September. An electric safety cover means no worried head counts before bed. The pool house provides changing facilities and a discrete WC. Four sun-loungers face south toward the valley; this is where most guests drift through afternoon hours, moving only when shade requires relocation.

The courtyard dining area occupies a flagged expanse where dinner stretches until dusk, the conversation naturally quieting as light shifts toward amber. Beyond this sits a terrace furnished with benches and low tables—the aperitif hour location, where guests watch the sun descend behind the volcanic formations that ring the valley. A barbecue occupies one corner for grilled evening meals. The grounds themselves weave between ancient trees via narrow paths; natural features include a working well and a pond that reflects sky on still mornings. Table tennis and boules (pétanque) sets sit ready for less strenuous entertainment—the kind that produces competitive tournaments among adults who haven’t played seriously in decades.

Location: Cerzat and the Surrounding Area

Cerzat exists as a quiet hamlet in the Haute-Loire department of the Auvergne region, positioned along one of the Allier River’s most scenic stretches. The nearest village sits 4 kilometers away—a small settlement with a genuine French bistro and a summer Wednesday food market where locals and visiting families converge. Within walking distance stands a farm shop selling produce from the surrounding farms; this is where the morning bread and local cheese tradition begins.

Lavoûte-Chilhac, 8 kilometers south, transforms the region from passive viewing to active exploration. The village preserves a 15th-century stone bridge spanning the Allier, and its Paleontology Museum documents the region’s geological drama. This is the hub for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing—all organized through Chateau De Blau’s concierge service if desired. Langeac, 6.5 kilometers further downstream, marks the gateway to the Allier Gorges proper. Here, the river narrows dramatically, walls of rock rising hundreds of meters. The tourist train—running certain summer days between Langeac and Langogne—follows the gorge floor, a different perspective from the water itself.

Brioude (24 kilometers north) represents the region’s cultural anchor. The Basilique Saint-Julien de Brioude dominates the town center—a Romanesque structure with Byzantine mosaics that few international visitors ever encounter. Saturday mornings bring a bustling market through the old narrow streets; summer evenings feature music concerts in the squares. The town’s galleries and craft studios occupy medieval buildings in winding lanes that reward wandering.

Le Puy-en-Velay, 42 kilometers from Chateau De Blau, rises dramatically from the surrounding plateau. The Romanesque cathedral and the extraordinary Rocher Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe—a needle of volcanic rock crowned by a small chapel—define the skyline. This is the traditional starting point for pilgrims walking the Santiago de Compostela route, meaning the town breathes a particular spiritual atmosphere, especially in summer months. Medieval lace shops line the pedestrian streets; the town’s economic history intertwines with lace production from the 15th century onward.

For broader perspective, the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d’Auvergne sprawls 95 kilometers west toward Clermont-Ferrand. The Puy de Dôme—the region’s most famous peak—can be accessed by train from the visitor center or on foot for those with three hours and sturdy legs. Hot-air balloon flights departing from nearby sites offer the most dramatic approach, drifting above the volcanic landscape at sunrise. Lavaudieu (19 kilometers) holds the designation of one of France’s most beautiful villages (‘Plus Beaux Villages de France’), positioned on the banks of the Senouire River near an 11th-century Benedictine abbey. Blesle, 46 kilometers away, echoes this beauty with charming riverbanks and bridges preserved from the medieval period.

For destination inspiration and detailed travel planning, explore our luxury villas in Europe, browse our villas in the Rhone-Alpes region, and review our full collection of luxury properties in France. For comprehensive regional context, consult our Rhone-Alpes travel guide, which details seasonal activities, restaurant recommendations, and cultural events throughout the Auvergne.

Who This Villa Suits Best

Chateau De Blau works exceptionally for multi-generational family groups where space and privacy matter equally. Grandparents, adult children, teenagers, and smaller children can inhabit different floors without tension. The pool entertaining younger guests while adults read in the library is the practical reality here.

Groups of friends—particularly those who’ve known each other for decades—find the layout ideal. The dining room accommodates twelve. The billiard table, board games, and outdoor games ensure evening entertainment. Someone inevitably discovers cooking talent and collaborates with the available chef service; others organize river trips or cycling outings.

Couples seeking space beyond a master bedroom appreciate the library, office, and multiple terraces. The heated pool in shoulder seasons (May, September) becomes a private experience. The region itself—quiet villages, accessible nature, minimal tourist infrastructure—appeals to those seeking genuine France rather than Côte d’Azur crowds.

Active families benefit from the river access, marked hiking trails departing from the village 4 kilometers away, and organized activities (mountain biking, electric bike hire, fishing) available through local providers. The babysitter service (English-speaking) allows parents brief escapes; the chef service means elaborate family dinners without anyone cooking.

Practical Information

Chateau De Blau accommodates 11 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The five-acre grounds include a heated swimming pool, multiple terraces, and gardens. The nearest airport is Lyon-Saint Exupéry, approximately 110 kilometers away, requiring roughly 90 minutes by car. Transfers can be arranged through the villa’s concierge service.

The nearest supermarket sits on the edge of Langeac (6.5 kilometers). The village 4 kilometers away hosts a Wednesday summer market and a year-round farm shop. Daily maid service is included in rental terms. Breakfast, packed lunches, and home-cooked dinners can be arranged using locally-sourced ingredients; a curated French wine list supplements the kitchen. An English-speaking babysitter is available for families with young children. Wi-Fi operates throughout most of the property, with ethernet internet access in all rooms for reliable connectivity.

Check-in and check-out times are flexible and arranged directly based on arrival/departure flight times. The property is heated for cooler months; the pool operates approximately May through end-September.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chateau De Blau

How many guests does Chateau De Blau sleep?

Chateau De Blau sleeps a maximum of 11 guests across 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. The bedroom breakdown: one single bedroom (12 square meters), two 50-square-meter king-bedded suites on the second floor, and two 50-square-meter suites on the third floor featuring twin beds that convert to doubles plus additional single beds. The first-floor living room contains a sofa-bed (160x200cm) which can accommodate one additional guest if required.

What is the nearest airport to Chateau De Blau in Cerzat?

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is the nearest major international airport, approximately 110 kilometers from Chateau De Blau. The drive typically requires 90 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Transfers can be arranged through the villa’s concierge service. For travelers preferring regional flights, Clermont-Ferrand Airport lies approximately 95 kilometers away, roughly 75 minutes by car.

What is the best time of year to rent Chateau De Blau?

May through September offers ideal conditions: the heated pool operates, daytime temperatures range from 18-25°C (64-77°F), and outdoor activities peak. June and September provide warm weather with fewer summer crowds. Spring (April-May) brings wildflower blooms and lighter vegetation along hiking trails. Summer (July-August) brings warmth but also increased tourist activity in nearby towns. October remains viable for those comfortable with cooler temperatures (8-15°C / 46-59°F) and the dramatic autumn light that suits photography. Winter visits are possible but require heating reliance and the pool remains closed.

Is Chateau De Blau suitable for families with children?

Yes, the property accommodates families well. The heated pool (1.2-1.5 meters deep with electric safety cover) provides secure water access for supervised children. Multiple ground-floor bedrooms allow parents to remain nearby. The farm shop 4 kilometers away carries child-friendly provisions. An English-speaking babysitter is available for parents wanting evening freedom. The grounds’ open layout, boules and table tennis games, and nearby village accommodate children effectively. However, the property lacks direct beach access; river activities (canoeing, rafting) at Lavoûte-Chilhac or Langeac suit older children with supervision.

What is included in the rental price at Chateau De Blau?

The rental includes daily maid service, heating, Wi-Fi throughout most rooms, ethernet internet in all rooms, linen and towels, pool heating (during operating season: approximately May through September), use of all outdoor recreational equipment (billiard table, boules, table tennis), and access to the library and board games. Optional services available for additional cost include breakfast preparation, home-cooked meals using local ingredients, chef services, babysitting, airport transfers, and activity organization (fishing trips, bike hire, hot-air balloon rides, guided excursions).

What restaurants and shops are near Chateau De Blau?

A farm shop sits within walking distance in the hamlet. The village 4 kilometers away contains a French bistro and hosts a Wednesday summer food market. Langeac (6.5 kilometers) features supermarkets on its outskirts, plus cafés and restaurants. Lavoûte-Chilhac (8 kilometers) offers restaurants, food shops, and cafés. Brioude (24 kilometers), the region’s cultural hub, contains numerous restaurants ranging from casual bistros to more formal dining, plus bakeries, markets, and specialty food shops. The chef service available through Chateau De Blau often sources ingredients from these local markets and vendors.