A visit to the Chateau!

We woke to some rain this morning, which was a worry with river levels, but thankfully early in the morning it subsided. After some time down in the wellness area (on the treadmill and in the salt room) we enjoyed room service for breakfast.

 

After breakfast, we hopped on the coach for the hour’s trip to the Chateau de Cormatin - a 17th century palace, which originally had threee wings but one was demolished during the 19th century. It was bought in a derelict state in 1980 and has been lovingly restored by three uni friends who pooled their money for the purchase after completing their Art-History studies. They have since bought another Chateau, we learned, and spend their time living and working between the two. In fact we actually saw two working onsite today.

Originally it was owned by a family of nobility - the 35 year old nobleman choosing his 13 year old bride well. From memory, our guide informed us she was the daughter of the Minister for Finance or something similar at least. Inside she had her own apartment as did he, as they lived separately, although did bring up a family.

We were led through separate sections of the massive chateau, and the stunning gardens, which in 1980 were nothing like they now are. 

Even the moat was dug out by these owner friends. 

Inside the decor was amazing. The living room was full of books, artworks and all things that helped one appreciate the beauty of God’s creation.

Other rooms featured amazing fireplaces, artworks, furniture of the time and lots of gold on the walls and ceilings.

Then we entered the young bride’s apartment where she spent her days with her attending maid, and of course the children when they arrived.

 

His apartment was decorated in darker colours and full of curiosities, the gold illuminated beasutifully under the flicker of candlelight.

The kitchen area was again impressive... 

Over the years the palace was home to performances of all sorts including operas and many famous people performed there including Dame Nellie Melba. The guest bedroom was sumptuous as was the private chapel. 

Our last stop was an area dedicated to the story of the owners’ renovation and featured models and photos of before and after the work they have done.

Finally we had to bid farewell to the chateau and return to the ship, where we enjoyed a light lunch in the lounge with a couple - Gaye and Kevin from Perth, who are seasoned cruisers and lots of fun.

After lunch Gaye and I did the long bike ride along the banks of the Saone, while Kevin and Jules decided three hours on the bike was a bit much, so they opted for a short cycle instead and then minded a spot for us on the top deck so that we had drinks awaiting us on our  return.