Chateau De La Joie

Arriving at Château De La Joie is a joyous event in itself. As you wind your way through verdant, patchwork hills at the foot of the majestic Pyrénées mountains, your spirits are instantly lifted. Then curious anticipation sets in as you approach the small farming hamlet where a quaint country road rolls over a hill and leads to the entrance, where you start your way down the long, private drive. Here, you have already left the world behind, but nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of the château.

Sitting on a hill, surrounded by 360 degree views over beautiful countryside and the Pyrénées beyond, it is clear that this is a special place and a private retreat you will not want to leave.

The estate is made up of a superb 19th-century château, originally built as a shooting lodge, an adjoining 16th-century farm, two separate cottages and a splendid 12th-century chapel. Amongst the impressive six hectares of grounds, sublime statues by David William Ellis stand in silence and contemplate the views. Lawn gardens, flower pots and impressive trees adorn the extensive grounds with a private lake, which is often dressed in water-lilies.

Indoors the journey continues. Family portraits and memorabilia invite you to be part of this real family home, rich with warmth and joyous memories, which only a truly loved home could have. The elegant rooms are spacious and bright with beautiful views of the outdoors. There is plenty of room for friends and family to spend quality time together as well as lots of space to spread out. The new ‘disco room’ is the ultimate in family fun, with a bar, billiard table, dance floor and balcony with views of the Pyrénées.

This is the land of Cathars, an area full of beautiful hiking paths, ancient castles and market towns. A trip to the ruins of the Château de Montsegur, one of the last Cathar strongholds, should not be missed. Pamiers is only 10 minutes away and offers all amenities, whilst Foix, with its ancient castle and Mirepoix are a little further.

The Ariège is the flower garden of Europe offering 3000 species of flowers, 160 of which are unique to the area - a paradise for flower- and bird-watchers. Furthermore, the château is only 55 minutes from Ax Les-Thermes, a charming ski resort with a hot spring and hiking in the summer.

Château De La Joie is the perfect blend of refined and elegant accommodation, breathtaking scenery, history and rich family memories and it has generously opened its doors to new guests and their own memories.