All photos by © Joann Pai
Welcome to our new series: Destination France!
Each month we will share an in-depth feature on one of our favorite hotels or guesthouses from around France to help you feel right at home the minute you arrive. First up, we’re sharing our feature from the March/April 2025 issue on Château de la Treyne in the Dordogne region.
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Perched on the banks overlooking the tranquil Dordogne river, the historic Château de la Treyne is more than a luxurious escape — it’s a window into centuries of history, craftsmanship and the intimate devotion of its caring owners.
The Hotel’s History
Château de la Treyne has a history as rich and layered as the Dordogne region itself. Originally built in 1342, the estate has witnessed the ebb and flow of French history. The Wars of Religion left the original castle in ruins when it was set ablaze in the 16th century, but by 1643, under King Louis XIII, it was restored, blending the sturdiness of its medieval design with the elegance of Renaissance taste. Over the centuries, ownership passed through a series of noble families, each of whom left their marks through architectural additions and renovations.
By the 20th century, the estate had fallen into disrepair. It was Auguste-Gabriel Savard, an industrialist and inventor, who began the revival of La Treyne, in 1910. He enlisted one of the best French landscape architects of the time, Edouard André, to design the grounds and the French formal garden in the 1920s. After Savard, a Spanish industrialist bought the estate and contributed impressive woodworks that still grace the château’s Great Lounge and Music Lounge. Interestingly, during World War II, the château even safeguarded treasures from the Louvre, including the famed Squatting Scribe. This noble act earned it recognition as a protected site in 1946.
The Hotel Today
The owners today are none other than Philippe Gombert — the former president of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux hotel group — and his wife, Stéphanie. The couple purchased the estate more than 40 years ago, and have poured their hearts into preserving and enhancing it. (La Treyne joined the Relais & Châteaux portfolio in 1992.)
Indeed, every element of Château de la Treyne reflects the owners’ hands-on approach to hospitality: Philippe handles restoration projects with local contractors, while Stéphanie channels her creative vision into the décor, ensuring that each of the 18 rooms — including seven unique suites — exudes its own authentic style.
Every space is a unique storybook, where antique furnishings, intricate tapestries and warm lighting coalesce to create an atmosphere that balances historic charm with thoughtful, modern comforts. Guests often remark on the feeling of stepping into another era, albeit one with all the conveniences of contemporary luxury.
The Hotel Staff
As for the day-to-day operations, Stéphanie explains that the château is an exceptional place because of its devoted staff of 36 — some of whom have been with the hotel for well over a decade. The team’s longevity is a point of pride for the owners. “We wouldn’t be much without them,” she emphasizes.
From their receptionist of 19 years to their resident gardener and chambermaid — each of 16 years — this rare commitment is something to behold.
The Hotel Grounds & Cuisine
Surrounded by 120 hectares (300 acres) of private parkland and forest, the estate is a sanctuary for both guests and wildlife. The numerous paths allow for endless enjoyable walks, during which even the owners’ loyal golden retriever displays generous hospitality, accompanying the guests through the grounds.
The manicured French garden decorated with Medici vases invites quiet contemplation, while the organic vegetable garden — complete with free-range chickens and pigs — supplies the château’s acclaimed kitchen. Here, the Michelin-starred chef Stéphane Andrieux and his team have been crafting menus that use the local produce to celebrate the flavors of the Périgord since 2001, while Marc Jean, the head pastry chef, has been whipping up his sweet confections since 1995.
The Hotel Happenings
In the Dordogne Valley, La Treyne also plays a vital cultural role. Throughout the year, the estate hosts concerts, art exhibitions and theatrical performances, often in collaboration with the region’s many festivals.
These events draw both locals and international visitors. Stéphanie remarks that about half of the hotel’s guests hail from France, while the other half includes travelers from Switzerland, England, the United States and an increasing number from South America.
Stay at Château de la Treyne
For Stéphanie and Philippe, their work is more than a profession; it’s a labor of love. Their dedication to preserving Château de la Treyne’s heritage while embracing innovation ensures it will continue to welcome many generations to come.
Next time you are in France, you must considering booking a stay at the cozy Château de la Treyne hotel in Dordogne.
Open from April to November!