A Château Noël

(4 nights at Château de Gudanes)

Embrace the festive season as the Château becomes a sanctuary of gentle anticipation

Date: 5 - 9 December 2026

Price: €3,200 per person

The Noël Atelier is an invitation to step into the Christmas festivities at Château de Gudanes. Over four nights, gather beneath candlelight to create beautiful heirlooms by hand, share and create long festive meals together, discover the art of delicate champagne jellies and other seasonal delicacies in historic moulds, learn traditional crafts from local artisans, and embrace the slow and gentle rhythm of the season.

Inspired by the craftsmanship and traditions of Christmases past, this atelier includes a range of activities thoughtfully designed to create meaningful and memorable treasures to take home and share around your own table, hang upon your Christmas tree or weave into your own traditions with your family and friends. As a group we shall even make a wreath to be placed upon the Château’s front gates! 

THE EXPERIENCE

Whether you are discovering a new craft for the very first time or are an accomplished maker, spend your days creating in the warmth of the Château, with a cup of fragrant mulled wine or rich French hot chocolate never far from reach.

Highlights of the Noël Atelier include:

• Hand embroider exquisite Christmas ornaments inspired by the intricate details of the 18th Century Salon de Musique.

• Create beautifully scented candles using the Château's original fragrance recipe from the 18th Century.

• Discover the ancient art of illuminated manuscripts as you design heirloom Christmas cards inspired by the Château Chapel.

• Craft your own traditional Christmas crackers, each filled with a carefully chosen antique keepsake.

• Learn to prepare elegant Champagne jellies with our Château chefs using antique copper jelly moulds.

• Bake a selection of festive favourites, including gingerbread cookies, traditional fruit mince pies and French tarte Tatin.

Each workshop celebrates the joy of making by hand, allowing you to return home with a stocking filled with Château memories!

The Rhythm of Château Life

This intimate Christmas Atelier welcomes a small group of guests, allowing each stay to unfold at a gentle pace with thoughtful attention, warmth and a true sense of belonging reflecting the love and spirit of the festive season.

While the experience may include carefully curated activities and special moments, the greatest pleasure lies simply in being here — wandering through centuries of history, discovering the quiet beauty of the gardens, and embracing the peaceful and elegant rhythm of life within the Château.

guest quarters

Each Château bedroom welcomes you with antique beds dressed in vintage monogrammed linens, ruffled pillows, and floral sheets. Antique furnishings and heirlooms lend a refined, historic feel. Large windows frame sweeping views of the mountains and valleys.

Rooms are arranged for two guests (or three by request), with solo travellers paired thoughtfully—or given a private room if space allows. Each bedroom offers up to 70m² (775 ft²) of comfort and privacy.

Each guest shall be welcomed with their own antique, French double bed. Couples enjoy a king bed and private bedroom.

Electric blankets and heated radiators in each room shall be provided for warmth and comfort.

salle de bains

Château bathrooms blend 18th-century elegance with modern comfort, featuring classic fixtures, floral wallpaper, and plush towels.

Due to historic preservation rules, ensuite bathrooms aren’t permitted. To protect original interiors, all bathrooms are shared—but beautifully appointed. Each includes a shower, toilet, and basin; one features a freestanding bath for added indulgence. Bathrooms are located on the ground floor, along with two powder rooms (one upstairs, one down) for added convenience.

A nearby dressing area offers soft lighting, comfortable seating, and a vanity—ideal for hair, makeup, or quiet moments of preparation.

DINING

At the Château, winter dining becomes a celebration of the festive season — a time of warmth, generosity and joyful gatherings shared around the table. Each day brings a new culinary experience, from leisurely breakfasts with freshly baked viennoiserie and seasonal delicacies to festive feasts inspired by centuries-old French traditions, and elegant candlelit dinners adorned with evergreen garlands and the soft glow of Christmas.

Inspired by the flavours and customs of the French Pyrenees, the Château chefs create menus that celebrate the abundance of winter, bringing together locally sourced ingredients, cherished Christmas recipes and the timeless elegance of French cuisine. From comforting meals shared in the spirit of togetherness to refined festive dining showcasing regional specialities, every dish is thoughtfully prepared to capture the warmth, magic and enchantment of Christmas at the Château.

Our team is attentive to various dietary preferences and allergies, so don't hesitate to share any special requests or requirements.

A private selection of wines, sparkling wines, aperitifs, liquors, and refreshing beverages are offered during meals, including soft drinks, water, and our Chateau-made signature botanical syrups.

For those who enjoy a warm drink, we also offer a dedicated tea and coffee station through the day. Feel free to help yourself, just as you would in the comfort of your own home.

ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE

Your château atelier begins with a warm welcome from midday. We invite you to arrive at Château de Gudanes from 12 noon, allowing you time to settle into your rooms, explore the château and begin embracing the gentle rhythm of your stay. A leisurely luncheon shall then be served at 1:00 pm, marking the beginning of our time together at the Château.

At the conclusion of your stay, we kindly ask guests to depart following breakfast, with check-out by 12 noon.

To ensure a seamless journey, our team is delighted to help assist with arranging transport to and from the Château. The nearest train station is located in the village, and we can assist with collection upon your arrival. Or, we can organise a private driver direct to the Château should you prefer a more tailored travel experience.

INCLUSIONS & amenities

The Christmas Atelier includes:

• Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts) prepared by Chefs de Cuisine. Please kindly note: lunch and dinner only on the first day and breakfast only on the last day.

• Unlimited Château beverages, including wine, spirits, local beer, and non-alcoholic options served with all meals.

• Double-occupancy accommodation (or triple-occupancy upon request) with shared bathroom access.

• All activities as per the itinerary for a curated experience.

• Full use of Château amenities, including tennis, pickle ball, and Wi-Fi available in shared spaces.

• Self serve laundry facilities.

  Please note: transport to and from the Château, flights, personal expenses, and travel insurance are not included.

payment & TRAVEL INSURANCE

To book, a 30% deposit is required via credit card in Euros. The remaining balance is due 30 days before your stay, with a payment link sent prior. You are able to pay in instalments, at your discretion, prior to the final payment date.

Full payment is required for bookings within 30 days of your selected stay.

Travel insurance is required for all guests.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

We kindly ask that you follow the link here to view the important terms and conditions of staying at Château de Gudanes and being part of the Christmas Atelier. Please note that by booking a place you are agreeing with these terms and conditions laid out.

MERCI BEAUCOUP

Should you you require any further information please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email at experience@chateaugudanes.com