Martillac, Chateau Smith Haute Lafite

Pessac- Leognan & Martillac, Bordeaux

Words:  Kirsten Durward    Photos: Monica Tindall

During our wonderful weekend residing at the Chateau Fieuzal near Leognan, south of Bordeaux, we were able to snatch a few hours to discover what other delights the surrounding countryside held. It’s hard to move far in this part of France without viewing a chateau, and our first lunch stop at Le Manège also afforded us pretty views of the Chateau de Leognan. Current owners Phillipe and Chantal Miecaze have lovingly restored the buildings and the estates, recreating a producing winery, and offering a charming bed and breakfast.

top attractions Leognon
Chateau Leognon

Le Manège is a well-recommended restaurant by locals in the area. When we visited there was a large lunch party and that evening’s dinner was completely booked out so we retired to the garden area with a large platter of cheese and cold cuts, Monica enjoying a glass of the Bordeaux rose and me choosing the Graves sauvignon Semillon blend. It’s a really pretty spot that I would love to return to.

Chateau Leognon
Le Manège Restaurant, Chateau Leognon
Chateau Leognon
Outdoor Seating Area
Chateau Leognon
Cold Cuts, Cheeses and Local Wine

Our second outing was rather grander as we wandered into one of the spectacular Chateau of the Martillac area, Smith Haut Lafite. Despite the sprinkling of rain, the vast number of photogenic spots on offer was just too tempting, and we spent some time exploring this property. Smith Haut Lafite has a sister hotel and spa ‘Les Sources de Caudalie’ with two restaurants and a wine bar. We need to hear no more, as it’s our absolute duty to investigate what they have to offer.

Martillac, Chateau Smith Haute Lafite
Entrance to the Chateau
Les Sources de Caudalie
Chateau Smith Haute Lafite
Les Sources de Caudalie
Vineyards of Chateau Smith Haute Lafite
Les Sources de Caudalie
Chateau Smith Haute Lafite
Les Sources de Caudalie
Chateau Smith Haute Lafite
Les Sources de Caudalie
Chateau Smith Haute Lafite

Our efforts are rewarded by the discovery of a stunning five star hotel in a delightful lakeside setting. We enjoy the Table D’Hote menu in the light and airy brasserie, La Table du Lavoir, with highlights being the Asparagus Velouté and Tuna Tartar. This is exceptionally elegant food with delicate yet true flavours. I would definitely make a detour for this if I were again in the area.

Les Sources de Caudalie
Carpaccio
Les Sources de Caudalie
White Asparagus Velouté
Les Sources de Caudalie
Fish and Vegetables
Les Sources de Caudalie
Fish
Les Sources de Caudalie
Duck
Les Sources de Caudalie
Passionfruit Chocolate Dessert

Reasons to visit the area: chateau visits, wine tasting, delicious food, and it’s very pretty!

Pessac Leognan

http://chateauleognan.fr/chateau_leognan_en.html

http://www.lemanege-leognan.fr/

Martillac

http://www.smith-haut-lafitte.com/en/

http://www.sources-caudalie.com/

8 Comments

  1. Picturesque, the little lake and the wooden house on stilts. Very nice. Dessert sure looks like a killer, yum yummm!!!!

  2. Really a gorgeous and inviting place to stay and/or have a meal! The cheeses look divine and the presentations are very nice.

  3. Wow…I love the looks of the expertly prepared fish dishes (with crispy skin)….and that asparagus veloute is pretty as a picture! 😉

  4. Oh my goodness!!! These photos take my breath away 🙂 You are absolutely
    spoiling us with this selection of castles, all very beautiful – I love these places full of history!

  5. Both the place and food look great! Beautiful lake and I like the building with the plants growing up the wall. The food and desserts are so delicious looking.

  6. i’m really drawn to the food here, with its vibrant use of great produce! 🙂

  7. Love everything about it! How long were you there, Monica? Looks like you’re never coming back. Hahaha! xoxo

  8. The timber house on stilts in your first photo reminded me of our kampung house.
    Homesick now! 😉

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