Overall: Outstanding magnificent experience. Each member was very pleased with the chateau. It was styled after Versailles Palace and in it's own grandeur it stood as we approached it from the country road. Everyone in our group agreed that we would come back again to this chateau. Enjoyed Most: The grandeur of the chateau and the surrounding property. Should also say that the interior furnishings are magnificent antiques. The kitchen is modern, well equipped and large enough for all who wish to take part in preparing the dinner or just drink the French wines and chat. The bathrooms are all very modern and spacious. Surrounding Area: The chateau is located on 350 acres. Great for walking, hiking, running, etcBikes are available, and some outdoor games are provided in the activities room of the chateau.Small charming nearby towns to visit. Nearby Events or Locales: The very near town of Courtomer, (one could walk to town) was small but had a well-stocked grocery store, (Carrfour grocery chain) two bakeries, a butcher and one restaurant. The store owners are very pleasant. The owner of the restaurant closed his small restaurant so that on Sunday evening he could cook dinner for our group in a private dining room. Tips or Restaurants: Nothing to bring, very well-equipped We wanted to go to the beaches at Normandy and that is a two hour drive. Well worth the drive but set out early because it is a whole day trip to see all the beaches and monuments. Quite touching and not to be missed. We loved the chateau so much that it was a wonderful place to come home to after being out all day sightseeing. The Loire Valley is an hour and a half away but again worth the time if you like to sample the wines of the Loire Valley. Directions: When traveling we all used a GPS system. They are great and will take you straight to the center of town, Courtomer, or directly to the entrance of the chateau. The written directions from the center of town were easy to understand and they also took you straight to the chateau. Very, very dark so we suggest you arrive in the day light Check In Out: Check in and check out are wonderful--no problems. Just enjoy and relax because you will be overwhelmed by the size and grandeur of the chateau. Check in with Francine the caretaker was smooth and pleasant. She does not speak a word of English but because of her warm smile and friendly, helpful personality we understood everything. I loved her because she is "part of the chateau experience". When we left she came out to say goodbye, "Bonne route". So nice.