Nestled on a sun-dappled hillside above Chambéry, the 14th-century Château de Candie is a fortified manor turned boutique hotel that feels plucked from the pages of a storybook.
From the moment we were collected from Geneva Airport, Brice our driver handed us a chilled glass of champagne and small picnic for the scenic hour-long drive.
Built by the noble Candie family, allies of the House of Savoy, Château de Candie has passed through centuries of aristocratic ownership. In the 17th century, it belonged to Piedmontese merchant Jean André Sarde, and later to Caroline de Saint Séverin, whose family resided there for over sixty years. The turret- now a romantic honeymoon suite has served as a dovecote, chapel, and artist’s studio.
In 1990, antique collector Didier Lhostis led a four-year restoration, preserving the château’s historic character while adding elegant interiors and whimsical touches. Since 2016, Purple Summer has transformed it into a four-star luxury retreat.
Set above Chambéry’s eight hamlets, the château offers panoramic views of the Chartreuse mountains and Dent du Chat. Its six-hectare park features century-old trees, fountains, floral borders, and a revived vineyard producing Candie 1891 Viognier on calcareous slopes. The grounds are pristine – perfect for quiet reflection or leisurely strolls, with butterflies, bees, and mountain vistas completing the scene.
Hospitality is deeply personal here. Katie, the general manager, was warm, intuitive, and ever-present. Her passion for the château was infectious, and every member of staff reflected the same gracious, generous spirit that makes this place quietly magical.
The château offers 25 individually styled rooms and suites, each named after historical figures and adorned with antiques, plush fabrics, and curated artwork. Our Junior Suite was palatial, approximately 60 square metres with a separate dressing area, velvet settee, antique writing desk, and a marble-clad bathroom with the largest marble bath I have seen together with a separate shower and L’Occitane toiletries. Amenities included a minibar, kettle and Nespresso machine, all tucked discreetly into antique cabinetry.
The turret suite, La Tour de la Duchesse, is a triplex spread across three floors, with a spiral staircase linking a salon, bedroom, and bathroom. It’s a favourite for romantics, evoking unmistakable “Beauty and the Beast” vibes
Dinner at La Cantine, the château’s bistronomic restaurant, was unforgettable. Head Chef Badara Gueye, a Senegalese talent, masterfully fuses classic French techniques with African spices and alpine ingredients. Each dish was a work of art – from delicate fish ceviche, river char with fennel to a steak that melted like butter. His passion for painting is reflected in the presentation, and while his artworks usually adorn the château, they were on exhibition at a nearby gallery during my visit.
Breakfast is served in a rustic dining room or on the terrace, a generous spread of local meats pastries, and seasonal fruit. The cheeses were standout – creamy, full of character and perfect and even more so with a glass of wine.
The château offers its own charm with
- Champagne & Oyster Bar: A design marvel within La Cantine, featuring a chandelier made of inverted champagne flutes. It’s the perfect spot for apéritifs with views of the Croix du Nivolet and Bauges massif.
- Whisky Bar: Tucked behind reception, this cosy, club-like lounge invites guests to sink into deep armchairs by a crackling fireplace, with a curated selection of international whiskies and Savoie wines.
- With a pool nestled in the gardens, flanked by white beach towels and honesty bar. A small gym onsite and massage services are available on request.
Living the Château Life – vineyards, views and events
Guests are invited to dine at Le Lido during warmer months where their lakeside terrace becomes a stage for long, leisurely lunches and sunset cocktails. Le Lido situated on Lake Bourget , France’s largest freshwater lake is part of Purple Summers curated portfolio and was a sensory celebration of Savoie’s finest produce. Velvet chairs, marble tables, and sweeping lake views created a theatrical setting. Post-lunch cocktails and lakeside lounging completed the experience.
Resident sommelier Raphael Diatta offers a wine tasting masterclass. Having trained in Burgundy his exception knowledge and enthusiasm made for a fantastic experience. Unfortunately because of the weather it was held indoors but this had the benefit of offering a broader selection of wines and lively insights to the region. On our final day we were treated to a vineyard picnic complete with champagne, local delicacies, set amongst the vines with views of the mountains in the back ground – pure indulgence.
With various outdoor adventures that can be arranged including paddleboarding, sailing, hiking, and climbing in the Savoie region. For something truly unforgettable, the château can arrange private sightseeing flights over the Swiss and Italian peaks.
Château de Candie is a sought-after venue for weddings and events. The Salle des Glaces hosts up to 180 guests, while the Grilles and Château salons suit meetings and receptions. All spaces are bathed in natural light and offer scenic views.
Though close to Chambéry and the motorway, the château feels blissfully secluded. With its tranquil grounds, gourmet dining, and heartfelt hospitality, it’s a hidden gem that often turns a stopover into a cherished memory.
Château de Candie is more than a hotel—it’s a living narrative of elegance, warmth, and timeless charm. Every detail, from antique key fobs to handpicked wine pairings, reflects a team deeply devoted to guest experience. It’s a place where time slows, senses awaken, and memories linger.
As we waved goodbye under the golden afternoon sun, the vines glowing in its light, we knew we’d return.
Nightly rates start at €200 (B&B), with exclusive hire from €15,000. Contact Bienvenue au Château de Candie à Chambéry en Savoie