We bookended a 2 week camping trip near Paris with 2 nights in Domaine de Vadancourt. It was a few weeks before we were due to set off and I suggested it might be nice to stop and experience a proper bathroom before heading onwards for two weeks in a canvas bungalow. I initially found this place on the Gites de France website but unable to complete a booking, I decided to email Caroline and Gaetan directly. They were extremely accommodating and all was booked after a quick paypal deposit. A good first impression indeed.
On arrival at the Chateau, we were greeted by Fabien as the proprietors were away on holiday. Fabien was a lovely chap and very amenable. We attempted small talk (more gestures and smiles) whilst he showed us our room (Oncle Alex I think?) This is a pleasant room with a balcony overlooking the grounds.
We took a stroll around the lake and spotted what looked like some rather large carp basking in the shallows to the right of the bridge. If only I had a rod with me! During our walk it became apparent that the local mosquito population were busily draining us of blood. You've got to hand it to them, they're efficient. The lake and grounds are truly stunning and the view back up towards the chateau is one I will not forget in a hurry!
I implore you to take mosquito repellent though!
Afterwards we got ready and headed into St Quentin for dinner (via Auchan and a wine stop). Glasses for wine are provided outside the rooms so a little tip is to bring a bottle with you if you will want a drink at the hotel.
Breakfast was a leisurely affair the next day with plenty to chose from. The croissants were particularly fresh and light, and the little pots of preserves were delicious.
We stopped on the way back fpr a night also and arguably had an even better nights stay. The room (I think it was Tante Dorite) was just superb. Beautiful. It drew a "wow" from both of us as we entered. Really classical and just what you'd expect walking into a building such as this.
For our final evening we dined in a restaurant called Villa D'Isle in St Quentin. I can wholeheartedly recommend it, although not based in the main square, the food and the ambience inside more than made up for it.
In short, it's highly likely we will be back, probably many times over the years as it is in an ideal spot on a journey we take often. Recommended.