Chateau d'Alteville

Have you ever pictured a chateau in the French country side? Well, we stayed in the most amazing place while in Metz visiting family. Set in the country between two villages sits Chateau d’Alteville. Owned by the Barthelemy family for generations. It is a 150 year old chateau with picturesque views and the most amazing family that takes care of you. David and his family roll out the red carpet for their visitors. We loved it so much we stayed an extra day. The house is amazing. Part of the chateau was built in the 1500’s and still has the portal holes that were used to protect it against invaders. The house has a rich history- occupied by David’s family for generations- it was once home to David’s great great grandfather that was a general in Napoleon’s army. He won a battle for Napoleon in Italy and in return Napoleon gave him a huge painting that now hangs in the salon. The house was also taken by the Germans during WWII and David’s grandmother was forced to leave with her 7 children. Thankfully the house was not destroyed, but they left the Germans left their mark for sure. The rooms were perfect- just like you would think. Cozy, warm, and full of history- in our room we had a painting that was painted in the 1800’s. The girl’s room had a canopy bed and was full of beautiful antiques. For breakfast each morning we sat down to the traditional French bread, homemade marabella jam, coffee and great conversation with travelers for England, Holland, and France. It was a real treat. David’s family all help out during the summer months so we were able to meet some of his nieces and nephews. The swans on the lake and the sun rising over the hills were breath taking. David was also an incredible wealth of information and helped us get our train tickets straightened out when we kept getting kicked off the internet by the Eurail people—Thank You David! If we ever come back to France (which we hope to do someday) we will definitely stay here again. It was so close to my family and a great get away after being in the hustle and bustle of Paris. Devyn and Blythe both wanted to move in  Of course they had a dog and cats  Thank you Barthelemy family for all your hospitality- we loved our time together.