355825 5 Location 520118 <p>We spent two days at the Chateau D’Isle Marie, which is a bed and breakfast, but so much more!!! The minute that we drove through the gates we felt that we had entered another place and time. The property looks like a scene from Hansel and Gretel. The owners, Simon and Dorothea, met us as we drove up to the chateau. They are in their 40’s, and between them speak five different languages. The Chateau has been in his family for over 1,000 years. During the parlor time, drinks and conversation, Simon told the history of the Chateau. Although I couldn’t relate the events of 1,000 years, the Chateau has survived Norman invasions, the 100 years war, and World War II. </p><p>When we entered the foyer, we knew that we had entered a “grand” home. Every inch of the home has been decorated with beautiful antiques. The details are incredible, from the wallpaper , to the lighting, and everything in between. Our room was up a gazillion stairs. It was also decorated beautifully and had two large twin feather beds. Every tub in France is extremely deep and long; perfect for a long soak after a hard day of sightseeing. We also had two long windows that opened out to the expansive grounds. </p><p>A typical French breakfast was served in the massive dining room. Again every detail was perfect. We met other guests from Holland, Belgium, South Carolina, and Los Angeles. That night we had dinner in a separate building that is set just for dining. We walked along a path lit with lanterns to a rustic room lit with many candles and chandeliers. Our first course was artichoke soup with garlic and cheese croutons. Next we had lamb with grilled vegetables, on couscous. I had Maddie’s lamb and she was happy with the vegetables. We are always worried that we will eat too fast, so we try to slow down. The people from Holland ate twice as fast as we did! So we were off the hook and could eat at an “American” pace. In France the next course is always cheese. They bring a platter of different cheeses , usually between 6 and 8, and cut a little wedge for you to eat. By then, we were both really full, but we wanted to try the different cheeses but only chose three. Of course, the Dutch group had a ton of cheese and ate it all; and they are all skinny!!!! For dessert we had what seemed to be butter pecan ice cream, with 3 fresh cherries, and spun sugar on top. Fabulous!!</p><p>The next day we hated to leave and asked to be adopted, but the couple declined. It was such a beautiful, magical place and I can’t wait to go back again someday.</p> 2007-06-20T05:49:24-07:00 570426898 2007-06-19T17:00:00-07:00 0 -9223372036854775790 218531 4833557 355825 0 223724 0.130433419834422 2007-06-17T17:00:00-07:00 Published 50.0 2007-06-22T16:07:23-07:00 101571 0