I originally visited Chateau du Sureau, a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux family, in the Fall of 2014 and was very impressed with this luxurious property (see review here). When I had the opportunity to visit the property again, a few months later in December, I didn’t hesitate to make my reservation.
Located in the Northern Califorinia Sierra Foothills, it was a little chillier on this visit but the property took on a magical feel as it was fully adorned for the holidays.
As I entered the chateau living room, I was greeted by a roaring fire with stockings hanging from the mantel like something out of a storybook. I almost expected to see my name embroidered on one of them.
A 15′ Christmas tree was placed in the elevated alcove, jeweled with a bevy of shiny ornaments. The tree standing tall next to the piano felt like an invitation to come up and sing Christmas carols. A beautiful photograph of Ms. Erna Kubin-Clanin, the chateau owner, and her mother add a personal touch.
I had the good fortune of staying in one the most requested rooms, the Elderberry room. This second-story, corner room has a small balcony overlooking the beautiful foothills, pool and Erna’s Elderberry House Restaurant.
The room is romantic with a stunning European antique canopy bed draped with rich fabric panels. As with my last visit, I was so impressed with the cleanliness of the room and the crisp white, fresh linens that just beg for you to jump into bed.
With a chill in the air, I immediately lit a fire, turned on the built-in sound system and played the chateau’s custom classical CD as I cozied up in one of the chairs in front of the fireplace with the afternoon tea and snacks that were delivered to the room.
The room offers a spacious en-suite bathroom with luxurious robes, a soaking tub and L’Occitane amenities.
The lovely chateau is a complete luxurious experience on its own but a very integrated part of this experience here is the option of an exquisite dinner at Erna’s Elderberry House Restaurant.
Erna’s career began as a chef so the restaurant is a very important aspect to her when it comes to the experience at the Estates at the Elderberries. Erna no longer is the main chef but Chef Jonathan Perkins is doing an amazing job in coming up with creative menus and executing the dishes to perfection.
The atmosphere in the restaurant is elegant and sophisticated. The pre-fixe menu changes daily and is a “foodies” delight. The option of a wine pairing is offered with each meal.
One of my favorite memories from my first visit was being woken up by the delicious aroma of breakfast cooking, and this visit was no different. A generous breakfast of a cooked egg dish along with a cereal bar and fruits and cheese platter is included daily.
I can can honestly say that I was as impressed, if not more, on my second stay at Chateau du Sureau. This is an exquisite property perfect for a romantic getaway, a birthday celebration, a small family reunion and/or a fairytale wedding.
If you would like more information on this property or would like me to help you arrange a stay here, please feel free to contact me so we can create your fairytale story
Love this property.
It’s truly a hidden gem!
This is very beautiful Susan.
Thanks Ruby.
Hi Susan, I’m enjoying your on-line magazine…love the look. This property is gorgeous, the photographs are enticing!