Chateau de Montflour shows SA’s grit

Carel shares his views on how a French castle demonstrates the grit, humour, success and class of South Africans.

Chateau de Montflour is located in the commune of Tardes in the department of Creuse and the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region – basically right in the middle of France. As my friend Louis Jansen van Vuuren says – the air here is the purest you’ll find in all of this country.

In fact, I was first introduced to the Creuse by Louis and his partner Hardy who have lived here for a couple of decades. Their former business, La Creuzette, is well-known to many South Africans and has resulted in more than 30 Saffa families buying properties in the region. These vary from tiny studios to grand castles (if you missed the EasyEquities sponsored show on Via – Mooi Frankryk – check it out. Another good friend, the gorgeous and smart Anet Pienaar-Vosloo, takes us on a tour of some of these homes). I suspect Louis and Hardy are no strangers if you are reading these pages – we co-published a book “There’s a vegan on my verandah” in English, Afrikaans and French with them and they are always involved in new projects.

Montflour is the former seat of a lordship of Combraille dating partly from the 16th and 17th centuries with the latst last additions between 1880 and 1895 by Ludovic Souchard, a lawyer in the nearby large town of Montluçon. That is before my wonderful friends Christo and Elbe Lindeque* bought it.

Well-known South African entrepreneurs, the Lindeques were all set to retire three years ago. But that plan morphed into a dream of restoring Montflour, running an exclusive space for bespoke events and unique accommodation options. And since the Lindeques dream big, Montflour’s future is an exciting one.

So much of rural France is in ruins or on its way to total derelection. While property is often (very) cheap, the cost – and hard work – of restoring not only castles but also simple homes, puts off many. But in the Creuse, and indeed across the magnificent country called France, there are literally hundreds of South Africans restoring, creating and innovating. Many own shops, offer services and earn a good income to enable their stays here for months at a time.

I was lucky enough to visit Montflour two years ago. And although some work had been done then, most has happened in the interim. The sheer scope of work – made perhaps more daunting by language and cultural differences (which often are strengths once learnt and understood) – is phenomenal. And for me the Lindeques’ story – as successful entrepreneurs in South Africa and mad chateau owners in France – is a demonstration of our resilience and good humour as a country. Things may be hard (they often are). Things may be costly (don’t we all feel it?!) But there is no such thing as “impossible” – even when a French bureaucrat may say “NON!”.

The Lindeques’ castle is partially registered as a historical monument by a formal decree – and while that adds further complexity to restoration dreams, it also highlights the importance of what they are doing. And the gratitude the French owe these South Africans.

A few days spent at Montflour entails loads of amazing food. Wonderfully eclectic decor and style. Hidden spaces to chill. To explore. To recharge. Every need is anticipated and one can see how Elbe and Christo have channeled their own vast travel experience and needs whilst away from home into their offering.

Nightly bath delights. Luxurious bathroom amenities. Home-made culinary feasts – including “le braai!” Champagne and delectable wines. Games. Books. All in a castle and on grounds which provide a tranquil recharge. Three nights at Montflour felt like weeks at a spa. True tonic for one’s soul with surprises that Elbe and Christo take great delight in offering their guests.

if you find yourself in France – visit the Creuse and especially the village of Boussac. You’ll be astounded by the stunning South African people and businesses you encounter. And if you are looking for a unique, truly memorable place to make memories, drop Chateau Montflour an email elbe@capexc.com.