Château de Montflour: A bridge too far? Never!

By Colin Ford

Getting to Château de Montflour may take a bit of time – and more than a few transport changes – but the journey is worth every minute! Especially if you get to spend a week there, literally in a centuries-old castle, playing bridge with a group of divine ladies who are upbeat, positive about life, fun and happy to guide you when you make a blaps on the bridge table.

Everything about the castle is sumptuous, from the vibrant décor to the sprawling grounds. All you need is at your fingertips. And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, there will be someone who can point you in the right direction.

I was thrilled (and more than a little honoured) to be invited on bridge tour to play with a bevy of seasoned players from across South Africa. As the rookie in the room, I was extremely overwhelmed at first. But as the days progressed I started relaxing into it – learning more in every game, becoming a better player with each bid and having exponential amounts of fun.

Le venue

Château de Montflour is a fairytale brought to life. With its centuries-old stone walls, lush parklands and elegant interiors brimming with colour and personality, it manages to be both grand and welcoming. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to wander barefoot across the grass with a book in hand – or sip wine on the back patio in great company.

Inside, the interiors are a riot of colour and personality. The fabrics are vibrant, the antiques eclectic, and there are books stacked invitingly in every corner. Each room tells a story, every window frames a scene you want to step into (although the higher you are in the turret, the less advisable this would be).

Outside, the grounds spill gently down to a slow-flowing river.

The trees are old, sturdy and generous with their shade.

This is not a place for rushing. This is a place for lingering.

It’s clear that the king of the castle, Christo Lindeque, and his late wife Elbe did the château up with love, passion and an abundance of creative flair.

More on the château at https://www.montflour.com/.

L’agenda

Our days were full. After our morning walk each day we explored brocantes, uncovering French treasures in quaint villages. We visited Aubusson, famed for its breathtaking tapestries, and stepped into the creative world of South African sculptor Adriaan Diedericks at his studio workshop.

On Bastille Day, we were treated to an alfresco lunch at the home of Louis Jansen van Vuuren and Hardy Olivier – a long, laughter-filled affair set under the trees in their magnificent garden. We sipped wine at the eclectic Chez Sunelle boutique in Boussac, joined a soiree at La Creuzette where Amanda Strydom performed in an intimate setting, watched fireworks, cheered during sheep-shearing demonstrations and even caught the Wimbledon men’s final. Our last meal was shared at a long table under the trees, the French summer light lingering until nearly 10pm.

Le game

In between all the adventures, there was bridge – and plenty of it. I’ve only been playing for two or three years, while many of the ladies on tour have been playing for decades. They were phenomenal – patient, encouraging and generous with their knowledge. Bridge is, at its heart, about communication and connection. As we got to know each other better, our games became more fluid and comfortable, and with every hand, I felt my own play improving.

Les people

Carel and I were the only men players in the group, joined by 10 remarkable women. This is a close-knit group of bridge players who usually meet in Plettenberg Bay each October for their annual tournament. They are warm, funny and endlessly youthful in spirit. Well-travelled, smart and with impeccable taste, the players (now friends!) brought energy and joy to every moment.

Each and every meal was delicious. Our glasses were never empty for long, and there was always someone keen to join you for a chat, a walk or a glass of something cold.

Le verdict

In bridge terms, the trip was a grand slam – bid and made. It was luxurious, fun, relaxing and perfectly curated, with thoughtful hosts and a group of people who turned a European summer holiday into something unforgettable.

If you’re ever in central France, a stay at Château de Montflour is an absolute must! And if you’re that way inclined, there are even bridge tables to play on.

Les photos

Here are some more pics of our fabulous trip, in no particular order: