| House and Its History
The building steeped in history with 14th century origins has been modified through the ages by successive noble families. Standing as it does on the crossroads and only two hundred metres from the bridge over the Vilaine river, it has always been of strategic importance. None more so than in the second World War when it was the centre of the local French resistance under the leadership of Marie Moquet, whose family owned the state for some 150 years. She used the house as a safe-haven, open night and day for Resistance fighters and escaping Allied pilots. In August 1944, the local Resistance were guarding the bridge, when a German column flying American colours and seeking to escape the allies, ambushed and murdered them. Indeed, the then Gardener of 'Le Manoir', Celestin Poulain was shot against the garden wall and remains buried there. There is now a memorial outside the front of the house to those brave young men who died. Marie Moquet was decorated after the war by both the French and General Eisenhower for the Americans, for her bravery and assistance in the escape of many allied airmen. Although updated over the centuries, 'Le Manoir' retains much of its mediaeval charm and has been the subject of recent sympathetic renovation by its English owners, returning many rooms to their historical significance. The main house is organised in two wings surrounding a walled and gated courtyard guarded by the ‘Defense Tower’, now guest suite. Attached to the house and overlooking the terrace and formal lawns, is the Guardian House, a self-contained cottage. There are a further 7 double rooms each with their own bathroom, including the Monk’s room which has the 16th century tower as a small sitting room with fabulous views across the main lake. All the rooms are furnished with English and French antiques and enjoy a very high standard of comfort. The main centre of activity is the salon. As with most rooms in ‘Le Manoir’ this features massive beams and stone fireplace, as well as stunning views over the Rose Garden. Steps lead on to the terrace which overlooks the formal lawns and lake, always a popular place for cocktails or after dinner drinks. The ‘salle-à-manger' is now how it would have been in the 15th century with exposed stone walls and floor, massive oak dining tables and access to the main tower, now the bar. There is an arched doorway through to the bibliotheque, once the coach-house, but now the main conference room with all modern communication facilities. The Romanesque heated spa pool is situated in the centre of the barn buildings. Seating at least 12, this hand crafted mosaic construction is unique in France. |
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