1. We believe nothing replaces a personal discussion

While this FAQ document will help answer many of your questions, we believe nothing replaces a personal discussion. Booking a stay at Château Dépierre is a meaningful commitment, and we want to support you every step of the way. Our personal Q&A sessions offer a warm, informal opportunity to ask questions, share your interests, an explore how we can create the perfect experience for you. We’re deeply committed to help you feel confident and excited about your visit to Château Dépierre.

Please click below to arrange your personal Q&A session.

2. What types of experiences do you offer?

We specialize in immersive culinary experiences and restorative château stays:

Culinary Experiences

  • 3-day and 5-day retreats Hands-on, seasonal, and collaborative. Guests cook alongside Chef Denise, explore local ingredients, and share meals in the château’s kitchen and garden. Includes instruction, lodging, and most meals. You can either create and enjoy a private retreat for 3-6 guests (choosing from our wide array of topics) or you can join one of our already prescheduled classes.

  • Bespoke workshops Planning something special? We design custom culinary experiences for birthdays, team retreats, or intimate gatherings of family or friends. For a personalized consultation, you can use the blue button on the lower right hand of your screen to schedule a private call to discuss your ideas.

Château Stays

Not joining a culinary experience? We welcome you to stay in one of our guest rooms (minimum two nights) and enjoy the quiet rhythm of Roanne. Daily breakfast is included; additional meals can be arranged.

We’re also open to hosting writing workshops, wine seminars, and art retreats. We have a consortium of talented experts to facilitate non-culinary workshops. Have a vision? Let’s co-create something unforgettable.

3. Can I stay at the château without attending an experience?

Yes! We offer three beautifully renovated guest rooms with en-suite baths. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of Roanne. Minimum stay: two nights. Book directly through our online booking system.

If you’re accompanying someone who will be attending an experience solo, there may be an additional charge for you if you decide to join the cooking group for meals or participate in any local field trips.

4. How do I book a stay or experience?

All bookings—whether for culinary experiences or guest room stays—can be made through our online booking system here (3 day), here (5 day), or here (château stays) . For special requests or custom experiences, feel free to contact us (blue button on the bottom right of your screen).

5. Where is Château Dépierre located?

We’re nestled in Roanne, a charming village in central France known for its culinary legacy, riverside beauty, and warm local spirit.

Curious about what makes Roanne so special? Discover more here.

6. Are meals included?

Culinary Experiences

  • Most meals are included and prepared collaboratively with Chef Denise.

  • On arrival night, we host an apéro with local wine and small bites.

  • Dinner that evening is open—explore Roanne’s vibrant restaurant scene with our curated list here.

Château Stays

  • Daily breakfast is included.

  • Additional meals can be arranged upon request.

7. Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We do our best to accommodate with advance notice. However, due to the nature of our seasonal, shared-preparation approach, we’re unable to support:

  • Vegan diets

  • Strict vegetarianism

  • Gluten or lactose intolerance

Allergies or sensitivities? Let us know—we’ll do our best to create an inclusive experience.

8. Is there an age requirement?

Yes.

  • Ages 12–17: Welcome with a participating adult guardian.

  • 18+: Welcome to attend independently.

Please note: the château is a historic property with stairs and uneven terrain. It is not wheelchair accessible, and experiences may involve extended periods of standing and walking.

9. Is the château available for private events?

Occasionally, yes. We love hosting intimate gatherings, creative workshops, and special events. Reach out to discuss your vision (lower blue button on the bottom right of your screen).

10. What’s the story behind Château Dépierre?

It began with a coffee shop meet-cute and a shared dream of life in France. Today, Château Dépierre is a living restoration project—a hub for creativity, cuisine, and connection.

Read Our Story to learn how a Chicago couple turned a dream into a destination.

11. What is your cancellation policy?

Culinary Experiences

To reserve your spot:

  • 25% deposit (non-refundable) due at the time of booking

  • 75% balance due 30 days before arrival (also non-refundable)

If booking within 30 days, full payment is due at booking. After payments are made, the class session is non-cancelable and non-refundable.

We understand life happens. In rare cases, we may, at our discretion, offer a one-time reschedule (subject to availability) within 18 months.

For full details, see our Terms & Conditions.

Château Stays

To reserve your spot:

  • Full payment is due at the time of booking

This policy applies to all bookings, whether made directly or via platforms like Airbnb.

  • Full refund: Cancel 30 days or more before check-in to receive a 100% refund of the nightly rate and eligible fees.

  • Partial refund: Cancel between 7 and 30 days before check-in to receive a 50% refund of the nightly rate.

  • No refund: Cancellations made less than 7 days before check-in are non-refundable.

  • Grace period: Cancel within 48 hours of booking, and at least 14 days before check-in, to receive a full refund.

  • Refunds apply to the nightly rate only. Taxes and third-party processing fees may be excluded or refunded based on timing and method.

  • No-shows or early departures are considered non-refundable.

  • All cancellations must be submitted in writing to info@chateau-depierre.com

  • For full details, see our Terms & Conditions.

12. Do you recommend travel insurance?

YES — especially for international travel. Travel insurance can protect against:

  • Missed flights or connections

  • Medical issues

  • Trip interruptions

Be sure your plan covers prepaid, nonrefundable bookings and includes trip interruption coverage. We are unable to refund experiences for general schedule changes or travel complications that are out of our control. This is why travel insurance is strongly recommended.

13. Who are your guests?

Our guests are curious, collaborative, and open to new experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook, a creative spirit, or simply someone seeking a meaningful pause, Château Dépierre offers a space to connect—with food, with others, and with yourself.

14. How do I get to Roanne?

Roanne is easily accessible by train from Lyon or Paris (which connect via Lyon). We’re happy to provide travel tips or help coordinate local transport from the train station in Roanne. While we don’t offer airport pickup, taxis and regional trains are readily available. More details about travel here.

15. What should I pack?

Bring:

  • Comfortable clothes for cooking and walking (the ability to layer is a great idea!)

  • Closed-toe shoes for your time in the kitchen (NO open toe sandals, flip-flops etc) - we want to ensure your feed are adequately protected!

  • A journal (if you’re reflective)

  • An appetite for connection

The vibe is relaxed, collaborative, and quietly luxurious.

Do I need to pack something fancy? 

We encourage it! One evening (usually the last) is reserved for a festive dress-up tradition we call “la soirée Dépierre” —a nod to the château’s elegant past. Whether vintage, formal, or simply your favorite outfit, it’s all about celebrating together in style.

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