ABOUT
Stephen and Sara Cole moved from southern Ontario, Canada to Dordogne, France in 2019 to start an adventure to see "what would have to be true for us to live in a chateau in France?". In 2021, we realized the dream to find our chateau, and begin the next adventure to create maker and exhibition spaces in a glorious setting. ​
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We searched online for months viewing hundreds of properties. We narrowed our search and toured some properties when we happened upon the one that captured our hearts, Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
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A year later we finished the move to France to start our new adventure in our beautiful Château. We created “Manor and Maker” to reflect the two sides of our adventure. One, to live as chateau owners with all the ups and downs and two, to pursue our passions as makers, creating art in all its forms.
We invite you to come together, united by your passions, to share in this adventure. We invite you to join us too, as we bring our dreams to life.
Welcome to Manor & Maker.
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Come stay with us and share in our adventure.
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We want to be surrounded by people who love to create, and be with others unapologetically loving what inspires them. Imagine for a moment that feeling - then join us.
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We live in the Château year round, with our small dog, Dexter. It's our home, it's never been anything but a home for the past 500 years. Nestled in our sweet little town of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it's an authentic slice of French life.
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By participating your own creative experience here, you're helping to keep this piece of French heritage alive for future generations.
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We can't wait to welcome you to our home.
Nestled within the enchanting landscape of the Périgord in Dordogne, France, lies the timeless beauty of Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés. With its origins steeped in the rich tapestry of history, this majestic chateau beckons travelers and artists alike to immerse themselves in its storybook allure.
A Tapestry of Time
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In the heart of the 16th century, a noble dream was etched into the stones of this land, giving rise to the first whispers of Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Little is known of the souls who first called this château home, but their legacy endures in the ancient stones that now stand as sentinels of a bygone era.
A Tower of Tales
Dominating the skyline of the château is a magnificent stone tower, its spiraling staircase a testament to the craftsmanship of centuries past. As you ascend its winding steps, each worn stone tells a tale of whispered secrets and whispered dreams, inviting you to unravel the mysteries of the château's past.
Eleanor's Echo
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In the lands once graced by the legendary Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine, Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés stands as a silent witness to the storied past of this remarkable woman. Known for her indomitable spirit, devotion to the arts, wit & beauty, Eleanor's presence lingers in the very air, infusing the château with an aura of regal grace and timeless elegance.
The Romance of Retreat
In the late 19th century, a wave of inspiration swept through the great hall of Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, drawing scholars & architects from far and wide to seek solace within its walls. It was during this golden age of creativity that the château's second chapter unfolded, infusing its ancient stones with a newfound passion for artistry and expression.
A Dark Moment
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However, not all moments in the château's history have been bathed in light. In the darkness of World War II, the Nazis, with their relentless march across Europe, reached the doorstep of Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Ordered to be burnt to the ground as an act of cruelty and defiance, the château stood poised on the brink of destruction. Yet, in a twist of fate, the soldiers were called away at the last moment, sparing the Château from the flames that threatened to consume it.
A Haven for Wanderers
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Today, the Château stands as a sanctuary for modern-day makers and artists seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of the world. As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Dordogne, Château de Saint-Germain-des-Prés casts its spell once more, weaving a tapestry of wonder and enchantment for all who dare to dream. Come, let the whispers of history and the promise of tomorrow guide your steps as you embark on a journey to the heart of romance and inspiration.
