History
Perched above the village of Bort-l’Étang, Château de Codignat has stood with noble grace through the centuries. Between ancient stones, illustrious families, moments of glory and rebirth, unfolds the tale of a place beyond time.
12th century — The Origins
The château was built upon the foundations of a watchtower overlooking the Dore Valley. It once protected the lords of Ravel and watched over an arkose quarry — the emblematic stone used to build many of the region’s castles and churches.
14th–16th centuries — The Medieval Age
First mentioned in 1315 under the name Codonhac, the estate became a noble fief. It passed through the hands of influential families: the Codegnat, Ravel, and Bost lineages. From the 16th century onwards, under the De Codonhac family, the château was greatly expanded — growing to four times its original size.
It became a true residence and local seat of authority, particularly under Antoine de Ravel, then Jehan du Bost and his descendants.
18th century — The Nobility of Empire
In 1754, Charles Antoine Claude de Chazerat, Intendant of the Generality of Riom, became owner of the estate. A dedicated reformer, he worked to improve agriculture, industry, and heritage throughout Auvergne. Exiled during the Revolution, he returned in 1803 and died in Clermont-Ferrand in 1824.
The château then passed to the d’Estaing family: Jean-Philippe, followed by Charles-François d’Estaing, Lieutenant General of the King’s armies and a key figure in French military history. The last known lord, Charles Henri-Théoda d’Estaing, was guillotined in 1794, leaving no heirs.
20th century — The Heritage Reborn
At the beginning of the 20th century, the roof was restored in the style of Viollet-le-Duc. Between the two wars, the château was acquired by Prince Obolenski, a descendant of the last Tsar of Russia, who found refuge there with his family.
1970 — A Hotel of Charm
Completely renovated to become a luxury hotel, the château joined the Relais & Châteaux network in 1975. Its architectural authenticity was preserved while integrating modern comforts expected of a prestigious establishment. It soon became a sought-after address for travelers in search of refinement.
2003 — A New Direction
Purchased by the Baglioni Group, then managed by Sorgente Hotels & Resorts from 2010, the château continued to evolve, earning its fifth star in 2012. Despite this ambitious repositioning, the estate closed its doors in 2021.
2024 — A New Era
Acquired by Groupe DIES, Château de Codignat begins a new chapter. Transformed into a château d’hôtes, it now welcomes guests in a more intimate and convivial atmosphere. This return to essentials seeks to preserve the soul of the place while offering an authentic and heartfelt experience.
A commitment to heritage preservation
Since its recent takeover, the Château de Codignat has been the focus of renewed attention, driven by a strong commitment: to preserve its historical soul while integrating it into the present day. Every decision made, every renovation undertaken, is rooted in a respect for the structure, the materials, and the natural environment that surrounds it. We firmly believe that heritage is not merely maintained through walls, but through a vision. Preserve, transmit, enhance: these are the three pillars that now guide the future of the Château de Codignat, ensuring that its story continues to unfold with rigor and passion.
