Charming Eco Retreat by a Pond near Loire Valley Castles, Billy, France

Description

In the Heart of Loir-et-Cher
Your retreat is set in the heart of nature, beside a small pond. Come and enjoy a sublime setting to recharge, just 20 minutes from the Beauval Zoo and under 40 minutes from the Loire Valley castles (Cheverny, Chenonceaux, Amboise, etc.).

SPACE
Set by a small pond on Christel’s land—your host is a Homnest agripreneur, goat farmer, and cheese producer—the retreat offers all the comforts within 14 m², perfectly optimized:
Sleeping area: queen-size bed (160x200 cm, 2 adults) and a convertible sofa (1 additional adult, extra sleeping option)
Kitchen area: refrigerator, gas stove, sink, utensils, dishes, and condiments
Living/dining area: table and chairs
Bathroom: sink, walk-in shower, and eco-friendly toilet (composting toilet)
Supplies: soap, towels, and bedding provided
Heating: gas stove
Cooling: ceiling fan (no air conditioning)
Outdoor furniture (not in winter): table, chairs, and deck chairs (no barbecue)
Drinking water: 5-liter fountain provided; tap water is non-potable (used for showers and dishes)
Cleaning included
Free parking

Optional meals (extra, reservation required at least 48 hours in advance; subject to availability afterward):
Breakfast (€10 per person)
Dinner appetizer platter (€30–35)
Cheese platter (€25–30)
Raclette platter (€30–35)
Homemade paninis (€6 per person)
Local wines (€10–20 per bottle, depending on the vintage)

Important notes:
The retreat is fully off-grid: electricity comes from solar panels, heating and cooking run on gas, and water is stored in a tank. You have usual comforts, but staying here also raises awareness of environmental impact.
Some rules apply:
Only use the provided electrical devices and personal devices (phones, laptops). High-power appliances like hairdryers, irons, or raclette grills cannot be used.
No smoking or open flames on the property (high fire risk).
Wastewater is filtered naturally; use only the provided 100% natural products.
Pets are not allowed.

ACCESS
Check-in: from 5:00 PM
Check-out: before 11:00 AM
Key box available for late arrivals
Free parking ~150 m from the retreat
As the retreat is in a field by a pond, we recommend suitable footwear for wet areas, especially in winter or rainy weather (boots, etc.)

NOTES
The retreat is on Christel’s property; you may encounter her and her animals during your stay.
No Wi-Fi in the lodge
Entrance has a small 3-step staircase; not wheelchair accessible
Nearby attractions:
Beauval Zoo: 20 min
Château de Cheverny: 25 min
Château de Chambord: 33 min
Château de Chenonceaux: 33 min
Château de Montrésor: 37 min
Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire: 38 min
Château Royal d’Amboise: 40 min
Château du Clos Lucé: 43 min
Blois: 40 min
Château d’Azay-le-Rideau: 50 min
Château de Villandry: 50 min
Tours: 50 min
Homnest immerses you in extraordinary adventures, close to local communities. Our concept: we build beautiful eco-lodges and install them for free with friendly hosts, letting travelers explore regions authentically. Our goal: 1,000 lodges with 1,000 amazing hosts worldwide—including Antarctica. Welcome to your host Christel!

ADDITIONAL RULES
Do not operate the stove for more than 2 hours at a time; turn off the gas bottle at night. The gas stove bottle must be closed after each use.
Do not handle gas bottles (except closing the valve at night) or disconnect detectors.
Gas smell: Danger! If persistent, open windows, avoid flames, leave the retreat, and contact your host immediately.
Smoking and open flames are strictly forbidden.
Only use provided electrical devices and personal phones/laptops. Do not manipulate the electrical system.
Keep indoor temperature above 10°C to prevent freezing.
Do not drink tap water; use the provided potable water fountain.
If tap water runs out, close all taps and inform your host immediately.

These rules must be respected and are your responsibility. Homnest is not liable for incidents resulting from non-compliance. An English version of the house manual is available on request.

Charming Eco Retreat by a Pond near Loire Valley Castles, Billy, France