The Manor de La Brelaisière
The Grounds du Manoir
History of La Brelaisière
The Domaine de La Brelaisière, located in close proximity to the medieval town of Chauvigny in the Vienne department, has a history closely linked to the rural traditions of the Poitou region.
The name “La Brelaisière” itself likely reflects ancient origins. In the toponymy of western France, place names ending in “-ière” often refer to an estate or land that once belonged to a family or a farm operator. It is therefore likely that La Brelaisière originally meant “the estate of Brelais”, named after a former owner or a family established in the region several centuries ago.
Although the site itself is probably much older, the current manor house appears to have been built in the late 19th century, between 1875 and 1900. Its architecture is characteristic of the elegant manor houses of the Poitou region: a symmetrical stone façade, large windows allowing natural light to flood in, and a steep slate roof.
At that time, La Brelaisière formed part of a larger agricultural estate, including a farm, barns and several outbuildings surrounded by cultivated land. Part of these agricultural buildings was unfortunately destroyed in a fire in 1976. The remains of this former farm can still be seen today in the woodland on the other side of the road, bearing witness to the estate’s agricultural past.
During the 20th century, La Brelaisière belonged to the Delmotte family, notably linked to Joseph-Dominique-Victor-Robert Delmotte (1888–1969), a senior officer in the French army. The estate then served as both a family residence and a rural property.
A lesser-known episode in its history took place in 1962, following the independence of Algeria. As in several regions of France, Harki families — former auxiliaries of the French army — were repatriated and temporarily accommodated in various locations. At La Brelaisière, around 17 families, representing nearly 90 people, were housed in the farm outbuildings from the spring of 1962. This moment places the estate within the broader history of welcoming and integrating these families in France.
At the beginning of the 21st century, the estate experienced a new chapter through a complete restoration. The historic buildings were renovated with great care to preserve their architectural character while incorporating modern comforts. A contemporary extension was added, and the grounds were redesigned to enhance the site’s exceptional natural setting.
Today, La Brelaisière is a place where heritage, nature and the art of living come together. The estate continues the spirit of traditional rural properties of the Poitou while offering a peaceful and inspiring setting just minutes from the medieval town of Chauvigny.