History and Renovation of the Hunting Lodge
Our Hunting Lodge at Domaine du Der has a long history, dating back to around 1840, during the reign of King Louis-Philippe I.
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Our Hunting Lodge at Domaine du Der has a long history, dating back to around 1840, during the reign of King Louis-Philippe I. During renovation, the previous owner discovered a fascinating detail: newspaper clippings hidden beneath seven layers of wallpaper. A small piece of the past that immediately gives the sense that this house has seen much over the years.
The carpenter who worked on the lodge believes the building was constructed in two phases: first the ground floor, followed later by the addition of the first floor.
Newspaper clippings hidden beneath seven layers of wallpaper
From Hunting Lodge to Welcoming Retreat
The original owners were the Valton family, stocking manufacturers from Troyes. Their descendants went on to establish the famous brand Petit Bateau in 1920. At that time, this wooded region regularly attracted affluent families, often for fox hunting.
The Hunting Lodge was therefore more than just a home: it was a place to stay, gather, and enjoy life outdoors.
A Typical Champagne-Style Home with Clever Details
The original timber-framed pavilion was designed in the traditional Champagne style. Think of a central courtyard and practical spaces that were once essential: habitable wings, a hayloft with a servant’s room and bread oven, a dovecote, an underground well, and the surrounding woodland park.
Many of these elements are not just “history” today—they also contribute to the unique atmosphere you feel here.
Local Materials
During the renovation, we deliberately chose an eco-design approach and materials from the region. You can see and feel it throughout the house:
- Wood for decoration from the site’s own fir trees and locally sourced oak
- Ceramic floor tiles, window sills, and roof tiles from a nearby factory
- Original oak shingles on the first floor
- Solar energy for hot water, which significantly reduces energy use, especially in summer
Nearly Three Years of Renovation, Respecting the Original
The renovation, carried out by the previous owner, took nearly three years and was intensive. To make the Hunting Lodge suitable for comfortable living, the wooden hayloft was replaced with a sturdy masonry structure on a concrete foundation.
This allowed old and new to merge naturally into an L-shape, while preserving the original timber-framed pavilion. The old foundation was also fully reinforced, maintaining the building’s character while providing the security and stability expected today.
Comfort with Character
The interior combines comfort with characterful details: handcrafted oak, rough-hewn wood, and a few antique pieces such as a copper boiler and a breadbox. The Godin wood stove adds extra coziness and heats the Hunting Lodge with local wood—perfect for long evenings, even when it’s a bit cooler outside.
In July 2008, the Hunting Lodge officially opened its doors to guests who want to enjoy history, comfort, and the tranquility of the woodland park.
Curious to experience a stay here? Check availability and book the Hunting Lodge at
Domaine du Der.
