Every Monday I wake up to an onslaught of tweets from American friends catching up on season 3 of Downton Abbey (which already aired in the UK/Europe). It’s definitely a show that hooked me from episode one. True story: I watched the entirety of season one in one day. I then walked outside expecting to see green moors and speaking to myself in my head with a British accent. Later that week I swore I saw Bates at the swimming pool and Anna walking a dog. Needless to say the show, and it’s ability to convey “everyday life” through world events, has captured my attention.

So it was pretty fantastic when Jennifer – aka Chez Loulou – invited me up Normandy, a couple hours northwest of Paris by train. While I always knew her for her extensive love and knowledge of cheese, she also has one of the sweetest seasonal gigs around. By the time I visited Chateau de Canisy – Jennifer’s “home away from home” where she helps with client relations in peak season – in late November, the place was pretty calm, preparing for next season and working on repairs while there are no guests. As soon as I entered I couldn’t help but whisper to Jennifer, “you work in a modern day Downton Abbey” as my eyes popped out from the beauty around me. The chateau is in fact still a family home, owned by a count, and it is clear everyone who works there carries pride in what they do. There are even full-time roofers on staff, for the medieval castle that dates back to 1066. With 14-17 bedrooms (depending on how you count them) open to the public, each is completely unique with a look of its own. (Perk of it being empty was I got to see them all!). I can only imagine the family romping around who has rented it in its entirety for a month this summer. I’m not sure my budget could ever afford that, but a splurge for a night or two would be just divine. A French version of Downton Abbey, if you will. In the meantime, find myself dreaming up a Clue-esque blogger murder mystery party – how fun would that be!?! So without further ado, I present to you, the stunning Chateau de Canisy.

Jennifer and me!

The Library.

Music room.

Bathroom.

Game room.

More rooms after the jump!

Bedroom.

Bedroom.

Bedroom.

Copper bath.

Mirrored desk.

Another wing.

Dining room.

Lower hall.

Foyer.

Theater.

For more information on Chateau de Canisy, visit their website.

And yes, these photos all were taken on my iPhone!