Thanks for the suggestions will definitely follow up. It seems so hard to find the perfect place!

Bluebutterfly - I thought this placed looks nice but they are fully booked for the weeks we want but they still had some free weeks when I emailed last week

http://www.manoirsthelen.net/

Thank you both for the recommendation and the link!

I have been lucky enough to stay at Chateau Rigaud with my children and it is perfect for a large group. The food was amazing and we had some childcare in the mornings in the nursery room.

It is loosely based around babbington house and feels very luxurious and relaxed all at the same time. It works for kids of all ages and Anna and her husband Abe are happy to sort out activities for you.

I recommended it on nappyvalley when we returned a couple of years ago as it was a very relaxing holiday.

@Butterflies, the rooms are described here

http://www.chateaurigaud.co.uk/ballroom.html

It says "ballroom" but this is where you land when you go "the hotel/sleeping" and if you click on each name on the page "morocco", etc.. you have a description of each room.

Sorry, forgot to say to the OP (whilst hi-jacking your post - sorry!) that we had a great time here this summer:

www.lechiron.com

We took a ferry over to Calais, then drove the rest of the way - 7 hours there, 5 hours back (different route). Not sure if this would be too far for you. We loved the beautiful grounds, the big heated pool, the meals cooked for us by the owner on request and the way the chateau was set out worked well for several families travelling together. They also have cots, highchairs etc. We will probably go back next year if we can't find an alternative!

Hi, we are also looking for a place to stay in France next August. It would need to sleep 9 adults, 5 children and 2 babies. We are flexible about location but it must have a heated pool! If anyone can recommend anywhere that would be great!
Monaco - I am really interested in getting some more details on Chateau Rigaud that you recommended, but there doesn't seem to be any information about the accommodation etc on the website link that you gave. Would I need to send an email, or am I missing a link?!
Thanks!
BB

If you can afford it, this place looks stunning. 9 bedrooms and a dormitory for kids, pool, chef on site if you want, Bordeaux region, etc...

Have been dreaming to get married here and even got in touch with the owner who is British and was very friendly.

www.chateaurigaud.com

my aunt and uncle have a place
http://dordognevalley.co.uk/index.php/accommodation

Hi

I am looking to rent a large property in France for next August for a big group of families. We would need at least 8 bedrooms. We definitely want a pool and don't want to be too far from the ports.

Any recommendations would be gratefully received!

Thanks