Unless you’re familiar with France or you’re a major geography buff, you might not even be aware that there is a chain of beautiful private islands surrounding the country, known as the Ile de France – or the Island of France. The River Seine alone, the most exclusive section of the area, has about 60 small private islands scattered around.

A lot of the islands around this region are inhabited and built up as resorts, private residences, etc. Some are uninhabited, however, and some will remain that way. One of the larger islands of the immediate area, the island of Chantemesle (Ile de Chantemesle), is a 25 acre piece of land that could only be described as breathtaking.

There are two quaint villas located on the island, and Chantemesle offers about as much privacy as one could ever hope for. The main house is a lot larger than the guest house, but both structures blend in well with the overall look and feel of the island. There aren’t any “McMansion-style” structures on the island.

The main house has a classic old world French look about it, but the inside features some modern amenities to make guests more comfortable in their stay. Inside of the main house, you’ll find a large, open living room with a stone fireplace, and also a large formal dining room, a full-sized gourmet kitchen, a Victorian veranda, a cloakroom, and much more.

French homes are built rather different than other homes in terms of living. The living and dining rooms are located on the second floor, and the first floor is where you will find four large bedrooms along with four of the home’s five bathrooms. There’s one more bathroom and bedroom combination upstairs.

The Il de Chantemesle is certainly nothing new. French Impressionist era painters were lured to this area long before Internet articles spoke about its appeal. Most famously, Claude Monet lived very close to Chantemesle on Vetheiul and while there completed quite a few paintings in seclusion. You’ll also find troglodyte settlements and a 12th century church on the islands.

Because Il de Chantemesle is more like a house and not really a hotel-like atmosphere, there won’t necessarily be a staff on hand. If you would prefer a staff to assist you while you stay there, however, one is available upon request to offer turndown service and to cook for you.

If you decline the staff and go at it alone, you can either try to master French cuisine yourself, ala Julia Child, or you can visit one of the many nearby restaurants to get a taste of real French food.

Up to 12 people can stay on the island at a time, and the prices range from around 5,500 Euros per week to about 8,500, depending on what time of year you stay.