Coincidence brought Leslie Kellen, a South African visionary entrepreneur, to Blaye where he instantly fell in love with a perfectly positioned “maison de maitre” overlooking the Gironde River: The Villa Saint Simon guest house dream was born! Leslie’s innate passion for people and the French culture together with his deep knowledge of wine enabled him to create an environment that attracts people from all over the world. The experiences made, transcends classical tourism to meaningful encounters and lifelong connections.
Then the day came for him to meet his enchanting German wife, the artist and interior designer, Clarissa, together their visions soared to new heights:
The power duo took the oldest trade road in Blaye, Rue St Simon, and started converting existing historical buildings into apartments, art studios, vintage garages, event and exhibition spaces, underground cellars and the latest edition, the Etalon Rouge Winery. Leslie also created his own wine bar, La Petite Cave, where some of the most magical memories are created!
We invite you to live like a local in one of our thoughtfully designed apartments and use tranquil Blaye as your perfect base to explore the Bordeaux winelands!