THE SECRET OF THE CAVERN REVEALED!

Selmar finally manages to reveal the secrets of the cavern in a subterranean exploration, and, in a typically unusual Lalande mix, Cupid comes to the chateau for a special 'Valen-dines meal'...
The Chateau Diaries Episode 193 ✨🏰✨
Escape to the chateau with ’The Chateau Diaries’ 🏰
This channel follows the adventures of chatelaine Stephanie in her French 16th century home, the Chateau de Lalande, in the heart of rural France ❤️
We share our life in this ancient chateau in the heart of the French countryside, and show you the diy, renovations, crafts, cooking and gardening that are needed to bring a home like this to life!
A very special thank you to all of you who have become Patrons of the Chateau de Lalande. You have made The Chateau Diaries one of the top 500 Patreon accounts in the world, and have transformed not only out lives here, but the future of this beautiful chateau! I’m overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity. On behalf of this beautiful chateau that will continue to survive and flourish because of you, thank you!!!
If you're interested in become a Patron of The Chateau Diaries, click here: / thechateaudiaries

[@jj3111]

I found your channel as I was sitting with my mom. I moved home to take care of my parents. My mom has since passed. We would sit and watch your videos and dream. I would tell her that some day I would go and visit you someday, she made me promise. I’m not sure It will happen anytime soon, as I’m now taking care of my amazing dad. This all being said, I would like to thank you for posting such happiness all the time, I feel like I know you all and you are my friends. I now watch all the amazing channels connected with you and maybe someday when it’s safe, I will make a extended trip and stay at all the amazing Chateaus featured on all your videos... I love watching all the progress… Thank you for sharing Stephanie...Blessing to all at Chateau da Lalande

[@tessnadin8674]

The

[@BehindtheseEyes]

Sadden to hear loss of your Mother....Prayers for Father and Yourself. I hope that Dream/ Promise of la Lande will come true❣

[@twobluestripes]

This is so sweet. I hope your dad is doing well. I love that your parents want to make sure you make some dreams come true after taking care of them in their elder years!

[@HelloHello-zo4dd]

⁰

[@shannonmoore4201]

This comment is so sweet. I’m sorry for the loss of your wonderful mother.

[@ballybliss4844]

Only Selma could go from a human waste container to playing Cupid in a white suit while entertaining us with his great sense of humor. You were all at your best. Great vlog.

[@aleta5873]

IKR

[@robert3302]

He really should have been wearing at least a mask, preferably a respirator in that area.

[@susancureton1060]

If I could put 2 thumbs up on this statement, I would. Too fun! Who are all these incredible people who have found each other??

[@Rosa7388]

Selmar exclaiming "Happy Halloween!" and then remembering that it was Valentine's day made my day🤣

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

Freudian slip?? 🤣🤣🤣

[@megankazukibuttons9334]

Nah, he meant that it was a dress up day. My question is , how does he have room for so many wonderful outfits in such a tiny camper van?

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

@@megankazukibuttons9334 Because secretly he is Mr Benn! 😂💞

[@megankazukibuttons9334]

@@moiragoldsmith7052 I am afraid I'm not familiar with. Mr. Benn. I'm from Philadelphia PA, USA

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

@@megankazukibuttons9334 Ahh. It was a children's programme many years back. Mr Benn wore a bowler hat and smart suit usually; but if needed would go into his wardrobe and come out wearing exactly what was needed for the occasion. 😂💐

[@rachaeljones6564]

Adventerous Selmar went below the loo, Too a mysterious, magical land of poo. And although no tunnels could be found, He brought us new footage from underground! Thank you for such a fun video, happy Valentine's Day all! ❤

[@carolcarmichael2677]

Hahaha Rachael Jones That was brilliant

[@sandicoppins]

Well done Rachael

[@andrewjones2453]

I am Racheal Jones, too. With an e-a-l. So... Romantic Selmar dressed all in white Made ValenDine's Day a pure delight, With a bow in his hands and wings on his back, He launched arrows in a Chateau Love Attack!

[@chasethecat3839]

That was cute, witty, creative, fun - perfect. TY for sharing it. I'm grinning ear to ear after a very stressful evening

[@sinthesouth]

^^Elite comment

[@johncunningham1098]

Don’t you think the gifts last night were exceptionally creative. Everyone completely enjoyed them. I love how everyone is free to be whoever they are. It is a place of great safety and respect (and love) for each individual. Only a loving person with a huge heart could have so much room for everyone. As I tell all my friends, you can’t fake this. Deep respect and love for Stephanie, Queen of LaLande.

[@ntakovacj3644]

Exactly: "You can't fake this."

[@suzannahmacaulay7768]

Well said, Cheers to that! 🍻

[@SuperSunshinesue]

I second that emotion !!!

[@scpmdt]

Stephanie is a genuinely lovely person. May she always be blessed with happiness, prosperity & love.

[@chasethecat3839]

John - what an exceptional comment.

[@cynthiamac650]

Selmar is a real gem. So fun and sweet to be around and very kind. He's a good man, indeed.

[@mayfleur36]

Not to mention rather humble and down to earth.

[@dmacisaac9382]

And very good looking too 😁

[@mayfleur36]

@@dmacisaac9382 Oh my goodness, you’ll never get any argument from me about that 😉

[@Hellyers]

I can totally relate to Nati... all dressed and "ready to run" only to find myself 2 hours later still avoiding actually going out for a run! 😂😂

[@clairecooper1754]

Did Selmar have wings in his camper as well? The man is a miracle.

[@BDThomas]

I have long suspected that Selmar is a time lord and the camper is in fact a tardis.

[@kathysyphrit5713]

Selmar is a gentle soul with his vibrant laughter, so much love he shows.

[@jimm8682]

Selmar “ I’m a bit claustrophobic” as he goes into the tunnel, and getting all mucked 🆙 .......then later appears as Cupid with wings and all in white, .....have to love this guy!,,,

[@pw4075]

Philip's, "Ooh, hello, Nati!" had me giggling!!

[@sadielaurentiwhitley3762]

I absolutely adore that you waited for Selma, I’m not surprised, you are all full of love!

[@ibosquez5238]

Selmar

[@eastcoastartist]

I vote for a photo shoot of Selmar in his Cupid suit💘

[@shelovesitaly]

I just adore Selmar..."no beer and cheese"? hahaha....and then with his Cupid angel wings...he brings so much joy to the world...as do you all!

[@laplibrarian6094]

"I've got no objection" says Philip. Love it! 😂

[@hectorbrown656]

Marie you look lovely in your dress .

[@nataliedrysdale7238]

Selmar you are so sweet, kind, hardworking, gentle and adorable

[@sokyoul]

I love how Selmar always knows how to dress up🕺

[@hematite2588]

It wouldn’t bother me at all exploring the cavernous site. Selmar is an adventurous person to challenge his claustrophobic fears and just get in there and do it. Fearless! This is a very cute ChateauDiary edition. Thank you, Stephanie! Love to everyone!

[@futabulousco.3881]

I have said Selmar is an angel sent to LaLande. He even has the wings to prove it. Happy "Valendines" to you all. The cake looked amazing as did you lovely ladies and handsome gents.

[@lyladepaula3291]

Semlar has major Fun Uncle energy

[@carolehanrahan]

I am constantly amazed at Selmar's wardrobe!!!! Every special occasion, no matter what it is, he has a fabulous suit, shoes, ties and even wings at the ready. You all looked so lovely at your dinner and that cake looked delicious. Happy Valentine's Day to you all.

[@chasethecat3839]

And all kept in a small home (his camper)

[@myownlittlehouse471]

Now now ... tomatoes are a fruit, actually -- right? Steph was in charge of the veggies, so tomatoes are not her department. But Philip was in charge of the wine, which comes from grapes, which is fruit. So the tomatoes were on him, haha!

[@christinevr7698]

LOL!!🤣🤣🤣

[@gailcraig4495]

When I've used up fresh tomatoes & it's Mexican food night, I open a can of diced tomatoes & use that.

[@michaelmarshall9090]

Need to do a video on normal shopping for household items such as groceries and supplies. It would help viewers in other countries to see how locals live and shop. What is the nearest town/village/city near the chateau and show what is available there for groceries/bread/meat etc.

[@gertsgarden]

Is it a hedgehog home? I’m so excited! Thank you so much for Sunday’s episode. You show such gratitude and live with such humble grace! You and your colorful cast of friends and love and laughter are such a blessing to us all. That’s why people want to give to you and your dream, because your dreams have become ours. A magical place place far away where we can make a difference and plan an adventure! Thank you so much for all the strength it took to be where you are today. You have worked hard and have earned it!

[@kinou_clem__6366]

Imagine a giant mama hedgehog living there 😂😂😂

[@0999milky]

what has happened to the Lalande hedgehog ? does anyone know ?

[@kinou_clem__6366]

@@0999milky They just come and go.

[@hatshepsut8329]

Everyone looked so nice at the Valendines Monday dinner, especially Cupid! Such a beautiful cake too!

[@timriehl1500]

Phillip is pretty good with puns in the English language.

[@sugarlady901]

Diverse Mr. Selmar~ Man of many talents ~ Climbing in a cesspit in the afternoon then dressed in a white tux with feathered wings in the evening shooting love across the world! 💕

[@barbaragrace1992]

Maybe a calendar with Selmar in all his different costumes. As well as all of you in your different attires. Nati could have a sultry glamour model look. ????

[@TheIreneSchulze]

It was worth waiting the extra day to celebrate Valentine’s Day together, just to see Selmar play Cupid. Brilliant! And that heart shaped choc cake looked devine. Sending love to you all from Melbourne, Australia 😘

[@francesaggarwal22]

So funny, Cupid firing arrows round the world. Nearly choked on my cuppa. 🤣

[@susanmace8183]

Stephanie said she had the original plans of La Lande. I wonder if it is shown on there. Possibly a wine store.

[@TheBTG88]

As Davy confirmed, definitely a cesspit.

[@suvarnawm3034]

Can't wait.. Can't wait.. can't wait.. ooh the suspense 😁

[@marilynmees1690]

Valen-dine ??? valen-dine ?????? I feel the word-play of our Philip here. Cant wait to see what the subterranean room reveals - so exciting. thank you for sharing ... so enjoyable. I particularly loved the valentine 'unwrap' episode ... Selmar and Philip were in great form

[@michaelwoodbodley8099]

In the modern era of commercialization it’s more like valen-dimes day!

[@marilynsanneh8959]

@@michaelwoodbodley8099 LOL ... I see what you did there ... and you are soooooooooooooo right

[@mlev8223]

My advice replace the parsley with cilantro (coriander leaves) for an authentic taste for your tacos and guacamole.

[@Sosoph098]

Nati looked so pretty at the end!

[@OhSoLovingly]

HAHAHAHAH Selmar on Valentine's Day with heart-shaped balloons, "HAPPY HALLOWEEN!" I adore this man...

[@Helen-us1ly]

You finally got to see the hole. Selmar got to be the mole. He is such a braisin soul. Standing on a mound of poo and goo Philip say's I'm glad it's you. Stef who see's the glass 1/2 full: There within we shall seek and find us gold a big heep

[@andrewfrench4087]

Selmar's cupid stunt with the atlas was really great, and perhaps, a new sort of after dinner game.

[@ruthiepooh86]

When you describe your father as your best friend...Mine was too and I too went into a deep spiral down following his death.

[@chasethecat3839]

I remember telling my therapist that I spent a bunch of money on my credit cards when my dad died. I was expecting him to say something to confirm my guilt- he didn't. I was trying to buy myself things to avoid the depression, the grief. It eventually grabs you. Your comment took me back to that year. I was just telling some friends earlier I miss my dad today.

[@jennistevenson796]

I still cry a little most days remembering my best friend, my Daddy, seven years on from his death. I think it is very special that Steph shares her grief and her love for her Father . I hope you are feeling stronger . Love never dies xxxx

[@simplycooking4578]

I had a crap weekend but this just cheers me up. I hate COVID

[@mariak9727]

🥰I hope the coming days are better for you!🥰

[@k.j.2481]

That was beautiful Stephanie. So many countries represented around the table. The best Valentine's Day at the Chateau because you have a great love for each person that is there with you.💝💝💝💝

[@lisaburns1660]

Selmar is a superhero! He works so hard!

[@jmk1962]

Olden day version of a septic tank or 'thunderbox'. Wooden toilet box dropped contents into a collection vessel that was emptied via the outside stone manhole.

[@fatimademendonca6009]

Stephanie as always you are very elegant!

[@jf1a8x1]

Oh my goodness! Selmar’s wings are spectacular! Your Valendine’s dinner was lovely as usual! ❤️❤️❤️

[@sarahfoster6765]

Only Selmar can get away with one minute looking like Indiana Jones On a underground mission & then a vision in white as Cupid sending love around the world. ❤️

[@maureenwalman9569]

There is a whole archaeology discipline devoted to digging out oubliettes and cess pits! Amazing information can be extracted from the contents. Some cool videos on sites in Pompeii and Herculaneum. Good luck

[@denisemarle4141]

Thanks Maureen, sounds very interesting, I'll have to look them up!

[@dttttt]

Yes Mary Beard has videos about this, fascinating! They're able to know what Pompeiians ate. So cool.

[@helenlesley5456]

Always wondering did the Marquis in the 18th century that had close connections to Marie A end up like a lot of the land owner aristocracy at the hand s of the revolutionists?

[@kaihandren9309]

WOW!! I have no words ... you made us all appreciate Valentine's Day forever !! Selmar in white w/ the wings !!....think that only happens in dreams .... Natie, boomshell ! Thank you all ❤ 🌹

[@GRANDIPRGROUPTravel]

Thank you Cupid for all the LOVE ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@lewisnapton8399]

Stunning! Stunning! Stunning! Absolutely Stunning! All of it!

[@kerryannestevenson6099]

It’s true,this is the best show on TV.Thankyou.Big Valentine bisous 💋

[@laurabellesandiego]

For the life of me I cannot understand how anyone could give these videos a thumbs down! I love every minute of them! I laughed so much tnrough this eposide.

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

Loved the Atlas game...sending love to the entire world on the QT though 🥰😘

[@endeavouringit]

when Phillip said he had no objection I definitely laughed out loud, don't blame him one iota

[@nigelbullock9039]

Selmar is simply an angel with a lot of hair and a beard. What cant he do. Amazing episode

[@mattsmithlon]

Thanks for the arrow on London! All Londoners need all the love and support this year! xxx

[@oldheadcook]

Well I just called my sister in California .....she watches you at night.....I had to tell her about the discovery ❗️She told me she may get her wound vac. off this week, it has been on since before Christmas...she has come a long way and looking forward to your shows has been a highlight in her recovery , thank you all for your help❣️

[@kathyvick2710]

LOL! The exploration under the Chateau was so cool; however, I don’t think I would have been as brave as Selmar was. The thought of going down where poo could have been makes my stomach churn...😝 Phillips answer to Stephanie’s question about how he felt about Selmar being the one to go down instead of him was priceless. I could tell on the other video about going down there he wasn’t too thrilled....not like Selmar. You all looked fabulous for your 💜 dinner. The chocolate cake looked delicious!!! 😋 Stay well...be safe...and blessings to you all!!!

[@Sgirl]

All you people getting icked-out by the pit ... what do you think dirt is, that you touch all the time when you garden? It's decades and decades of poo, dead animals, dead humans, rotten food, rotten vegetation, and rock dust. After 75 to 100 years, what was in that pit has turned to dirt. And probably very rich and fertile dirt at that.😉

[@MadMorti]

Hmmmm - do my sharp eyes detect something catching fire on the stove at 27:42? LOL - by 28 mins, the item has been moved, and the door opened to let in fresh air..... :D

[@ricoatthebeach]

As a lowly Lord of LaLande, I am happy to receive a fully pre-printed card with just a hand signature. The extra gesture of handwritten sentence is indicative of the grace with which you show your appreciation for your patrons.

[@martinethevenau69]

Your Valentines heart shaped cake looked delicious with the strawberries covered in chocolate. As usual Phillip created a stunning table decor.

[@mindquestinc]

Salmar is super adorable in the shot.... both such sweet souls .... can’t wait

[@bredaswitzer1948]

Brilliant, well done on having valentines day a day later so selmar could be there,he did a great job of being Cupid and the cake looks delicious, ❤🐝🦋🌻

[@ktkt9982]

Selmar looks fab in white with wings. I'm sure every female heart is now in love with him🥰

[@sandiebell1676]

Selmar the Brave in the cavin to Cupid wings on Valentine. Wonderful! The spreading of love all over the world with close friends epic.

[@ttbko]

What a gorgeous collection of people!!! However, I have to say, Natalie, you have excelled yourself! That gold top you're wearing is absolutely magical!!! x

[@nancylayden6006]

My father was born on Valentine's Day 1918. He passed in 2007. My mother, who passed in 2014 always made a heart shaped black velvet birthday cake topped with cherries!

[@mariak9727]

🥰Sounds delicious! What a sweet loving gesture! 🥰

[@jeanoliver3784]

My birthday is Valentines Day. I have had a lot of heart shaped Birthday Cakes in my many years. 😄

[@GabrielOsson]

So much fun! Many THANKS to all of you and specially Cupid, AKA Selmar!

[@BehindtheseEyes]

Selmar... such a Renaissance Man! Explorer of Cesspool by Day and Cupid by Night❣

[@kirkshrum6222]

Lol, the towel on the stove catching fire. I would of liked to see the reaction when that was seen!

[@evmcelroy]

I didn't even see that! I will have to replay it.

[@yesidothecooking]

when? lol

[@debralpateart8862]

Oh Selmar! Your arrow of Love was so close! I'm just a couple hundred miles south of Canada! Loved your Cupid's Valentine Suit complete with wings. I had chocolate cake with cherries atop, yummy 😋 Take care, hugs to Diesel 🐕 ❤️

[@rachaeltaylor8233]

I love ❤️ that Valentines game!! Selmar is just fantastic - he goes from working in frozen poop to wearing angel 😇 wings (from dirty trousers to a white suit)

[@trinitystarclararose7118]

Happy Valentine’s Day beloved ones thank you for the joy you bring.🌈❤️🇨🇦

[@0210rokvist]

I can hardly wait to see, if poor Philip survived ;)))

[@gertsgarden]

I can’t wait to see how dirty he gets!

[@chasethecat3839]

Poor Phillip? Poor claustrophobic Selmar. How did Phillip escape the trip down the whole? Lol.

[@JulentesDing]

selmar looks amazing with his wings,,i love your post valentines party

[@dttttt]

Maybe the perforated pipe is a clue. There's a reason why it's perforated and not solid.

[@kellysullivan1755]

I loved it all.. the excitement..the reveal... phillips snorting laugh....and then cupid... we allllll need a selmar cupid... xo

[@lindacunningham6596]

Love Phillips laughing snort! Makes me laugh evert time...

[@bigboy77dk]

You all looked wonderful, and what a beautiful cake 😍 But... Can I just say.... Marie, you looked absolutely stunning in that new dress 😁

[@letacarr6121]

Nati, you are so cute! I believe we would be friends if we ever met!

[@kimphilpin1062]

Oh lala, Nati you looked super. You ladies always go all out. X

[@nataliaoliveto7077]

thanks lovely!!!

[@annettewalter2273]

Love the balloons and spreading love into the world. We need more of that. 💞💞

[@jenniferjahns4006]

Love all these comments and how I'd love to be a friend at your dinner party.

[@pamkullman8839]

who knew that an old septic tank would be exciting. I almost threw up when my septic tank had to be pumped and never want that experience again, and yet I was excited about yours!

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

I probably get way too excited about all the goings on on this channel! Heheh. I sit here clapping and cheering so much, I have to laugh at myself. 😹

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

@@selmarduinofficial ❤️x

[@fast800journeylifebeyond5]

Loved this vlog but even more that you are so considerate that you waited for selmar and diesel to get back. You are a team and the respect for each other is evident. Omg that cake made me drool. Happy valendines day to you all ❤️❤️

[@TheDoozer52]

Aww, Selmar didn't send any love to Australia, well I will still send love to you all, xxx Doreen, Melbourne, Australia xxx

[@Tracy_R]

THE EXCITEMENT OF METAL DEFECTING WOULD BE A WONDERFUL A VIDEO!!!

[@chasethecat3839]

Marie- LOVE YOUR DRESS. U look amazing in it..very complimentary color for uour skin tone. Everyone looked fabulous. I wish I could say it in Grinchs voice on here when he tells himself he looked fabulous lol.

[@marjoleint3592]

That chocolatecake looked so delicious and pretty! I love that you show the French supermarkets. This summer we hope to go on holiday in France again and I love the different products in each country. I especially love the 🥖 baguettes! Love from the Netherlands

[@Ambers_Team]

I can’t wait to see what they find even if it’s a septic system it will still be entertaining 😳🤩😅 here’s to hoping its a tunnel or old cellar instead 🤣

[@juniorsir9521]

Well the aristocrats of the ancient days used to eat gold. Just imagine what the sewer may hold.. gold Nuggets!

[@dianegriffith3006]

Cesspool not septic Stephanie found out. 😆

[@Ambers_Team]

@@dianegriffith3006 😂🤣😭

[@hayleykent656]

Ahh, Marie's dress is beautiful on hee and Selma, well done that Man. Stephanie and Phillip, you keep me smiling. X

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

Selmar, I have watched the footage a few times and I think you will find that your Cupids arrow hit somewhere around Framlingham and Halesworth. Naturally this makes perfect sense, as it is where I live. 💘

[@TatyanaValdaBelindaHill]

@@selmarduinofficial ❤️xx

[@amandaoosthuizen9065]

I had such a harty laugh in the middle of the night (I'm LA Lande midnight feasting), when Philip reacted to Naties dress at the Valentine's table

[@charlotteortiz1233]

Everyone looked stunning.

[@chrisbrookesphotography]

Glad one of my pictures was useful to you, thank you!

[@stinki97128]

I luv it when Selmar gets so excited and the cake is a masterpiece!

[@richardcully4869]

Selmar, heart balloons aloft greeting us with "Happy Halloween!" made me hoot with laughter, another lovely episode, Steph, can you post the cake recipe? it looked terrific!

[@gailcraig4495]

The cake looked like one of those flourless tortes....dense & fudgy.

[@willowgb]

Tacos! So did we! we had tostada bowls for our Galentines day!! Grandma, aunt, cousin, and mom! It was oh-so messy and oh-so delicious!

[@lourdescastillo841]

I really like this Video. I really enjoy when Phillips said oh Nadi. It was funny and she look Gorgeous.

[@anthonylewischurchill-theg233]

Wow, that cake is stunning Guys. Happy Valentines