Les Portes Bleues

An 1860 three-storey house with fine proportions, tall windows and lots of architectural features. You’ll feel right at home and if you’re not going out you’re free to use the cosy sitting room with its chintzy sofas or set up a board game in the dining room. Have a picnic here or in the sunny courtyard if you can’t be bothered to eat out, or check whether it’s possible to have delicious French cuisine (usually four courses) cooked for you.

Bedrooms are on the first floor and all are lovely spaces to spend time in, filled with interesting furniture and art, pretty fabrics, inviting beds and very attractive en suite bathrooms. Wake to a sociable breakfast at one big table – organic juice and fruit, freshly baked pastries and bread from the local bakery, tasty jams and good coffee.

You’re in the centre of Aÿ, birthplace of champagne (the house of Bollinger is 100m down the road) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste, tour, explore.