L'Ecrin de Verdure

A very particular corner of the Loire valley, not far from the fertile river banks yet very different in landscape and geology. You’re near the sleepy farming village of Ligré and beautiful Chinon is just ten minutes in the car. There’s so much to do without budging: play pétanque, swim in the pool, enjoy your own hot tub in Verveine and Rosemary, book a massage or visit the lovely on-site shop. 2CV tours can be arranged to wine and truffle producers.

Your lodge has a good-sized kitchen (the one for two with just a hob, no oven) and are well stocked. If you stay for a week you’ll find a bottle of wine, homemade jam and fresh fruit waiting for you. Eat indoors or out in your own garden at a wooden table, perhaps under a laden fruit tree – it’s all deliciously Instagrammable. Children can romp safely through the wider garden with its hedges and stone walls.

Bedrooms are calm, bathrooms straight out of a country interiors magazine.