Le Domaine de Perches

Sheltered below the country lane, the 17th-century pale-stone, elegant building faces south, revelling in the lush fruitful valley that flows away beyond the garden. Inside are superb high beamed rooms; you’ll find privacy even in the public rooms: club-like morning room, library with a vast classical fireplace, immense white-furnished salon in the former winery – you choose. Or plunge into the pool discreetly sited below the terrace, then sit under a willow by the frog-sung lily pond (maybe your prince will come?). Bedroom moods vary: in the big mushroom-masculine double, glowing antiques and two armchairs; in the suite, a smallish bedroom and a smart sitting room; in the romantic ivory and grey double, a draped bedhead and a clawfoot tub. All are superbly comfortable and have excellent lighting. It is a beautifully kept home where you will find artistic flair, a love of cooking (fresh vegetables in season, local wines) and stimulating company. Monsieur is passionate about architecture and design and his lovingly collected antiques and works of art add sparkle to the sobriety. A place of genuine class.