Château du Gué aux Biches

Your laid-back and generous hosts delight in looking after guests in their grand yet homely château. They’ve poured love and dedication into faithfully restoring it in true Belle Epoque style, matching heritage colours, materials and antique furniture to bring out its rich layers of history. Each opulent room and suite is named after a notable visitor.

Breakfast is a delicious spread, served whenever you fancy, in the lavish dining room under glittering chandeliers. Everywhere you look, there are objets d’art and Danish ceramics, paintings and portraits, a grand piano to tinkle, and your hosts can tell you the story behind it all. Sit and read a book, play cards and chat, watch birds and wildlife in the vast park, walk across manicured lawns and deep into the forest.

It’s an easy cycle into the spa town of Bagnoles for restaurants, cafés and local markets, and there are two Michelin-starred restaurants within 10 miles.