Le Prieure

Come for complete peace in this green, undulating countryside with forests lining the stream which winds along the valley floor – walks will be sublime in the surrounding château parkland and there is an abundance of wildlife, especially birds. Choose to stay in the Priory or the Tower and larger parties can take both for happy gatherings of friends and family. Lazy summer days can be spent in the gardens or by the pool.

Neither kitchen is huge but they are both packed with much equipment (Paula is a chef and sometimes offers meals) and you are left a delicious homemade lemon meringue cake and a bottle of fizz along with all the basics for cooking. Both gardens have braziers, lots of chairs and tables and you’re surrounded by high stone walls, fruit trees and colourful herbaceous borders. Bedrooms are filled with good fabrics and antiques; all have lovely views.

Visit châteaux, wineries and wonderful food markets.