Hidden in 7 hectares of rolling parkland, this chocolate-box chateau in the Dordogne countryside is a cosy oasis of peaceful romance. Hardly surprising, considering its provenance: the original owner built it as a wedding present for his wife in 1889.
The 7-room hotel has held on to its original romanticism and now offers a wonderful escape for couples and foodies drawn by the beautiful landscape and the pretty towns and markets nearby. However, it’s the friendly welcome from hosts Eduard and Jordi that makes the real difference – it’s like being invited to some supremely thoughtful friends’ opulent country retreat.
Rooms: The rooms vary throughout the hotel (larger, château-feel rooms on the first floor, and smaller rooms with great views on the second), but you can be assured of luxury at every turn. Expect Mies van de Rohe Barcelona chairs, sleek beds and gilded antique mirrors, plus homely touches like fresh flowers, free bottled water and Miller Harris bath products. All rooms have kingsize beds, together with little indulgences such as fluffy robes and slippers. This isn’t a place for those who can’t switch off, though, as they’re blissfully free of WiFi.
Food: Delicious fare is available throughout the day, from a fine spread of pastries, yoghurt, bread, ham and cheese in the morning to a rotating 5-course dinner in the evening. For the latter, you can look forward to a sophisticated marriage of flavours which may include scallops in carrot velouté or calamari on rocket pesto with black salt; there’s also a really fantastic wine list, with excellent recommendations from the hosts. For lunch, you can enjoy the Bistro24 brasserie-style menu featuring homemade quiche and other staples – perfect to enjoy on the sunny terrace.
Author’s tip: Bring some nice clothes so you can dress up for dinner – food this good deserves a little effort!
Customer Review: “We had a great three nights in this lovely spot and our hosts could not have been more charming. Highlights: breakfast in the amazing kitchen basement and the delicious evening meal. And the bed was super comfy.”
Mike, United Kingdom (02.10.14)
