Chateau La Thuiliere

Set in a 17 acre estate of wood and parklands, running along the Isle river- just over an hour from Bordeaux.

This gorgeous hotel was built as a grand summer residence, and in keeping with the historic essence, interior designer, Llorens Padrell, has ensured the soul of the chateau remains. A heady mix of tradition and trend, explore the intense details of the staircases, with carved griffons on the banisters, and the stained-glass windows, depicting the original owner decked heroically in armour.  In the seven king-sized bedrooms, think sumptuous furniture, bold interiors and sleek en suite bathrooms.

Set in an idyllic spot where the typical cuisine of Dordogne (truffles, duck and foie gras) meets the world’s finest wine region, Bordeaux, expect to be blown away during your stay. With the hotel owners originally from Barcelona, the menu is a magnificent twist on local ingredients and Hispanic style. Normally served at the communal dining room table, dine on Arcachon oysters with ginger and lemon, Ratte Parmatier with eggs from the hotel’s chickens, black mushroom and Monbazillac wine, and Guanaja chocolate cake with rosemary and mint ice cream, toffee and crumble.

Rent bikes and cycle round the private park, put on your walking boots and ramble over the rolling vineyards in the heart of French wine country, read a book in the garden hammock overlooking the swimming pool, or take a canoe down the Dordogne river. Whatever your plans, make sure they include a visit to the stunning Saint Emilion and Sauternes wine estates.