Château stays in France

Swim with frogs in the freshwater pool, breakfast in the sunshine, play boules by moonlight. Châteaux don't get much more rural

Built in 1518 to gaze across the Loire to Amboise and decorated with discreet elegance and respect for its history. Guests love it

The wow factor is set to eleven at this magnificent château steeped in French history and surrounded by acres of land (and a moat)

In truffle, lavender and olive oil country, a dreamy wine château with terraced gardens, run by hosts whose happiness is infectious

A very special old priory from the late Middle Ages and a separate tower with lush, rambling gardens, sitting in a charming, sleepy village

A lodge and a cottage on an ancient wine estate, thoughtfully and eco-consciously converted with private outdoor spaces and a saltwater pool

Stylish B&B rooms in a peaceful little château, amongst rolling hills, woods and farmland - bikes and boules to borrow, lovely pool to share

An exceptional château in a bucolic setting surrounded by bird-filled woods and overlooking the river, with lovely bedrooms

Open to the public, and stuffed full of Sir Walter Scott’s collections, Abbotsford House & Gardens abut this Borders getaway

The Renard famille share their impressive local knowledge, and make you feel at home and cared for in their charming small hotel

A happy guest told us, ‘A marvellous way to see a beautiful château and this is probably the best that we have stayed in’

Fine Old Master drawings, inspired modern sculptures and wonderful food. A place for lovers of history, art, architecture, and La Rochelle

Hilltop château on the edge of a small village half an hour from Saint-Émilion, with a lovely garden, a swimming pool and two lakes

Sun-dappled walks along the romantic avenues, big bedrooms, breakfasts inside or out, a laid-back atmosphere and great markets nearby

Come for much comfort in both buildings which face each other across the garden, plus a pool, lake, yoga and fitness studios

A pleasure to stay in such a dreamy château surrounded by a beautiful terrace, elegant gardens and parkland, a lake, river and waterfall

A magnificent medieval tower in the grounds of an 18th-century château sitting in a dreamy valley. Come for superb gardens and architecture

Fairytale castle in a tranquil and secluded countryside setting. Classic French cuisine and grand, traditional interiors