Chateau de Clairesource

Sweep through the magnificent gates and up a drive lined with mature trees. Hugely sophisticated interiors will please aesthetes; there is much comfort, plenty of space and you arrive to home-baked cakes. The enormous suites are on the first floor, one with views over the lake, the other looking over the river and waterfall. Both have their own sitting rooms and sumptuous bathrooms with free-standing tubs and walk-in showers.

Downstairs there are plenty of places to relax with a book, play the piano, discuss your next outing. Start the day with a grand breakfast, in the garden on fine days: yogurts, jams, charcuterie, cheeses, eggs and fresh fruits and bread. At weekends you can also have dinner and Jacques is an accomplished cook serving traditional French cuisine.

Wander through immaculate grounds, doze on a lounger listening to birdsong, gaze at geese on the tranquil lake, allow your earthly cares to disappear for a while.