Wander among fruit trees in Stephane’s tranquil walled garden; hard to believe that Paris is just 30 minutes by train. Wake to birdsong, and fabulous views of ancient Rochefort and the forest beyond. Breakfast is a convivial delight – feast on pancakes, pastries and honey (fresh from their own hives) in the elegant sitting room. Stylish, brightly painted doubles and a spacious family suite are split between the 18th-century house and a blue-shuttered cottage, or seek privacy in an extra room in the garden with its own kitchen: DIY breakfast, or sneak some from the house. Stroll to the unspoilt village for divine pastries.
Delightful! Stephane is the perfect host – charming, intelligent, accommodating even when 5 soaking wet cyclists turned up on his doorstep and tramped through the house. We raided the bakery next door ('divine' is correct) and tucked into a simple quiche dinner (but there are restaurants in this quaint little village). The new studio in the garden is full of funky design features, and the rooms upstairs are equally good for families or big lumping bikers. I thoroughly recommend it.