Pays de la Loire

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Ping Pong Table

Entertainment

Bathrobes

Bathtub

Hair Dryer

Toiletries

Bathroom

Cooking Essentials

Kettle

Kitchen

Kitchen Utensils

Mini Bar

Oven

Stove

Kitchen & Dining

Iron

Ironing Board

Washing Machine

Bedroom & Laundry

Heated Pool

Outdoor Pool

Private Pool

Exercise Equipment

Swimming Pool

Tennis Court

Wellness & Fitness

Desk

Laptop Friendly Workspace

Wi-fi

Internet & Office

Fireplace

Heating & Cooling

Free Parking On Premises

Parking Available

Parking & Access

Barbeque

Garden

Outdoor Seating

Patio / Terrace

Sun Loungers / Beach Chairs

Sun Umbrellas

Outdoor

Meeting / Conference Rooms

Nice to haves

Pets Allowed

Pets

Child Friendly

Fire Extinguisher

First Aid Kit

Safe

Smoke Detector

Other

If you’ve always dreamt of staying somewhere steeped in rich history and surrounded by quiet countryside, this is the home for you. After all, it doesn’t get much grander than a 15th-century castle set within fifteen hectares of parkland. Located in the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this home is the perfect base for large group get-togethers, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply holidaying with family and friends. The beauty of the home aside, you can also enjoy the heated outdoor swimming pool, pétanque, tennis court, and private bar, whip up a culinary delight in the professional kitchen or take a hike from the doorstep – there’s something for everyone here. 

Loire Valley Delight

Library of Books

Board Games

Games Room

Freezer

Toaster

Fridge

Coffee Maker

Cot / Crib

Hangers

Cleaning Products

Drying Rack

Extra Pillows and Blankets

Central Heating

Free Parking On Street

Private Entrance

Balcony

Outdoor Fireplace / Firepit

Welcome Hamper

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Converted from a fourteenth-century nunnery in a village near the historic town of Poitiers, The Priory Tower is surrounded by valleys, ponds, and woods in all directions. It’s a quiet area, with a peace disturbed only by the occasional church bells, or birdsong. The local markets around here are overflowing with produce (this part of France remains an agricultural centre), and if you want to get away from civilisation, there are all manner of trails, lakes and rivers to explore. As a home, The Priory Tower feels like a part of France that got left in the past, away from the bustle and stress of modern life, and that’s quite a special feeling.


The Priory Tower

Home Cinema Setup

DVD Player

DVD Library

Dishwasher

Microwave

Pod Coffee Machine

Bicycles

Self Check-in / Check-out

Wheelchair Access

Fenced Property

If your romantic escape plan involves sitting by a grand piano with a rare book in hand, surrounded by art and antique treasure somewhere in lush acres of the Loire countryside, Hardbound Volumes can top that up with a lot more. The 15th century home is a treasure chest, complete with a massive log fireplace, exquisite oil paintings and rich Chinese rugs, to name a few. The decadent interiors open up to quiet terraces and lawns that are perfect for barbecue sessions under the stars. Far from the the crowds, bike over to Varennes-sur-Loire for your breakfast croissant and go fishing at the Loire on warm afternoons. Surrounded by a golf course, an opera, a theatre and the Equestrian Cadre Noire, soak up the cultural goodness here. The host knows it's quite the task choosing a place for dinner so we suggest you allow them to serve you tailored recommendations.

Hardbound Volumes

Netflix

Satellite / Cable TV

Streaming Services

Private Washing Machine

Private Parking

Free Parking

Single-Level Home

Paid Parking On Street

Overlooking the Mayenne River, this newly renovated apartment is the perfect setting for a group getaway to the charming town of Laval. Don’t let the understated exterior here fool you – inside is a modern home cloaked in warm, wooden tones and fully equipped with all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay in the heart of western France. Sit back and relax in the simple but stylish living area, catch up on some work at the dining room table, or step outside and soak up views of the river from your own private terrace. Whatever you fancy, this place has got you covered. 

When it’s time to explore, you’ll find yourself within easy reach of all the town’s major attractions so why not make the most of it? Go for a picnic in Perrine Garden, soak up some local history at Château de Laval, or treat yourself to a gentle stroll along the river before heading home for a relaxing evening in with the rest of your entourage. We don’t know about you, but we can’t think of a better way to spend the day. 

Rousseau's Sanctuary

High Chair

Hammock

Overlooking the Loire river and sitting in the heart of Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, this home's spot on the map is perfect for those in thrall to the French countryside and the large plant-filled garden – almost as large as the house itself – gives you plenty of space and seating to bask in this picturesque scenery.

There's something equally charming about the home's interior, with a range of design influences on display, from rustic wooden ceiling beams and the period fireplace to bursts of bold floral wallpaper and mid-century-inspired furnishings. Given the small guest count, the kitchen is perhaps more generously sized than you might have anticipated and finished off with pretty tiles, too.

When it comes to seeing a little more of the bucolic region, there are ample wine estates and castles to discover, as well as two characterful towns that are easily reached by car. The nearest, Saumur, is the French capital of horses with exhibits and equestrian shows to catch, while Angers is slightly further away and is renowned for its medieval architecture and cultural institutions.

Lifeblood of the Valley

This pretty half-timbered house from the 17th century is located right in the heart of the fairytale-esque Breton town of Dinan and comfortably accommodates up to four guests in its quirky, lovingly-decorated interior that boast its own unique character. 

With a charming blend of original wood features, painted frescos, eye-catching mosaic tiles, and picture frame windows that let in plenty of light, the home feels like it has been lifted from the pages of a Brothers Grimm fairytale. Open up the windows on the ground floor and be greeted by the gentle hum of everyday French village life beyond its pane, allowing the sunlight to stream in whilst you linger over breakfast or a book. 

Step over the threshold and you'll find yourself in the midst of things here in Dinan, with everything from boulangeries to historical attractions right on your doorstep, whilst the coast and its iconic towns such as Saint-Malo are just a short drive away.

The Fairytale Townhouse

Shared Washing Machine

Perfect for a couple, this contemporary oasis in Lanvallay is a real gem. Spend mornings sipping freshly-brewed coffee in the shared garden with today’s paper, afternoons reclining on the plump blue sofa sipping a glass of Muscadet, and evenings in the sleek kitchen rustling up a regional cheese plate – either way, this elegant home is a welcoming space to spend time in.

Inside, there are contemporary designs and a stunning scenic feature wall that creates a sense of calm. It’s a bright and inviting space to unwind after a day strolling the cobbled streets and exploring the 14th-century Dinan Castle, a short drive away. 

Soak up the Brittany culture in Dinan with a tour of the medieval half-timbered houses, a visit to the 15th-century artillery tower of Tour du Coëtquen, and an authentic dinner of pork rillettes at a family-owned bistrot. As evening descends, amble along The Rance River with a sweet chantilly crêpe in hand. 

Scenic & Serene

Rain Shower

This adorable home has everything to suggest it's tucked away in a French village, but it's in the heart of cosmopolitan Rennes. Even the enchanting courtyard will have you convinced you've stepped into a storybook world, not at the foot of St. Peter's Cathedral.

When stepping into this secret garden courtyard, we're practically waiting for Gaston and the townspeople to burst out of the windows and break into song. The sprawling foliage and quaint buildings provide a place where time stands still and you can break away from the thoughts of daily life. First impressions count, and this one will be lasting. 

Inside the cosy home, the owner has thoughtfully cloaked the interior in a modern preference for mid-century design, with a warm-toned colour palette that is vibrant yet soothing. And with plenty of ambience-setting lighting, this home exudes a comforting homeliness. We imagine you'll want to spend a lot of your time soaking up the place – preparing dinner in the well-equipped kitchen to be enjoyed around the beautiful dining table, before getting snug on the plush sofas with a warming hot chocolate beneath the ceiling's original beams. 

While it's easy to spend a lot of time in this calming cottage, it's only right to explore when you're in such a fantastic location. Whether you want to see the city on foot, by bike, by bus, or by metro, it's all readily available here. You're in the heart of Rennes' historical centre, away from the hustle and bustle but close to its charming cobbled streets and historical sights. 

Belle's Chaumière

Smart TV

Dryer

Arrive at this medieval chateau in Charente and feel swept by its Old World charm. With careful consideration for modern conveniences, it has everything a large group of multiple generations needs to enjoy a rejuvenating stay. Let the kids splash in the pool while you wait for a homemade breakfast. This home is set in the middle of a park with a private lake nestled between ancient trees. Spend days outdoors and head into the nearby Poitiers for the pain du jour. If you’re up for traveling a bit further afield, go on a wine tasting in the Loire Valley or take the whole family air-ballooning above the Charente River. Return home to a chef-made meal on the al fresco dining terrace. Rumour has it this house was built in the 19th century for a famous dressmaker.

Courturier’s Castle

With an authentic French country-chic feel expertly coupled with all the contemporary mod-cons you would expect, this gorgeous gîte provides you with the perfect base from which to set out and explore the many delights of its picturesque surroundings. 

Nestled in the rolling countryside of Mortagne-sur-Sèvre and boasting a large, south-facing garden complete with gently bubbling brook running through it, the outdoor areas of this home strongly influence its interiors – which themselves exude the rustic old-world charm and light-dappled cosiness typical of rural France.

Whether it's your first cup of coffee out on the terrace in the morning, or a flavourful sip of wine overlooking the water as dinner simmers away in the kitchen, this home invites you to drink in everything which makes this area and the way of life it fosters so unique.

Stony Brook Style

Projector

Sound System

Heated Towel Rail

Blender

Private Dryer

Buzzer / Wireless Intercom

Garden Games

Access to Beach

Beautifully modernised and an architectural dream, this home will be the backdrop to a memorable stay. Nature is brought indoors tastefully through materials and textures, reminiscent of the stunning surrounding garden and beach on your doorstep. Downstairs is open plan and flooded with light – the ideal space for entertaining a large gathering of loved ones. Towering skylights offer a peak at the stars as you relax in front of the log burner on those cooler evenings. Each bedroom is clean and modern with a soft chalk colour palette, tastefully breaking up the serenity of white. We love how each room has a beam of French sunlight creating stunning shadow patterns through the unique windows. 

During summer, enjoy breakfast alfresco on your classic wooden terrace. The deck chairs are tucked around the corner to pop your feet up if you fancy a slower morning, feeling the gentle breeze on your face. Residing moments away from the glistening coastline means all the seaside entertainment is at your fingertips. You won’t need to leave your garden to have a memorable afternoon, however, with a ping pong table and other activities at home to enjoy. Pour yourself a glass of fine French wine, fire up the barbecue and you'll be in for a wonderful stay. 

Oculus & Light

Pool / Snooker Table

Piano

Baby Bath

Bread Maker

Black-Out Blinds

Beach Essentials

In a rural village in one of the sunniest regions of France, tucked next to a historic church lies a medieval priory, converted from a Manor house in the fourteenth century to a truly magical home. The interiors are the highest quality and feel both historic and luxurious, while outside picturesque gardens are surrounded by an original stone wall. The pool looks out over unbeatable vistas of the surrounding hills. The host can even arrange al fresco evening meals on the terrace, if that should take your fancy. There's also an abundance of walks on and around the property to uncover, as well as multiple local vineyards, historic villages and countryside visits well within reach.

Stone and English Roses

Wine Cooler

We can easily see why Layers Upon Layers was chosen as one of the best homes for breaks in France in 2016 — it's typical French countryside home with oodles of charm and plenty of amenities that will help you make lifelong memories. The interior has been furnished with gorgeous furniture that give it a rather retro-rustic atmosphere, and the host is keen on restoring period features, so that you can immerse yourself into the spirit of rural France. Meneac is far from a ghost town even outside of the tourist season, making it a great destination year-round, but there are plenty of interesting villages and castles to explore in the area. When you've had your fill of sights for the day, return to your holiday residence and try out a new recipe, or get the charcoal barbecue going in the garden. After a nice meal, treat yourself to some local wine and organise a movie night with the help of the big flat-screen TV that's equipped with Freeview. 

Layers Upon Layers

Hot Tub

Sauna

If your perfect holiday consists of a mixture of eighteenth-century aesthetics and twenty-first-century luxuries, then a home like Cocktails & Peacocks is the way to go. This big and extravagant mansion is prefect if you're trying to accommodate a large family or a group of friends around an event or simply to explore the joyous sights of the Loire Valley. Winos among you will be glad to hear that some of the finest vineyards in the area are a mere hour's drive from here and we hope you'll go one few tasting trips while you're in the area. When you're not exploring the locale, chill in the private pool or de-stress in the eight-seater jacuzzi. If neither of these two options are hot enough for you, hit the sauna. Every single room is regal and furnished with antiques, which will make every moment spent here special — especially the meals you'll share in the baroque-inspired dining room. On dreamy afternoons, walk around the gardens and make friends with the peacocks, then play a a game of billiards accompanied by the sweet sound of a piano.

Cocktails & Peacocks

A stone's throw from Rennes' must-see sites – such as the Place des Lices, Cathédrale Saint-Pierre and La Vilaine, just to name a few – this cosy apartment is nestled in a prime spot for exploring. Start your day with a wander through the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes, then dig into an alfresco lunch at the city's array of delicious eateries. Come evening, don your fanciest outfit and enjoy a night at the opera or for something a bit more low-key, pack a picnic and watch the sunset in Parc du Thabor.

When you're not out and about, we think this flat is a fantastic place to kick back and unwind. The sleek and simple design is a calming respite from the hustle and bustle, while features like the knotted wooden beams overhead and decorative mantelpiece add the perfect amount of French charm.

Make yourself comfortable and plop down on the squishy sofa with a glass of French wine in hand, reminiscing about the day's adventures as you plan tomorrow's itinerary. For dinner, the sleek kitchen is well-stocked for serving up scrumptious meals around the stylish island – we suggest cooking a Breton dish like galettes using fresh produce from the Saturday market. With rainfall showers in the glossy bathrooms, sumptuous beds in each bedroom and a light-filled living space ideal for socialising, we think a group of friends or a small family will be more than happy to call this pad home. 

In Our Time

Throws

Once a home for horses, this former stable is perfectly placed for a visit to Rennes. Tucked nicely near Thabor Gardens, it allows you to be close to the city yet far enough away from the hustle and bustle that you can enjoy some much-needed quiet time whenever you retreat back home. 
 
With nods to its history through exposed beams and brickwork, this recently renovated home has been beautifully modernised, while retaining its charm. The sleek, modern kitchen is a delight to cook in, should you decide an evening at home is preferred over dining out. Climb the spiral staircase and you’ll find two comfortable bedrooms to choose from, both of which guarantee a blissful night’s sleep. A fairly neutral palette is broken up throughout the home with pops of colour, giving the whole space a calming, cosy vibe.

Our favourite part of this home is the terrace. Quite the sun trap during the day, it’s a peaceful place to retreat to as evening sets in. Grab yourself a bottle of fine French wine and settle down on the sofas with your loved ones. As night falls and a blanket of stars breaks out above, listen to the quiet chatter of your loved ones and feel yourself relax. This is where memories are made. 

Once Upon a Stable

When we think of elegant countryside living in France, this partially moated 15th-century manoir, set in the centre of 52 acres of stunning parkland and fields, is what we dream of. Spend idyllic days splashing around in the private pool or roaming around the gorgeous grounds. As you'd expect from such a stately home, the interiors are impressive. Think delightful antiques, custom sofas and chairs, Persian carpets, exquisite Chinese porcelains and beautiful oil paintings. We lover the flowers in every room. Gather around the huge working fireplace with a glass of red wine when the air turns chilly.

When you fancy exploring, take the bikes provided out for a ride around the countryside or explore the nearby city of Saumur, twelve kilometres away. Or visit the local village, an eight-minute walk from the house, where you'll find a boulangerie grocery store, newsagents and a service garage, as well as two restaurants and bars. For a game of tennis, there's a court fifteen minutes away or a golf course within half an hour. 


Peacock Butterflies

Stay at this 19th century chateau in the Loire valley for an experience of history and extravagance. Large enough for family gatherings and celebrations with friends, the home is grandiose both inside and out. Built by a nobleman two centuries ago, this chateau has been restored to perfection and the grounds are just as impressive and magnificent in terms of upkeep and scale. Spend days cycling around the property. Let the kids fish in the lake or dip in the pool, and marvel at the animals on site. For the adults, book a tennis lesson or in-house massage in the drawing room and enjoy that French joie de vivre topped off with local food and wine. Look out for shooting stars and promise to all meet again at this property in the future (you wouldn’t be the first). 

The Garden of France

Secured Parking

This modern home blends in beautifully with its surroundings. The natural stone-clad exterior hides a plush interior filled with soft, velvet couches, wooden floors, an open-hearth fireplace and bedrooms that look as if they belong in a boutique hotel. There’s a grand dining table with sumptuous chairs where you can enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared in the slick black-and-white kitchen. Outside, the heated swimming pool and sun deck have views over grassy fields to where the Loire meets the wild Atlantic. The best part is that you’re just 100 metres from the sea and long, lazy days on the beach. On rare cooler evenings, light up the fireplace and settle in for a movie marathon.

Blue Admiral

Lift Access

This bright apartment situated in the centre of Rennes is a comfortable base for a family or a small group of friends visiting the capital of Brittany and wanting to make the most out of their stay. Location is certainly a great convenience here, and the pad itself offers a warm and friendly place to come back to at the end of a long day of exploring. 

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a light-filled open-plan living space, with a comfy sofa inviting you to kick back and relax with a glass of French wine, or cider, and a good movie. You’ll also be able to rustle up light meals in the kitchen and share them with your loved ones at the dining table. There’s also a balcony here, where you can admire city views and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning. 

A night of restful sleep is promised by the three plush bedrooms, and with the sleek bathroom, you’re guaranteed a restful stay here. 

Outside your front door, you’ll be within easy access to the city’s historic landmarks, including the imposing cathedral, as well as numerous shops, restaurants and cafes. 

Keep on Shining 

Cafetiere

Air Conditioning

Courtyard

Found on over 9 hectares of woodland, this 19th-century chateau is your chance to live out your personal fairytale. Start with breakfast in the cave-like, dining room before a long walk in the garden. As you’re out, find a spot for a picnic and pour yourself a cup of coffee from the thermos to enjoy your macaroons with. 

Spend sunny days poolside with the towering, fairytale spire of the chateau in the background. Out here, coincidentally, is where we’d recommend the perfect family photograph. Play table tennis on the lawn or get the group together for a few rounds of croquet. There’s also a pool table if anyone is up for a friendly competition. 

Though the home has been modernised, a lot of the original charm remains. Explore it as you wander from room to room, admiring the chandeliers and ornate furnishings. Sprawl out in the living room and spend hours simply socialising over freshly-baked pastries. 

Host parties in the exclusive cocktail lounge for a bit of glitz and glamour and move outside to stargaze before retiring to the opulent bedrooms. 
The town of Langeais is only minutes away – stroll alongside the Loire River, grab a bite to eat, sit down to admire the peaceful pace and simply appreciate the quiet, fine things in life.

A Fairytale Chateau

Occupying an enviable spot in the heart of Renne’s historic centre, this apartment cleverly combines classic French furniture with original features and licks of contemporary chartreuse coloured paint to create a stylish yet welcoming environment. 

Make yourself at home in the living space – curl up on the orange tartan sofa with a paperback before rustling up Breton cuisine in the fully-equipped kitchen. After a good feasting, stretch your legs with a wander through the city’s charming streets or embark on a sight-seeing adventure. 

The Cathedral Saint-Pierre de Rennes is just footsteps from your doorstep and the Musée de Bretagne is only a short walk away. Pore over works by Picasso, Botticelli and Rubens in the Musée des Beaux-Arts before treating yourself to a glass of wine in a local bar. 

Chartreuse & Brick

Foosball / Table Football

Jacuzzi

Indoor Pool

Parking On Premises

Even though this large home sits in the middle of a golf course in rural Brittany, there's plenty to keep guests occupied even if they're not keen followers of the sport.

Take the wonderful wellness space, for example. Surrounded by large windows that look out to the peaceful grounds, there's both a heated swimming pool and a Jacuzzi to recline in once you've done a length or two. If that sounds a little too sedate, there's a huge range of games, from foosball and ping-pong to a petanque court and an arcade machine on which you'll find over 1500 video games. We're not saying you'll be praying for rainy days, but they won't be the catastrophe they might be at other addresses.

At the same time, the huge garden offers lots of space and equipment for enjoying spells of sunny weather. You can embrace a French tradition on the petanque court, bounce about on the trampoline or do nothing more strenuous than read on the terrace – perhaps with dinner cooking away on the barbecue in the background.

We should also mention that the home – once a farmhouse in a former life – is a pleasing mix of rustic and contemporary aspects, with wooden ceiling beams and a few patches of exposed stonework sitting quite happily alongside stark white walls, bold artwork and a super-sleek minimalist kitchen.

When it comes to seeing a little more of this corner of France, there's a good selection of spots that are a short drive away. The seaside towns of Saint-Malo and Dinard are a quarter of an hour away by car for instance, while both Rennes and Mont Saint Michel take around forty minutes to reach.

A Playful Character

This apartment boasts an exceptional location in the heart of Rennes, on the square facing Saint Pierre Cathedral. Set on the third floor of a beautiful 19th century building complete with stained glass windows, the apartment is full of old world charm. High ceilings, wooden parquet floors, and ornate fireplaces characterise the space, which is bathed in natural light thanks to the tall windows. Each of the bedrooms is tastefully decorated, with comfortable beds and hotel quality sheets. There's a desk in the kids room in case you need to squeeze in some work. Throw open the curtains in the morning to admire the view of the Rennes rooftops and the cathedral, and enjoy coffee and croissants together at the dining table before heading out to explore. 

All of Rennes’ best attractions are within easy walking distance. Get a dose of culture at the Musée des Beaux-Arts before a restorative lunch at one of the local cafes. Spend the afternoon wandering the cobbled streets, admiring the historic timber-framed houses, or stroll along the canal. A day trip to Mont Sant Michel is unmissable – the mesmerising island topped with an abbey is an hour and fifteen minutes away by car. After a day of exploring, settle down in the sanctuary of your living room for a movie night together. 

Saint Pierre

Nestled away in the village of Plumaudan, this classic French home is waiting to welcome you in with open arms. Step inside and your eyes will be drawn to the original features that this home boasts, such as the imposing, grand fireplace and the exposed wooden beams. Sitting alongside the old, you’ll find an inviting chaise sofa, just the place to relax after a long day out exploring the local area. 

Climb the twisting wooden staircase and upstairs, there are two charming bedrooms which promise a peaceful night’s sleep once the day is done. Our favourite spot, though, is the sunny south-facing garden – just the place to start or end your day. So, whether it’s with a coffee first thing as you listen to the backdrop of birdsong, or last thing at night with a glass of fine French wine and some quality time with loved ones, this is a place to be enjoyed. 

The local village of Plumaudan is picturesque and a quiet location to spend your days. If you’re planning to travel further afield, we’d recommend a visit to the mediaeval town of Dinan, just 12 kilometres away, where you can stroll around the port, enjoy a spot of lunch or even rent a boat if a day on the water tickles your fancy. 

Classic Tranquility

Games Console

This lovely and bright home in Rennes is a perfect base for a family or a small group of friends visiting this grand city and looking for a comfy pad from which to explore the many wonders on offer here. Situated in a quiet area, just a short walk from the historic centre, the home offers sweet repose at the end of a long day of exploring. 

We love the light-filled interior, with a stylish living room where you can kick back and relax with a good movie in the company of your loved ones. The place is filled with warmth, thanks to the wooden floors and ceiling, plush furnishings and elegant details. The sleek modern kitchen will inspire you to create delicious feasts with the fresh produce you can pick up at the famous Place des Lices – share your meals at the large dining table or enjoy an alfresco dinner out on the terrace. 

Upstairs, a land of sweet dreams awaits you courtesy of the comfy bedrooms – wake up restored and get ready for another day of la vie en rose. 

Outside you’ll find yourself close to the lovely canal walk, and the impressive Cathedral is just a ten-minute walk away. 

Come Rennes or Shine 

Umbrellas

Sitting within a 100-hectare estate that dates back to the 18th century, this marvellous home was once the residence of an important general during conflicts following the French Revolution. Given this impressive heritage, it's perhaps no surprise to learn that the interior still retains a sense of grandeur. However, don't confuse this with dusty and staid – as the locals might say, there's a joie de vivre to be discovered at the address.

Much of this is down to the interior design, which mixes together antique furnishings, bold print wallpaper and portraits hanging in every room. We love the lavish dining table set under a chandelier, but also appreciate the modern additions as well – we're fairly sure the aforementioned general didn't have the games room to keep him occupied while he was holed up here, but we're willing to stand corrected.

It's a similar story outside. The well-kempt gardens and rosebeds make for a charming backdrop as you stroll about the grounds, but you're also more than welcome to take a dip in the swimming pool or play a match or two of tennis on the private court. There's equipment for badminton or volleyball too if they're more your sport.

There's a lot to discover in the surrounding Vendée, as well. The sweeping beaches on the Pays de la Loire coastline start from as close as 30km away, while galleries and restaurants in the vibrant city of Nantes lie 43km to the north. A little closer to home, the nearest village is 2.5km away and has a pair of bakeries, a supermarket and a restaurant to tide you over.

General Interest

This home is part of a gorgeous 17th-century château that has been brought bang up to date with monochrome, textured furnishings and oh-so-modern open-plan bathrooms. Beautiful as they are, though, the biggest draw is the lush wooded estate with a private hot tub right on the lawn. You’ve also got use of the on-site tennis courts if you wish to host your own Roland Garros. What’s more, you’re in the middle of wine country here, with some of France’s finest reds coming from the nearby monastery of Bourgueil – unusual for a region more known for its dry whites.

Fine Terroir

Shared Pool

This home is a wing within a stunning 13th-century chateau in the glorious Pays de Loire. It’s on the outskirts of the tiny village of Sèvremont so you can walk to a chemist, bakery and supermarket. But you may want to spend most of your time wandering the vast grounds of the chateau, dipping in and out of the shared swimming pool and gathering for lunch on the private terrace. Rooms are decked out as if for nobles of the 17th century with a charming library-like living room featuring a grand piano and a tapestry-lined dining room big enough for banquets. Bedrooms feature four-poster beds and antique bureaus to get a little work done if you need. 

The Belle of the Forest

Desk / Workplace

Sitting within twenty-five acres of verdant grounds in the Vienne region, the manicured lawns and towering turrets of this mighty nineteenth-century chateau look like a real fairytale fantasy.

This impression doesn't change when you go behind the front door. There's a grand total of four reception rooms on the ground floor, all treated to high ceilings, framed artwork and antique furnishings. The dining room is similarly grand, as is the hallway complete with a grand piano.

Out among the vast grounds, there are rose gardens and shady hideaways to discover, as well as a large swimming pool, loungers and a barbecue for when guests have worked up a hunger.

The local area is perfectly peaceful as it is, but there are plenty of local attractions nearby, too. Lencloître is the nearest town, only six minutes' drive away, and has a few restaurants and shops with which to get acquainted. There are also Roman ruins, Abbeys and even larger chateaux to explore in the surrounding Loire Valley, too.

Rural Daydreams

Paid Parking

Set in the historic heart of Dinan, this timeless home puts you in the centre of so many medieval landmarks, such as the St. Catherine Tower and the Château de Dinan. Stroll along these cobbled streets and browse the nearby artisan shops on the Rue du Jerzual. Here, you'll find beauty everywhere you look, so be sure to bring your camera or sketchbook for the incredible architecture that awaits.

From the moment you step inside, you'll see how the traditional wood beams, stone walls, and decorative fireplace honour the remarkable heritage of this 16th-century building. When you wake up from a good night's sleep, come downstairs and turn on your Senseo coffee machine each morning. As you convene at the dining table, nibble on croissants and chat through your daily plans. Later, you'll want to return to this elegant living space and listen to your favourite songs on the hi-fi. Or, how about a friendly chess tournament with your family before bedtime?

Timbered Trove

This Loire manor feels like a slice of Hamptons-style luxury in the middle of the beautiful French countryside. Set on two hectares of private recreational land, this home is perfect for activity-seeking friends and families, with a newly re-done tennis court, pool and games room all available for your own private use. We loved the original stone fireplace - with logs provided for use throughout the year - and the wood burners in multiple rooms, making this as appealing in the winter as it is in summer, when the lavender, roses and lilies are in in full bloom. The nearest village is 4km away, and the closest town - Chinon - is 12km away, so you'll want a car to get to them.

Les Lis Oranges

Fenced Garden

This slice of tropical modernity comes as quite a surprise in a town known for its medieval ramparts and cobbled streets. A timber cabin-style home that wouldn't look out of place in the world's most exotic corners, it's even set in a private garden that's inspired by the jungle. With three bedrooms and a family-friendly open layout, it's stylish, spacious and smart.

Inside, the wood floors and white walls are calm and neutral, with comfy furnishings and lots of house plants. There's a sleek contemporary kitchen with an island where you can sit on the stools and chat as someone rustles up dinner, and both an indoor and an outdoor dining table.

And it's outside where we think you'll be spending most of your time if you're here in the summer months. Step out of your sliding doors and straight onto the deck, partly shaded with a sail over the comfy loungers. And, you guessed it, this place also comes with a private, heated pool. 

Just hanging out here is pretty perfect in our opinion but when you want to head out and explore, the town is less than half an hour away on foot or a five-minute drive. Book a nearby boat trip, visit St Malo or discover some of the sandy beaches on the coast.

 

Tranquility Basecamp

Nintendo Wii

XBox

Situated in a quiet village close to the Brittany coastline, there's an air of nobility to the handsome white facade of this townhouse surrounded by idyllic grounds and this impression continues behind the front door.

High ceilings and tall windows make for palatial proportions in many of the rooms, especially the lavish bedrooms and the living room with its chandelier and vintage-style furnishings. By contrast, other spaces have been modernised, like the chic white kitchen which is plenty large enough for cooking up Breton-inspired feasts.

As well as scoring high in the style stakes, there's plenty to keep guests entertained here. On the top floor, a games room with a pool table and board games is sure to be welcome on rainy afternoons, while the three terraces, large garden and hot tub will all see lots of use when the weather's a little warmer.

In local Muzillac, there's a good choice of restaurants and bars a short walk from the home, while you won't be short of ways to fill a day in the wider area.  Beaches along the Brittany coastline are easily reached in the car, as are Brière Natural Regional Park and the city of Vannes.

A Tale as Old as Time

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