Château du Vau

Lanky, relaxed philosopher Bruno has turned his family château into a delightful, harmonious refuge for the world-weary traveller. The cosy, book-lined, deep-chaired sitting room is a place where you find yourself irresistibly drawn into long conversations about music, yoga, art… The sunny breakfast room is charming with its stone-coloured tiles and pretty fabrics – linger over fresh croissants from the local bakery, jams, cheeses and fresh fruit.

Generations of sliding children have polished the banisters on the stairs leading to the large, light bedrooms that are beautifully but unfussily decorated – splendid brass bedsteads, Turkish rugs on parquet floors, old family furniture, pictures and memorabilia – the spirit of zen can be felt in the search for pure authenticity.

You’re surrounded by hectares of groomed grounds in this peaceful setting. Hard to imagine that you’re only 15 minutes from the centre of Tours.