Set in 100 acres of meadows and woods, this elegant Château less than 2 hours South West of Paris has been in the family for six centuries. Chateau de La Barre has its own chapel, flower gardens, fountains, pond and is surrounded by 16th century dry moat fortifications,. The Comte and Comtesse, Guy and Marnie de Vanssay will immediately make you feel at home as you join them for drinks in the 18th century Grand Salon with boiseries and ornate chandeliers. Candlelit dinner is served in the Grand Salle à Manger with its massive burnished dresser and exquisite china collection.

Then move on to brandy and coffee in the Salon Rose under ancestral portraits or in the 'Piece à Feu' in front of the huge 14th century fireplace where a game of billiards can be enjoyed under the watchful eyes of the fox terrier, the Weimaraner and Kakou the parrot.

The five magnificent and luxurious en suite guest rooms are gilded with sumptuous fabrics and fine antiques, without compromising on contemporary comforts! Every heirloom tells story, which your hosts will be happy to share.

During the day, simply enjoy relaxed, aristocratic living, or else visit the picturesque villages with their manor houses and XIIth century romanesque churches repleat with frescoes, vineyards or further afield, the famed Loire valley castles. Superb riding and golf in the vicinity.