Chateau de Bagnols, near Lyon

Location

Imagine escaping to a 13th century chateau in the heart of the Beaujolais countryside, just 17 miles from Lyon. Chateau de Bagnols is the finest chateau hotel in France. Now a member of the von Essen hotel group, it was originally restored by English couple Helen and Paul Hamlyn, who managed to stay true to the medieval feel of the building, which has retained its moat and fortified towers.

Accommodation

Accommodation is in elegant and individual apartments, which boast of lush silks, antique furnishings, authentic 17th century paintings and guilded four-poster beds.

Dining

Fine dining is served in the Michelin-starred Salle des Gardes restaurant or outside on the terrace in the shade of 100-year-old lime trees. The wine list is extensive and the service is second to none.

Facilities and activites

Around the hotel there are cherry orchards, manicured gardens and a sun terrace with views of the surrounding vineyards, forests and green hills of Beaujolais. Hot air ballooning, horse and carriage rides, wine tastings and private picnics are among the activities on offer.

Choose to travel there by plane or train (a gentle journey of just 5 hrs). Hire a car to explore the surrounding countryside and wineries.