Chateau Des Briottieres - Champigne, France 

My girlfriend and I stayed here for two nights. We had originally intended to stay just one, but we really liked it and ended up staying longer. The owner and his family were very friendly. I left my watch there when we left - the owner was kind enough to contact me and send it to me - in the U.S. ! Would definitely stay here again.

We were invited by close friends to spend a week in France to celebrate a 'big' birthday. They had visited Chateau des Briottieres and fallen in love with it, so booked it directly with the owner, Francois. The guests, 18 of us in all, arrived in France and, in hired cars, drove to the Chateau. Our first impression, as we drove up the magnificent drive and took in the lake and awesome landscape, was of jaw-dropping incredulity. This fabulous 18th century chateau was exactly as we dreamed it would be, only better. Francois met us personally and took us all to our bedrooms - we stayed in the mighty Chambre de l'Etang - with views on three sides of the parkland and the lake. None of the other bedrooms disappointed either - all very individual and beautifully presented. This chateau was also special because it is the actual family home of Francois, so we were greeted by his wife and children, which made it seem even more special. The house itself has a vast array of antiques, all of which are surrounded by history - there is an interesting story about each and every piece. The grounds also have stables and a swimming pool, although the inclement weather didn't provide us with the opportunity to try it out. Several hardy folk took to the bikes which were on offer and cycled around the picturesque countryside. Champigne is a charming little town, which opens its heart and people to visitors, as it is off the 'normal' tourist route. We spent a lovely week chez Francois, and we hope to return with our own families, to treat them to a little Loire luxury - and we would encourage anyone who reads this to do the same.