Château de Lalande, Annesse-et-Beaulieu, Dordogne, France
A brilliant balance between tradition and modernity, this labour of love (restored from a ruin by owners Catherine and Yves Staebell) is full of period features, modern amenities and oodles of personality.
And it's all exceptional. Surrounded by trees and a pretty park, there's something for the young and the young at heart: a beautiful outdoor pool with a wisteria-draped, sun-drenched terrace; contemporary outdoor sculptures; a family room in the round château tower (what child wouldn't love that?); a gourmet restaurant; well-being treatments at a nearby spa; and all sorts of outdoor adventures on your doorstep.