Domaine des Hauts de Loire, Onzain, Loire Valley, France
One of the area's more recent additions (1860 rather than Middle Ages), this turreted, ivy-clad hunting lodge's location – near the Wine Trail and 30 minutes from the most-visited castles – makes it a prime spot for indulging in the libations and landscapes of the Loire.
Ponds dotted throughout the unspoilt 200-acre park teem with birdlife, the cooking school spills the secrets of resident chef Remy Giraud's restaurant (proud owner of two Michelin stars for the last 23 years), and a just-added second eatery and SPA by Clarins means even more reasons to visit.