Chateau de Varenne ★★★★

Set in the verdant and peaceful Rhône Valley, surrounded by 3 hectares of private garden, the magnificent 18th century Chateau de Varenne seeps with luxury and charisma, allowing holidaymakers to journey into the past and appreciate one of the most romantic time periods in France’s illustrious history. With climbing plants covering its stone walls, the classical architecture of this chateau is like something from the setting of a Jane Austen book. Even before you’ve entered the hotel, the cobble pathway, palatial staircase and rose bushes leading to the entrance conjure visions of the many ways you’ll relax at this 18th-century resort.

The sumptuously decorated and spacious Superior Rooms are exactly how you might imagine them from viewing the outside of the hotel. Reflecting its historic and grandiose exterior, each one Chateau de Varenne’s thirteen rooms is deeply unique, showcasing fine traditional designs and classical touches of beauty. Opulent yet refined; our room was filled with plush furnishings, elegant decor and beautiful parquetry. Thick floral drapes graced the windows, and behind them – a stunning view of Mont Ventoux!

Transporting you further into the splendour of an older age is the magnificent hotel grounds. With its bedecked ivy walls, rustic statues and trees that have stood there for centuries – it’s impossible not to become enchanted by Chateau de Varenne’s exemplary maintenance of 18th-century life. It is in these wonderful grounds that I would sit every day, sipping on a glass of refreshing lemonade beneath a dainty parasol, with my books as company. As if this wasn’t sufficient enough luxury to make me feel like a Princess, the outstanding staff ensured I was catered for and pampered at all times – offering drinks, making friendly conversation and divulging excellent advice as to how I could best take advantage of my time in Sauveterre.

Breakfast became a much anticipated pleasure: a cornucopian delight of meats and cheeses, yogurts, pastries, breads, delicious local preserves and local peach juice provided more than adequate fuel for a day of exploration in the surrounding region. That being said, I still managed to build up a ravenous appetite after a day of cycling along the Chateauneuf du Pape vineyards. Fortunately, Chateau de Varenne has an exceptional restaurant – incredible in both its aesthetic design and menu. The most challenging decision I had to make during my stay at Chateau de Varenne came when I had to choose between dining outside, on the sunny patio with flower bouquets on the table and the distant sound of birdsong, or the magically atmospheric inside part of the restaurant. Though there’s little I enjoy more than basking in the French sun, I ultimately dined inside more often than outdoors, simply because of how immeasurably cosy I felt between those stone walls, wooden ceiling and rustic decor. Indeed, I can’t imagine a more enchanting environment in which to enjoy a traditional foie gras dish and juicy glass of red wine.

Chateau de Varenne is the ultimate fairytale hideaway – its magnificent preservation of 18th century architecture, spectacular garden views and award-winning cuisine, there is surely not a more romantic resort in the region. For an authentic chateau experience, and opportunity to enjoy the natural side of France, don’t miss this treat of a hotel.