Château Cordeillan-Bages ★★★★★

As you swing off the quiet road running into the picturesque village of Bages, and onto the château Cordeillan-Bages’s sweeping driveway, you sense that you are in a special place. The sun pokes its way through the upper branches of the tall trees standing sentry in front of the elegant 17th century façade, illuminating an island of paradise set amongst a sprawling sea of vineyards. The château exists in symbiosis with nature, proudly proclaiming its location between Europe’ largest forest and widest estuary.

As for the building itself, the architecture is as magnificent and classical as you would expect. A central tower rises imposingly above the entrance, the two wings leading off from it forming a courtyard in the centre, home to a simple but pristine garden. The décor throughout is simple, elegant, and timeless. The bedrooms are luminous and spacious, equipped with all the amenities you could want without being overcomplicated; a comfortable space to fall blissfully into a deep sleep after indulging (or overindulging!) at the gourmet restaurant.

If the fields give life to the region, it is the vineyards which give it its character. The Château’s vineyard setting allow them to produce their own wine and the wine cellar here is extensive and mightily impressive. The expert sommeliers choose from this vast selection to marry the delectable cuisine with the perfect glass of wine. It can be hard to enjoy the restaurant’s delights and the perfect wine in moderation, and you could be forgiven for waking up with a slightly sore head in the morning. Fortunately, the château places an emphasis on relaxation and recovery. Whether you prefer a soothing massage in the sauna, sweating off the excesses of the night before in the fitness room or by doing lengths in the 25-metre outdoor pool, the hotel has a variety of facilities to choose from.

All in all, I must say that the Château Cordeillan-Bages, while situated just outside the charming city of Bordeaux, offers the absolute crème de la crème of the French countryside. What is left to say, other than bon voyage and bon appétit!