Château de Castel Novel ★★★★

Let's go to Corrèze, a region that has long been a destination for getting away and enjoying rustic comfort. Normal life deserves exceptional moments, just like those you will experience at the Château de Castel Novel ****. Ten minutes from Brive la Gaillarde, and between Limousin, Périgord and Quercy, this château’s credo suits us down to the ground: “simple luxury”.

The spot was already all the rage at the beginning of the century, when Collette, enchanted by the estate, described it at length in her correspondence to lure her Parisian friends. The fairy-tale château is surrounded by ten hectares of romantic parkland, with large, weeping willow sprinkled lawns, undergrowth, water features and thickets. Though on first sight the place lends itself to daydreams, it is impossible to get bored! You can enjoy rambles on foot or by bicycle, games of tennis and boules, and bathing in the large swimming pool. The hotel can organise other leisure activities for you in the local region, such as horse riding, golf, canoeing and fishing. They can even prepare you a picnic if your adventures keep you out of doors too long. But in your place, we would invariably be back the moment Nicolas Soulié gets into the kitchen!

The Castel Novel **** has everything we love about château style: period stone façades, pointed towers, narrow windows, romantic balconies, majestic staircases and a royal garden. Inside, things are just as princely. The lounges offer period furniture and comfortable armchairs, with works of art on the walls. The stone-walled restaurant retains a rustic touch, and spoils us with innovative dishes. Yes, this historical hotel has left a little room for modernity, to pamper us like modern kings. The generous outdoor swimming pool, modern amenities, up-to-date team and contemporary hotel standards makes for a four star comfort experience.

So, the food! If I say southwest France, what comes to mind? Local, authentic produce of course! Foie gras, lamb, strawberries: local, well-made goodness, excellently prepared by the hotel chef. It is inventive, gourmet, and justly awarded. Nicolas Soulié’s food is served on the terrace or in one of the château’s charming dining rooms, with a large stone fireplace or wood panelling and impressive paintings.

In your bedroom, you will be treated like royalty. Each bedroom has been individually decorated with floral fabrics and antique furniture, respecting both the château feel and your repose. Could château life become your new normality? All bedrooms include chests, television with international channels, air conditioning and free WiFi. The most modern of comforts in a traditional interior, with antique armchairs and period design. And the bathtub: as big as the bed, for twice as much relaxation. You could almost fit the whole royal family in there!

We were sad to leave this royal retreat. But despite the estate’s prestige, the welcome is always friendly. We know we will be just as well received on every visit. “Simple luxury”, you heard it here first!