The most fabulous way to arrive at La Borde is by helicopter. It's also the best way to see the patchwork Burgundy countryside surrounding this exclusive 16th-century walled manor just outside the village of Leugny, Yonne. Cocooned in wide open acres of fragrant gardens, meadows and orchards, it's fairy-tale pretty with buildings festooned with fragrant climbing roses, towers, an orangery and a dovecote. Lazy days are spent around the sun-drenched pool or in the spa, while cosying up with a good book in the shaded porch adorned with period furniture and antique armchairs, is hard to beat. La Borde's five rooms are pure château-chic. They're all about French country-style décor, exposed beams and waiting-to-be-stroked velvets with sink-into beds, and in some, fireplaces and free-standing baths. With so much space and the laid-back pace, La Borde is a place to lose yourself and nowhere more so than in the tranquil arboretum, home to 50 species of tree. To match the area's famous wines, the hotel's fresh French food is created from fruit, veg and herbs grown in the house's very own organic gardens. Châteaux, vineyards and nature parks are all waiting to be explored nearby but you might find yourself so relaxed that even an unhurried spot of sightseeing feels like too much effort.

• published: 19 May 2014
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