Shutterstock – Champs-Elysees at night
France remains one of the world’s top tourist destinations. With its unparalleled beauty, world-class gastronomy, and captivating culture, it’s a country that can’t be missed. France is open for international visitors, and from late 2022 travelers will be able to enter the country using the ETIAS France.
True to its sophisticated nature, France has a string of luxury hotels that showcase the best of French culture and heritage. Whether you’re heading straight to the glitz of Paris, or winding your way through the countryside, you’ll never be short of high-end, refined places to stay.
Lose Yourself in Nature at Le Barn
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If you’ve already meandered through the dazzling streets of Paris, and soaked up the rich Parisian culture, head just outside this landmark city for a luxurious mini-break in nature.
Just a 45-minute drive south of Paris, you’ll find Le Barn Hotel. Nestled in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park, Le Barn is not simply a hotel but a whole experience—boasting a hotel, spa, restaurant, and even its own vegetable garden. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city, a chance to explore nature, or a host of activities to keep you busy—this is the place to visit.
Le Barn
Le Barn has a range of luxury rooms that have all been created with a focus on contemporary style and attention to detail. Choose from classic, superior, or deluxe rooms and suites, depending on your individual needs. You can even make use of Le Vestiare—a cloakroom that allows you to store your belongings between stays, if you wish to make multiple trips.
Bask in true relaxation therapy at the Wellness center, where you’ll find a sauna, Turkish baths (hamman), and outdoor hot tubs—all immersed in the heart of the forest. Float around the trees and let your cares melt away while you enjoy a massage from their expert masseur. Set in a former mill, with views of the forest and horse paddocks, the center gives you a truly authentic spa experience.
Le Barn is also an excellent place for those seeking outdoor activities, whether you’re a horse rider, cyclist, runner, yogi, golfer, hiker, or simply want to be outside in nature, the possibilities are truly endless.
One of the true highlights of Le Barn is its exquisite restaurant—La Serre. Here you’ll experience an immersive culinary experience where the chef cooks openly in front of you, serving you the highest-quality traditional French cuisine. The dishes use solely fresh produce from Le Barn’s own vegetable garden, or from local producers, adapting with each season.
Domaine des Etangs
Domaine des Etangs
In Massignac in southwestern France, you’ll find more breathtaking natural wonders. Perched in a staggering 2,500 acres of pristine forests and lush green fields is the Domaine des Etangs.
The Domaine is a space steeped in French history, stretching all the way back to the 13th century, when knights built the château and surrounding farmhouses to offer shelter to passing travelers. The philosophy of Domaine des Etangs pays homage to its ancient roots of country living by harnessing the connection between nature and humankind.
There is an abundance of luxury accommodation at the Domaine, suiting all styles and needs. Appreciate the rural architecture of former stables at the Longère, the impressive towers of the Château, or the quaintness of the Farmhouse Cottages. Each space maintains the Domaine’s ideology of celebrating the beauty of nature, while ensuring guests experience a truly authentic stay.
A treasured jewel of the Domaine des Etangs is the Wellness Space, where guests can surrender to the relaxing power of the elements. The space is centered around the four elements—earth, air, wind, and fire—with an individual treatment room dedicated to each one. Sit back and relax while you enjoy the Wellness Space’s luxury treatments and massages, all inspired by the stunning views that surround you.
Dining at the Domaine is another deeply engaging experience, where the harmony of nature is celebrated through seasonal dishes and rustic surroundings. Enjoy spectacular views from the sunny terrace, or settle into the comforting indoor space of the Château.
As well as celebrating nature, the Domaine des Etangs also has a strong focus on art and creativity. A short distance from the Château is La Laiterie—an 18th century farm building that has been converted into an art and exhibition space, showcasing temporary exhibitions curated by renowned art experts. The space is also home to 2 libraries—one celebrating books from before 1920, and the other designed as a “library of the future.”
