It’s obvious an artist was behind the restoration of this 17th-century Italian manor, surrounded by a 13th-century moat. It took a year for interior designer and Belgian expat, Anne van Hullebus, to restore it from near ruins to an impeccable mansion with a palette of neutrals that’s occasionally punctuated by vibrant swathes of colour from her large-scale abstract paintings and Renaissance-style portraits. The meals are another work of art. Refined takes on local fare are served in gorgeous surroundings – the region’s mild weather permits eating al fresco in the pebbled courtyard most of the year. During mating season, expect to be serenaded by a frenzied frog choir you can take a tour around the moat on Anne's little boat. The place is perfectly situated for exploring the markets in the medieval centers of nearby villages, Rayet , ChâteauRayet , Monpazier , Monflanquin , Cadouin , Villéreal. the Perigord & the valleys from the Lot et Garonne , the vin yards of Bergerac and St-Emillion , Rayet is centrally positioned between Bordeaux and Toulouse , The spring 012 Chateau Rayet - special : 2 nuits for 2 pers. wine and diners incl : 295 € .chateaurayet 0033(0)553367663...plus d'infos